15 Silken Tofu Recipes (2024)

This collection of Silken Tofu Recipes includes everything from chocolate mousse pie to cream cheese. There are so many delicious recipes that can be created with this versatile vegan food. The options are endless!

Oftentimes, people have told me that they want to like tofu, but they just don’t know what to do with it. Many folks don’t realize that there are different types of tofu that can be used in a variety of dishes. This article, Easy Vegan Tofu Recipes, explains the differences and which recipes work best with each variety.

Contrary to popular belief, tofu is not scary. As a matter of fact, it’s pretty easy to learn How to Cook With Tofu, and it can be made into just about anything. Let me show you what I mean.

What is silken tofu?

There are two main types of tofu–silken and regular. Silken tofu is often called soft tofu or Japanese-style tofu. It has a more delicate texture andwill fall apart if not handled carefully.

This type of tofu is sometimes packaged in aseptic, or shelf-stable, boxes that do not require refrigeration. It is excellent to keep on hand since there is no requirement to use it quickly. It is also packed in very little water and doesn’t need to be drained or pressed for many recipes, unlike regular tofu.

Silken tofu can also be found in the refrigerator section of many grocery stores beside regular firm Chinese-style tofu. Just be sure to read the packages of the cold tofu well and make sure to choose the soft variety for the following recipes.

Both silken and regular tofu can be found in soft, medium, firm, and extra-firm consistencies. They are made with the same ingredients, but they are processed slightly differently and with different amounts of water.

Firm and extra-firm tofu do well in stir-fries and baked tofu, while silken tofu is much softer and is best used in recipes for sauces and creamy desserts.

Is tofu healthy?

Tofu is very healthy and contains protein, iron, fiber, and a host of other antioxidants and phytonutrients. Only 4 ounces of tofu contains as much calcium as one cup of milk. It is relatively low in fat and contains no cholesterol or dairy.

Asian countries that consume the most tofu and soy products traditionally have the lowest rates of cancer and heart disease. Soy has been found to have many nutritional benefits, so we include it as often as possible.

What can you make with silken tofu?

There are so many dishes that can be made with silken tofu. Everything from desserts to sauces and dressings. It has such a soft texture that it lends itself well to creamy recipes.

Desserts

One of my favorite ways to use silken tofu is in desserts. In the list below you’ll find recipes for a few of my favorites. When I take these desserts to social functions, no one ever knows they are made with tofu.

• Tofu Chocolate Pie
• Carrot Cake with Frosting
• Vegan Lime Cake
• Chocolate Mousse
• Fruit Lime Sauce

Dips & salad dressings

Creamy vegan dips are always a great option for using tofu. The tofu provides a lighter, lower-fat option as opposed to traditional dips made with oil and fat.

• French Onion Dip
• Spinach Dip
• Chipotle Dressing
• Ranch Dressing

Condiments

Amazingly, silken tofu can be made into various vegan condiments as well. Check out these delicious options that add so much flavor to other recipes and dishes.

• Vegan Mayo
• Sour Cream
• Cashew Cream Cheese
• Tzatziki Cucumber Sauce

Sides & main dishes

While this category has fewer options, it contains some delicious recipes that incorporate silken tofu into more hearty dishes as an ingredient.

• Mushroom Stroganoff
• Broccoli Salad
• Cream Coleslaw

Be sure to check out mySimple Silken Tofu Recipes pagefor more great ideas!

For those of you new to the whole food plant-based lifestyle, we’ve created a FREE 7-Day Plant-Based Menu Planner to help you get started!

Can I eat silken tofu?

Silken tofu is safe and can be eaten right out of the container, just be sure to drain the water from it first. It has a very bland taste on its own, so it is better when incorporated into recipes like the ones below.

Can silken tofu be cooked?

Since silken tofu doesn’t have to be cooked, it can be served cold, at room temperature, or heated. Season it with a little soy sauce and eat it right out of the container, or drop it into soups like this 20-Minute Miso Soup.

Cooking it in dishes like Tofu Breakfast Scramble and Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry is also a deliciously healthy option.

*Originally published December 13, 2018

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