Many people don’t realize that there are different types of tofu that can be used in a variety of different dishes. Let us show the differences and explore these simple silken tofu recipes.
Oftentimes, people have told me that they want to like tofu, but they just don’t know what to do with it.
Contrary to popular belief, tofu is not scary. As a matter of fact, it’s pretty easy to cook with and can be made into just about anything. Get ready for some amazing vegan tofu recipes!
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.
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What exactly is silken tofu?
Tofu is an Asian food made from soybeans. Production involves soaking soybeans in water and creating soy milk. Then the milk has to be curdled using a substance such as calcium sulfate or lemon juice.
From there, curds are separated from the whey and usually packaged in block form. It is sold in a variety of options, from soft to extra firm, and they differ mainly in the amount of water retained.
There are two main types of tofu–silken and regular. Silken tofu is often called Japanese-style tofu, as well as soft or silk. It has a more delicate texture and will 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 great 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.
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.
What can silken tofu be used for?
There are so many dishes that can be made with silken tofu. Everything from desserts to sauces and frostings.
Desserts
One of my favorite ways to use silken tofu is in desserts. In the list below you’ll find chocolate mousse, no-bake pie, and even carrot cake frosting.
Dips
Vegan dips are always a great option for using tofu. A couple of my favorites–French onion dip and spinach dip–can be found below.
Sauces & condinments
Amazingly, silken tofu can be make into many different vegan sauces including mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch dressing, chipotle dressing, and more. You’ll find these recipes included in my list of favorites.
Sides & main dishes
While this category has fewer options, it contains some delicious alternatives like vegan mushroom stroganoff and and amazingly simple coleslaw recipes.
What followers are saying about silken tofu recipes
I made 3 recipes so far and loved all of them. Tried the chocolate pie, the fruit skewers with Key Lime Sauce, and the mushroom stroganoff. All were well received by my eaters.” –Lu-Anne
Be sure to check out my Simple Silken Tofu Recipes page for more great ideas!
*Originally published December 13, 2018
Simple Silken Tofu Recipes
Let us inspire you with a few of our favorite silken tofu recipes that are so delicious your family won't even realize they are eating it!
I am from the Carolina's where potato salad, cole slaw, and tomato sandwiches are necessary meal staples. This was a real issue for me after switching to a plant-based lifestyle, because you know what all these foods require right? Mayonnaise!
This vegan chocolate mousse can be made in less than 15 minutes flat, with only 4 ingredients that you're likely to already have on-hand. And it's so unbelievably creamy and sweet!
Incredibly moist and packed with grated carrots, this secretly healthier version of Vegan Carrot Cake guarantees you will never miss the extra calories.
This smoky, savory, and creamy vegan chipotle sauce is the perfect match for bean burgers, veggie hoagies, baked fries, and SO MUCH MORE!
This lime fruit sauce is bursting with flavor and perfectly delicious on fresh fruit, salads, and anything else you can think of.
Easy vegan ranch dressing recipe. Creamy and cool, this is an excellent salad dressing or dip for piles of veggies!
This vegan chocolate pie recipe can be made in less than 15 minutes flat, with only 5 ingredients that you're likely to already have on-hand. And it's so unbelievably creamy and sweet!
You know how you thought French onion dip was out of your life forever? Well, think again! This version is not only vegan, but also low-fat. Caramelized onions are what gives this dip the sweetest flavor.
This creamy vegan stroganoff has a savory mushroom flavor that will remind you of the rich and scrumptious stroganoff recipes you grew up with. Now satisfy your pasta cravings without the guilt!
This vegan spinach dip recipe can be made in minutes and used as a dip with fresh vegetables or served on crusty bread or crackers.
I was skeptical about dairy-free sour cream because I had always loved the dairy-version, but this tofu vegan sour cream recipe is surprisingly delicious! Creamy and tangy wonderfulness!
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Cher
Tuesday 10th of July 2018
These are under the article for recipes made with silken tofu, but the key lime sauce recipe says use light firm tofu. Please clarify for me. Thank you!
EatPlant-Based.com
Tuesday 10th of July 2018
Hi Cher, yes, either light firm or silken tofu will work well with this recipe. Enjoy!
Kate
Tuesday 10th of July 2018
Thank you for the clear explanation about the differences with tofu!
EatPlant-Based.com
Tuesday 10th of July 2018
You're welcome, and I'm so glad it was helpful.