Tofu Cheese: A Simple, Tasty Guide

Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes. It is a great source of protein and calcium and is often used as a meat substitute. Tofu can be cooked in a variety of ways, including frying, grilling, and blending into a cream cheese. In this article, we will explore the different ways to cook tofu in the style of cheese, including grilled cheese tofu, tofu cream cheese, and tofu feta. We will also provide tips and tricks for getting the perfect texture and flavour.

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Choosing the right tofu

Firmness: For tofu cheese, it is generally recommended to use firm or super-firm tofu. Firmer tofu has a lower water content, which allows it to crumble more easily and creates a texture similar to crumbly cheeses like feta. If you can't find super-firm tofu, you can increase the firmness of your tofu by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and pressing it under a heavy weight for 30 minutes to remove excess water.

Type: There are various types of tofu available, including silken, soft, medium, and firm. For tofu cheese, it is best to avoid silken and soft tofu as they have a higher water content and a smoother texture that may not crumble as effectively. Medium or firm tofu is ideal, but if you can only find soft tofu, you can lightly press it to remove some of the water before using it.

Coagulant: The type of coagulant used in the tofu production process can affect its firmness and texture. Traditional coagulants include calcium sulfate, magnesium chloride, and nigari (sea salt). Each coagulant will give the tofu a slightly different texture, so choosing the right one can depend on personal preference and the desired final product.

Freshness: Whenever possible, choose fresh tofu that is free of any discolouration or off-odours. Check the package's "best before" date to ensure you're using tofu in its prime. Fresher tofu will have a milder flavour and will be easier to work with.

Preparation: Depending on your recipe, you may need to press or crumble your tofu. Some recipes call for wrapping the tofu in a towel and pressing it under a weight to remove excess water, which can help create a firmer texture. Other recipes might require you to crumble the tofu with your hands or a fork to achieve a crumbly cheese-like consistency.

By considering these factors and selecting the right tofu for your needs, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious and successful tofu cheese.

Fermenting with miso paste

Tofu is a great base for vegan cheese, especially if you have a nut allergy or are looking for a less expensive option. It is also super easy to make.

Preparation

First, press the tofu for about two hours. You can do this by wrapping the tofu in a non-fluffy tea towel and placing it on a plate to catch any liquid. Place a heavy weight on top of the wrapped tofu to press out the liquid.

Fermentation

Next, mix the miso paste with vinegar and sugar in a fermentation container. You can also add other ingredients such as cayenne, lemon, maple syrup, or vinegar to add depth to the flavour. Coat the entire block of tofu with the miso paste. The tofu should be placed in an airtight container that is slightly larger than the tofu.

Fermentation Time

The length of fermentation will depend on the consistency you want. Tofu that has been left to ferment for less than a week will be quite firm, while tofu that has been left for a month will be softer and creamier.

Storage

After fermentation, unwrap your "cheese" and compost the cheesecloth. Store the tofu cheese in the refrigerator in a clean, lidded container.

Grilled cheese tofu

Ingredients and Preparation:

For this recipe, you will need firm or super-firm tofu. If you can't find super-firm tofu, you can press the block of firm tofu under a heavy weight for 30 minutes to remove excess water and achieve a firmer texture. You will also need a fry pan, a grill, and some oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Slicing and Marinating the Tofu:

Slice the tofu block into slabs or cubes, depending on your preferred shape. You can marinate the tofu slabs or cubes in a mixture of your choice. Some options include a thin layer of miso paste, extra virgin olive oil, spring onions, cumin seeds, ginger, or fresh herbs. Ensure the tofu is well-coated and let it sit for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator for the flavours to meld.

Grilling the Tofu:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or use a cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the marinated tofu on the grill and cook for several minutes on each side until grill marks appear and the tofu is slightly charred and crispy. Be careful not to overcook the tofu, as it can become rubbery.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and toppings to find your favourite combination. You can also try adding a fried egg on top or serving it with a variety of fresh or cooked vegetables, such as spinach or sauerkraut.

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Using tofu cream cheese as a dip

Tofu cream cheese is a versatile vegan condiment that can be used as a dip, spread, or sauce. It is easy to make and can be customised with various mix-ins and flavour boosters. Here are some tips and ideas for using tofu cream cheese as a dip:

Preparation

To make tofu cream cheese, you will need a food processor or blender, and ideally, extra-firm tofu. Silken tofu will be too liquid, and even firm tofu may be too soft. Pressing the tofu gently before blending can help improve the texture. However, pressing is not necessary for this recipe.

Flavourings

Nutritional yeast, salt, and lemon juice create a "cheesy" flavour. You can also add herbs, onions, fruit, or nuts to boost the flavour. For a sweeter cream cheese, add fresh strawberries, pecans, and maple syrup. For a savoury dip, blend in garlic, scallions, or dill.

Mix-ins

Tofu cream cheese can be mixed with pre-cooked spinach, diced artichokes, pickled jalapenos, onion powder, garlic powder, and/or fresh dill. For a thinner texture, add a scoop of vegan mayo or yoghurt.

Serving suggestions

As a dip, tofu cream cheese can be served with sweet treats or savoury options. For a pseudo-stuffed celery experience, one suggestion is to dip celery sticks into the cream cheese mixed with chopped black olives. Another option is to serve it with toasted bread, lightly oiled and rubbed with garlic, similar to Italian bruschetta.

Adding flavour to tofu cream cheese

Tofu cream cheese is a great vegan alternative to regular cream cheese. It is easy to make and can be used in a variety of dishes, including bagels, toast, and pasta. The basic recipe calls for a brick of tofu and a handful of plant-based ingredients, which are blended together in a food processor to create a soft and creamy spread.

To add flavour to your tofu cream cheese, there are several options to consider. Firstly, you can include herbs such as dill, scallions, or garlic. These ingredients not only add flavour but also provide a savoury and tangy twist to your cream cheese. Additionally, you can experiment with fruits like strawberries, which can be mashed and mixed with powdered sugar for a sweet and creamy spread.

Another option is to incorporate spices and condiments. Sun-dried tomatoes, for example, can add a savoury and tangy element to your cream cheese. If you're feeling adventurous, try using umeboshi plum vinegar, a specialty condiment that lends an unmistakably tangy flavour to the cream cheese. You can also include nutritional yeast, which is a plant-based ingredient that creates a "cheesy" flavour profile.

For a more subtle approach, consider adding lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to your tofu cream cheese. These ingredients provide a classic tangy flavour while also contributing a subtle sweetness. Additionally, coconut oil is a useful addition, as it adds richness and helps the cream cheese firm up in the fridge.

Lastly, don't underestimate the importance of salt. While it may seem basic, salt plays a crucial role in rounding out the flavours and enhancing the overall taste of your tofu cream cheese. Experiment with different types of salt, such as fine sea salt, to find the one that best suits your preferences.

Frequently asked questions