Why Freezing Tofu is a Game-Changer (+ Easy Tofu Cutlet Recipe)

Tofu is a staple in many plant-based kitchens, prized for its versatility and ability to soak up flavors. Whether you’re making a stir-fry, a curry, or even a dessert, tofu can be adapted to countless recipes. However, there’s one simple trick that can elevate your tofu game even further: freezing it.

Freezing tofu completely transforms its texture, making it chewier and more absorbent. If you’ve ever wondered how to get restaurant-quality tofu at home, this could be the secret you’re missing.

Let’s dive into the details of how to freeze tofu, the benefits it offers, and some creative ways to use it in your cooking.

Why Freeze Tofu?

When you freeze tofu, the water inside expands and forms ice crystals. As the tofu thaws, these ice crystals melt and leave behind small pockets, resulting in a sponge-like texture. This new texture allows tofu to soak up marinades, broths, and sauces much more effectively than fresh tofu.

Here are the key benefits of freezing tofu:

1. Improved Texture – Frozen and thawed tofu becomes denser and chewier. This texture is especially desirable for dishes where you want a meatier feel, like vegan stir-fries, nuggets, or kebabs.
2. Better Absorption – Because the structure of the tofu becomes more porous, it absorbs marinades and sauces more efficiently, making it more flavorful.
3. Longer Shelf Life – Tofu typically lasts about a week in the fridge. Freezing it extends its life by months, reducing food waste.
4. Convenience – By freezing tofu in advance, you always have a ready-to-use protein option in your freezer, making meal prep quicker and easier.

How to Freeze Tofu

Freezing tofu is incredibly easy and requires minimal effort. Here is a step-by-step guide to ensure the best results:

1. Choose the Right Tofu
You can use any tofu, I’ve had good results with most types, even silken tofu. My favourite is the type you can get in asian supermarkets thats a firm soft/silken tofu. It’s in between silken and firm tofu.

2. Cut or Leave Whole
You can freeze the tofu block as a whole or cut it into cubes or slices. Freezing the tofu in cubes can make it easier to use in recipes later and it will take less time to defrost.

4. Freeze It
Place the tofu in an airtight container or freezer bag.

5. Thaw Before Use
To use frozen tofu, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. For faster thawing, you can use the defrost setting in the microwave or place the tofu in warm water until defrosted. Once thawed, squeeze out any excess liquid.

How to Cook with Frozen Tofu – Tofu Cutlets

Cut the tofu in slices, cubes, depending on how you want to use it. It’s not necessary to pat it dry. Put it in the freezer until completely frozen, it will be yellow, that’s fine. (at least 6 hours)

Defrost it, by leaving it in the fridge util defrosted or for a quicker way, pour hot water on it, or use the microwave settings for defrosting.

For the batter: mix flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder and mixed herbs, then add in milk and mix until the batter is smooth, the consistency should be like a pancake batter

Prepare the breadcrumbs on another plate/bowl, mixing it with salt, pepper, paprika, herbs.

Dip the tofu in the batter, coating it on both sides, then place it in the breadcrumbs mixture and coat it well.

Now it’s ready for frying, or you can cook it in the airfryer or oven. Frying it will give it the crispier texture. Fry it in hot vegetable oil, turning when golden brown.

Frozen Tofu – Other Recipes

You can use defrosted frozen tofu for any recipe. It works particularly well in recipes where you need to marinate it, as it will absorb more of the sauce.

I often just pan fry it with a little oil and season with some soy sauce and that’s it. You can add it to soups, stir fries and more.

I wouldn’t use it in recipes that require blending as the texture there doesn’t matter.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

Please let me know how it turned out! Leave a comment below, give it a rating or share your recreation on Instagram and tag me at  @recipesandplaces or use the hashtag #recipesandplaces

I love to see recreations and share them!

Scrambled Tofu

You can use defrosted frozen tofu to make a delicious tofu scramble with a different texture.

Common Questions About Freezing Tofu

Can you freeze tofu in its packaging?

While it’s possible to freeze tofu directly in its packaging, draining it first yields better results. Packaging often contains excess water, which can make the texture slightly off when thawed.

How long does frozen tofu last?

Frozen tofu can last up to three months if properly stored. For best results, try to use it within this time frame.

Can you refreeze thawed tofu?

It’s not recommended to refreeze tofu once it has been thawed. If you cook it you can freeze it again.

Does freezing tofu change the flavor?

Freezing tofu doesn’t significantly change its flavor. However, it enhances its ability to absorb marinades and seasonings, making it taste better in most recipes and enhancing the texture.

Final Thoughts

Freezing tofu is a game-changer for anyone looking to add more variety and flavor to their plant-based meals. It’s a simple yet effective way to reduce food waste, save time, and enhance the overall eating experience. Next time you pick up tofu at the store, consider freezing a block or two. Your future self (and your taste buds) will thank you!