Veganism and vegetarianism have increased fivefold in the recent decade. When it comes to veggie things that offer themselves as a meat replacement, we often opt for something easy like a vegan chicken alternative or soy ‘chunks’. Sometimes, tofu - a high-protein vegetarian meal staple - is left on the back burner, mostly because people don’t know what to do with it (apart from your local Chinese takeaway – of course). But now you can make delicious meals from the comfort of your own home with this tofu press.
Tofu is a food made of soybean curd. It's essentially condensed soy milk pressed into solid white blocks in a process quite similar to cheesemaking. Originating in China, it's rather bland in taste. But, if prepared correctly, it can be so flavourful. Its absorbent quality means it can take a soy-chilli marinade up in a snap. Just make sure you press it first.
Best tofu press :
• Most user-friendly tofu press: Tofuture - Tofu Press - Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best plastic-free tofu press: YARKOR Bamboo Tofu Press - Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best tofu press made from sustainable materials: TofuBud Tofu Press - Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best handmade tofu press: Handmade Bamboo Tofu Press - Buy now on Amazon Etsy
Some types of tofu don’t require pressing, but if you’re a fan of shallow-frying in your best frying pan for some crispy tofu goodness, pressing firm tofu is the best way to remove excess moisture. Here is a visual representation of the difference it makes as Meg Sharma, our team’s SEO Executive, presses her tofu using one of the tofu presses listed below.
So, If you are just beginning on your meat-free journey or are a seasoned pro, a tofu press is a must-have kitchen appliance. We have found the best tofu presses available.
Most user-friendly tofu press
Tofuture has designed a unique tofu press that is a really practical way to get the excess water out of your tofu. The unique design allows you to leave your Tofu pressing in the fridge without having to return to it to increase the pressure - it could not be simpler.
Customer review: "Love that this is easy to use and requires minimal effort. Leave it in the fridge for your desired time and it’s ready. No more balancing heavy objects on top to drain my tofu!"
Pros
- Food-grade cheesecloth
- Vegan and Vegetarian Society accreditation
- Easy to clean
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- This is not good for silken tofu
Best plastic-free tofu press
If you'd prefer something with no plastic, why not opt for this sustainable bamboo press, which guarantees quick and restaurant-quality results? It's simple to use, and the design allows the excess water to gather in a tray - so no extra bowls are required.
Customer review: "This is a very good bit of kit, made a big difference with taste and texture of tofu. Easy to use, very easy to clean, highly recommended"
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Plastic-free
Cons
- Screws can be time-consuming
Best tofu press made from sustainable materials
TofuBud's product promises superior efficiency with its well-designed tofu press. Easy to clean and store, this press is unique because you can choose the desired pressure level for firm tofu, extra firm tofu and even gently drain silken tofu - wow! Also, it's made from high quality recyclable, 100 per cent food-grade materials. It's safe for you and your planet.
Customer review: "I make tofu every week now since I bought this. It is very easy and using soya milk from the shop. Two litre of soya milk can produce approximately 450 grams of tofu depending how firm the tofu I'd like to make. This mould can fit all of it, took me one attempt to get it right but extremely good tofu press. It is not cheap but very sturdy and neatly stored when you don't need it in the cupboard."
Pros
- BPA-free
- BPS-free materials
- Removable drainer
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Extra pressure needed
Best stainless steel tofu maker
This tofu press is made of food-grade 304 stainless steel material. The tofu press mould is easy to de-mould. The tofu mould can work as a tofu press to squeeze extra water from the tofu. Tighter tofu will have a better texture and be easier to cook.
Pros
- You can make delicious homemade tofu in just two steps
- Easy to clean
- Can make 500g tofu
Cons
- No in-depth online reviews
Best multi-purpose tofu press
www.myjapanesehome.com
If you're a connoisseur for Japanese culture - or if you just prefer something more traditional and authentic, My Japanese Home has a fantastic catalogue of Japanese furniture, décor and kitchen items. This tofu press is no exception. Crafted from wood, this press is eco-friendly and worth taking a look at.
Customer review: "Happy with the product. It looks fantastic."
Pros
- Can be used for both tofu and rice
- Eco-Friendly
Cons
- Can be tricky to clean
Best handmade tofu press
www.etsy.com
This unique tofu press is carefully handmade using traditional tools and methods in their workshop. The presses are made from bamboo, with stainless steel bolts, washers and wing nuts and finished with a food-safe oil. Each tofu press varies due to oak being very varied. Nevertheless, there's a guarantee that you're supporting a small, sustainable UK business.
Customer review: "Amazing seller needed my item for my partner's birthday and arrive in no time, so happy with the tofu press absolutely gorgeous too! Thank you so much!"
Pros
- Great design
- Easy to store
- Made from bamboo
Cons
- Hand wash only
FAQs
How is tofu made?
Traditionally, tofu is made from dried soybeans that are soaked in water, crushed and boiled. The mixture is then separated into soy 'milk' and pulp/curd. The pulp is drained off and poured into moulds. It can be made into several variations: extra soft (or silken), firm or extra firm – depending on the method.
Silken tofu is used in miso soup and can even be used as an ingredient for a creamy sauce, whereas its firm counterparts are the stars of the stir-fry and scramble.
Check out this video from Heaven Leigh on how to make tofu at home:
Why press your tofu?
It depends on your preference, but if you’re looking for a spring, crispy texture pressing is the right way to go. An advantage of tofu is that it’s so versatile. It can work in most dishes, in multiple cuisines, which is ideal if you’re more adventurous or perhaps even experimental with your cooking.
So, for all the first-timers this Veganuary, you’re most likely going to want a springy and crispy texture that mimics meat for your tasty tofu dish. For that texture, you need to press your tofu to get all of its moisture out. Also, marinating overnight isn’t a bad idea, either.
We’ve gathered the best tofu presses online to get you kitted out for your Veganuary recipes.
Is tofu healthy? Does it contain protein?
Whether made from GMO soybeans or not, tofu is generally considered safe for human consumption. Tofu is high in protein and contains all of the essential amino acids your body needs. It also provides fats, carbs, and a wide variety of vitamins and minerals.
Piper Huxley is a Homes, Garden and Wellness Product Writer for Yours, an all-rounder who will write on anything from décor to wellness. When not scouring the net for the best home bargains, Piper is listening to a musical soundtrack and tending to her houseplants.