Tofu is super versatile and a real sponge for flavor. You can pretty much transform it into anything, from a tofu scramble to a mouth-watering curry. Even though some people are a bit turned off by its texture, there are many ways to change it.

You can press tofu to squeeze out more liquid so that it soaks up the flavor and becomes even firmer. You can freeze and defrost it to replicate the texture of chicken. You can coarsely grate it if you’d like to turn it into gyros.

As you can see, the options really are endless. This is why I’d like to share some of my personal favorite recipes for extra firm tofu with you.

“Pan Fried Sesame Garlic Tofu” By Table for Two

The secret to super crispy tofu is pressing excess liquid out and coating it in cornstarch. To make the recipe vegan, you can just swap the honey with agave or maple syrup and you’re good to go. Then just pan fry it with some garlic and other flavors, top it with sesame seeds, serve it with your favorite veggies and some rice – and just like that you’ve got yourself a super delicious and quick weekday dinner. What more could you ask for? 

“Easy Curry Tofu Scramble” by Walder Wellness

Are you looking for a super satiating and savory breakfast? Why not try this delicious tofu scramble? It’s got greens, it’s got protein, it’s got flavor – and you can easily meal prep this too, so it’s ready to be eaten in the morning. If you wanted some extra eggy-ness, try adding some kala namak (Indian black salt) for that typical egg flavor.

“Easy Grilled Tofu” by A Couple Cooks

Who can resist those characteristic grill marks on some tasty tofu? I certainly couldn’t. This simple and quick grilled tofu could be the star at your next barbecue. With a flavor profile including sweet, spicy, and tangy, your taste buds won’t believe that this is all coming from plants. The secret, once again, is pressing your tofu before cooking it. 

“Spicy Sofritas Tofu” by Pinch of Yum

Not that there is any need to advocate for sofritas, as they pretty much sell themselves, but think of delicious tofu with some roasted peppers, chipotle peppers, garlic, homemade salsa, and cilantro all in one bite. Are you salivating yet? I sure am! Sofritas are incredibly versatile and great for meal prep as you can serve them in a burrito, over rice, in tacos, or as a casserole. 

“How to make Crispy Air Fryer Tofu” by Jessica In The Kitchen

Can you believe that this easy recipe only takes 10 minutes to make? But it is true, and the air fryer does most of the work, too. Those crispy little cubes are going to be full of flavor and you can use them to add to grain bowls, Cesar salads or as a different kind of crouton to your soup. Yummy!

“Delicious Baked Tofu” by 40 Aprons

Just like air fryer tofu, you can just leave the tofu to bake in the oven. With a sweet and salty marinade, it will become crispy and also start to caramelize – quite the irresistible combo, if you ask me. Baking tofu also can make it nice and chewy and introduce a new texture to your palate. Why not add it to your next ramen bowl or just serve it over some coconut rice for even more flavor explosions? 

If you make any of these recipes, tag me on Instagram so I can see them and let me know what you think!