Do you love eating tofu? If so, you’re not alone.
Thai cuisine is known for its unique blend of flavors and textures. One of the key ingredients used in many Thai dishes for the best Thai food in Seattle is tofu, a protein-rich soybean curd that has been enjoyed in Asia for centuries.
If you’re new to cooking with tofu, here are some tips on how to prepare and use it in Thai cooking. Keep reading to learn more.
Choose the Right Type of Tofu
There are several types of tofu available, including firm, extra firm, soft, and silken. When cooking Thai-style tofu, it’s best to use firm or extra firm tofu rather than soft. That’s because they hold their shape well and are less likely to fall apart during cooking.
Silken tofu can also be used in soups and smoothies.
Press the Tofu
Tofu comes packed with water, making it watery and difficult to cook with. To remove excess water, place the tofu on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and gently press it with your hands or a tofu press for about 20 minutes.
This will help the tofu absorb more flavors and achieve a firmer texture.
Marinate the Tofu
Tofu has a mild flavor on its own, so it’s important to marinate it in flavorful sauces and spices to infuse it with flavor. A common marinade used for Thai food Bellevue menu items is a mixture of soy sauce, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and lime juice.
Marinate the tofu for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor.
Stir-Fry the Tofu
Stir-frying is a popular cooking method in Thai cuisine that involves quickly cooking ingredients in a hot pan with oil. To stir-fry tofu, heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok or frying pan over high heat.
Add the tofu and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can then add other ingredients such as vegetables, noodles, or rice, and continue stir-frying until everything is cooked through. This is how we make our stir-fry at our Thai food downtown Seattle location, we also use organic tofu in all of our dishes.
Use Tofu in Curries and Soups
Tofu can also be used in Thai curries and soups for added protein and texture. Simply cube the tofu and add it to the curry or soup towards the end of cooking, allowing it to absorb the flavors and become tender.
Try Deep-Frying the Tofu
Deep-frying tofu can give it a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. To deep-fry tofu, cut it into cubes and coat it in cornstarch or flour. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or wok over high heat and carefully add the tofu cubes.
Fry for 3-5 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Remove from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
A Guide to Thai Cooking with Tofu
There’s no denying that Thai food ranks among the most popular worldwide. Fortunately, this guide to the basics of Thai cooking with tofu will help you enjoy your favorite recipes at home. Please contact us today to learn about the Thai Ginger menu and for help finding our locations in the Seattle area.