How to Store Tofu So It Stays Fresh for Months After You Open It

Here’s the trick for keeping your tofu fresh for as long as possible.

Whether you’re a vegetarian , vegan, or just trying to consume more plant-based dishes , tofu is a tasty and protein-packed option. And since tofu is incredibly absorbent, it can take on rich flavors from sauces, spices, or marinades. Depending on the firmness of your tofu, there are so many ways to prepare it—you can fry, grill, bake, air fry, or even cook it in a pressure cooker—it just depends on the flavor and texture you’re trying to achieve. But, before you cook your tofu, it’s important to understand all the different ways you can store it to preserve its ultimate freshness. Here’s how to store tofu so it stays fresh and delicious.

Related: 9 Impressive Health Benefits of Tofu

How to Store Tofu in the Refrigerator

Believe it or not, packaged unopened tofu will last only 3 to 5 days, which is a shorter shelf life than opening it and storing it in the refrigerator. If your tofu comes in airtight packaging, you can use it before the labeled expiration date .

However, if your tofu comes in water, it’s a good idea to create your own storage solution, which will help it last longer. To do this, open the tofu package and place the tofu in a food storage container with a lid. Be sure to cover the tofu with cold water before placing the lid on tightly. To ensure your tofu stays moist and fresh, change out the water once a day. When stored this way, tofu should keep in the refrigerator for about a week.

How to Store Leftover Tofu

Just like with anything else, the sooner you eat your leftover tofu dish, the fresher it will be. Cooked tofu will last up to 5 days in an airtight container in the fridge, but if you notice a sour odor, that’s a clear indication that the tofu has gone bad and should be tossed.

Related: What Is Tofu Made Of?

How to Freeze Tofu

While you can freeze almost all types of tofu, firm and extra firm will work best since they are most able to retain texture and taste. For the best way to freeze tofu, follow the steps below:

1. Prepare to freeze your tofu by lightly patting it dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. You can freeze a whole block of tofu, or you can cut it into small cubes.
2. Arrange the tofu on a baking sheet , and place in the freezer overnight.
3. The next day, remove the tofu from the freezer and transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-friendly bag. When stored this way, tofu will last for up to 5 months.

When you’re ready to use your frozen tofu, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight. If you want to use the tofu sooner, run it under cold water for a few minutes until it’s completely thawed, and then it pat dry before cooking with it to remove any moisture.

Frozen tofu works just as well as fresh tofu, especially if you want to pan-fry it to make this Crispy Peanut Tofu With Sugar Snap Peas and Peppers . You can also grill previously frozen tofu for a lighter and flavorful dinner option.

How Long Does Tofu Last?

Tofu that is stored in the fridge will last up to a week when the water is changed daily. If you’re storing tofu in the freezer, it should last up to 5 months.

Related: 26 Crowd-Pleasing Recipes to Serve the Next Time You Host Game Day

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you store tofu after opening?

If you’re opening a package of tofu but don’t plan on using it right away, you can simply store it in a container with clean, cold water, and then cover it tightly with a lid. Tofu that’s been opened will last up to 7 days in the fridge, but it’s important to change the water daily to keep your tofu fresh and moist.

Can you store tofu without water?

Tofu should always be stored in fresh, clean water unless it’s unopened and in well-sealed packaging. Clean water will help prevent bacterial growth and keep tofu perfectly moist for as long as possible.

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