Asian tofu is not limited to the traditional white block in the chilled aisle. Silken tofu, dried tofu, spicy tofu, braised tofu, tofu skin and tofu sticks each have their own specific uses. The perfect texture for a soup will not necessarily work in a stir-fry, while a tofu snack may be convenient but significantly saltier than plain tofu.
Before placing an order or filling your basket, French consumers often make three mistakes:
Silken tofu is soft, smooth and particularly delicate. It is ideal for soups, sauces, desserts, dressings and blended dishes. The Mori-Nu Silken Tofu Soft 305 g, for example, can be stored in a cupboard before opening and provides 5.8 g of protein per 100 g according to its product details.
Firm tofu, fried tofu and dried tofu are better suited to cooking. You can stir-fry or braise them, or add them to a broth. Tofu skin and tofu sheets also absorb sauces very easily. Dried tofu sticks generally need a fairly long soak before being added to a hot pot, cold salad or slow-cooked dish.
Always check the instructions on the packaging:
The YUN QIAN WEI tofu skin strips, for example, need to be soaked in cold water for around 30 minutes before use. The dried sticks from the same range require between two and three hours of rehydration.
Soy is one of the allergens that must be declared. Some products also contain sesame, wheat, eggs or fish. Keep an eye on the salt content too: several braised or spicy products contain more than 2 g of salt per 100 g.
When comparing two products, use the values given per 100 g rather than the suggested serving size. Plain tofu often has a very short ingredients list, whereas spicy tofu or a seasoned snack is more likely to contain oil, sugar, spices, flavour enhancers or preservatives. This is not necessarily a deal-breaker: what matters is that the ingredients suit the way you intend to use the product.
Why this product suits this profile : At 305 g, this pack lets you try silken tofu without committing to a large quantity. It works just as well in soups and sauces as it does in salads or desserts.
The texture is clearly stated, and the product does not need to be refrigerated before opening, reducing the risk of incorrect storage.
A smooth texture, 5.8 g of protein per 100 g and a vegan use indication on the product page.
Why this product suits this profile : This large pack is aimed at people who regularly cook Chinese dishes, whether cold salads or hot pot.
According to the product details, the ingredients are limited to yellow soybeans, with no added preservatives.
Pre-cut strips, 43.2 g of protein per 100 g and a texture that absorbs broths effectively.
Why this product suits this profile : Tofu sticks are ideal for households that regularly prepare slow-cooked dishes, braised tofu or hearty soups.
The soaking time, between two and three hours, is clearly stated. It cannot be mistaken for ready-to-eat tofu.
Soy is listed as the sole ingredient, with 41.3 g of protein per 100 g and a texture that holds its shape well after rehydration.
Why this product suits this profile : This ready-to-eat braised tofu pairs easily with rice or noodles and can also be enjoyed as a snack without any cooking.
The product details state that it is ready to eat and should be stored in a cool, dry place before opening.
A 238 g pack, a firm texture and 24.4 g of protein per 100 g according to the available information.
We have put together a complete, real-time updated selection of products that meet these strict criteria as well as European safety requirements.
No. Plain tofu, silken tofu and many types of tofu skin are generally made from soy, but some products also contain fish, eggs or flavourings of animal origin. Always check the ingredients list and allergens before buying. Little Chef Fish Tofu, for example, contains 62.95% fish paste as well as egg white.
It depends on the product. Silken tofu packaged in an aseptic container should generally be refrigerated after opening and consumed within the following few days. Ready-to-eat tofu should be resealed and stored according to the label instructions. Frozen products must not be refrozen after defrosting and should be consumed promptly once prepared.
Choose a texture that withstands heat while absorbing the broth: fried tofu, tofu skin, tofu sheets, rehydrated sticks or tofu and vegetable pouches. Silken tofu is better suited to delicate soups. Handle it carefully, as it breaks apart easily.