To make pressed tofu even firmer for baking purposes, you can follow these steps:
Drain the Tofu: Start by draining the tofu. Remove it from its packaging and drain any excess water by gently pressing it between paper towels or clean kitchen towels. This will help the tofu absorb more flavor and achieve a firmer texture.
Press the Tofu: Pressing the tofu will help to remove more moisture, making it even firmer. Use a tofu press or DIY pressing method by placing the tofu between two plates with a weight on top (like a heavy can or a cast-iron skillet). Let it press for at least 15-30 minutes, or longer if you have time.
Freeze and Thaw (Optional): This step is optional but can further enhance the tofu's texture. After pressing, you can freeze the tofu overnight and then thaw it. Freezing creates ice crystals that create small gaps in the tofu, allowing it to become firmer upon thawing.
Marinate the Tofu: Prepare a flavorful marinade of your choice. Marinating the pressed tofu before baking will not only infuse it with delicious flavors but also help improve its texture. Common marinades include soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, barbecue sauce, or a mix of herbs and spices with olive oil.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to the desired temperature. Baking at higher temperatures will help to achieve a firmer texture and a crispy exterior.
Bake the Tofu: Place the marinated tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake it in the preheated oven until it reaches the desired firmness and texture. Depending on the oven temperature and thickness of the tofu, this may take around 25-35 minutes. You can flip the tofu halfway through the baking process for even texture on both sides.
Optional Cornstarch Coating: For an even firmer and crispier texture, you can lightly coat the marinated tofu with cornstarch or arrowroot powder before baking. This helps create a crunchy outer layer.
Allow to Cool: Once baked, allow the tofu to cool slightly before serving. The texture will continue to firm up a bit as it cools down.
By following these steps, you can achieve a firmer texture in your pressed tofu, making it more suitable for baking or any other cooking method that requires a sturdier tofu structure.