Practical Ways to Make Tofu Last Longer, Not Break, and Free from Sliminess

Kapanlagi.com - Tofu, a food that has become an icon of Indonesian cuisine, is indeed inseparable from daily life. This plant-based protein made from soybeans is not only famous for its budget-friendly price but also for its abundant nutritional content and super easy preparation methods. According to a survey by the Central Statistics Agency, the average tofu consumption per person in Indonesia reaches 7.5 kg each year!

Amid the busyness of modern housewives who tend to buy food supplies in large quantities for time and cost efficiency, tofu has also become one of the frequently purchased items. However, storing raw tofu is not without challenges. If left too long, tofu can become slimy, emit an unpleasant odor, or even break easily when cooked. This is due to the water and protein content in tofu, which becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. In addition, tofu that easily crumbles when cooked, especially in soups or stir-fries, can certainly ruin the appearance and texture of our dishes.

But don’t worry! There is a simple solution to this problem. KapanLagi.com has summarized several effective tricks to keep tofu fresh and not easily breakable. One of them comes from TikTok account owner @ernawati137_, who shared a method of preserving tofu without boiling or adding preservatives. How? Just steam the sliced tofu for 30 minutes on a steaming rack. "Steam the tofu for 30 minutes to keep it fresh for storage, not slimy, and when cooked, it won't easily break apart," she wrote.

With this trick, you can enjoy tofu in various dishes more comfortably and still appetizing!

1. Why Does Tofu Easily Become Slimy and Spoil Quickly?

Tofu, with its abundant water content, turns out to be a fertile ground for bacterial growth. Moreover, improper storage can accelerate its spoilage process. Fluctuating temperatures also play a significant role in reducing tofu's shelf life, making it crucial for us to understand the proper storage methods to keep tofu fresh and safe for consumption.

2. Practical Solution: Steaming Tofu for Longer Shelf Life

The steaming method has notable advantages over boiling, especially in preserving nutrient content while reducing moisture levels. To steam tofu correctly, simply place the tofu on a steaming rack and let it steam for 30 minutes. According to the account owner @ernawati137_, "Steaming tofu for 30 minutes makes it last longer when stored and prevents it from becoming slimy, while also keeping it firm when cooked, so it doesn't easily crumble!"

3. How Long Can Tofu Last After Steaming?

After going through a careful steaming process, tofu now has a much longer shelf life compared to regular raw tofu. At room temperature, steamed tofu can stay fresh for up to 2-3 days, and if stored in the refrigerator, its freshness can last for 5-7 days. To keep the tofu optimal, store it in a tightly sealed and dry container, so its flavor remains preserved!

4. Advantages of Steamed Tofu: Denser, Not Easily Crumbled, and Odor-Free

After undergoing the steaming process, tofu experiences a transformation that makes its structure denser and stronger, so it no longer crumbles easily when fried or cooked in broth. Not only that, steaming also successfully eliminates the off-putting odor that often bothers raw tofu, making it more delicious and appetizing when processed into various dishes.

5. Tips for Storing Tofu So It Doesn't Spoil Quickly

To keep your tofu fresh and delicious, store it in a dry, closed container. Avoid keeping it in water after steaming, and place it in a cool spot to extend its shelf life. With these simple tips, you can enjoy tofu longer without worrying about its quality!

6. Delicious Steamed Tofu Recipe Inspiration

Enjoy the deliciousness of tofu with tempting variations!

• Crispy Tofu with Sweet and Sour Sauce

Simply fry pieces of steamed tofu coated in flour until golden, then drizzle with sweet and sour tomato sauce.

• Steamed Tofu with Soy Sauce Seasoning

Where steamed tofu is paired with fragrant sautéed shallots and sweet soy sauce, topped with fresh green onions for added freshness.

• Warm and Nutritious Tofu Mushroom Soup

The perfect dish to accompany your days. Boil water with garlic and ginger, then add tofu, wood ear mushrooms, and carrots until cooked, served with a sprinkle of green onions and fried onions for an enticing aroma.

With these recipes, you are ready to create delicious and satisfying tofu dishes! Happy cooking!

(kpl/lfz)