If you’re like me and you don’t have a tofu press, don’t worry. You can DIY with items from around your house. I recently shared a video about this on Instagram so you can check it out there, or keep reading for step-by-step instructions.

Starting with firm or extra firm tofu, that has been removed from the package and drained, here’s how you do it: 

Step 1: Wrap the tofu in a dish cloth or paper towel.

Step 2: Place your tofu onto a flat surface (like a cutting board or larger plate with a lip).

Step 3: Use heavy objects from your house (cast iron pan, large cookbooks, jugs of vinaigre, cans, etc) to weigh down the tofu. 

Step 4: Let it sit for approximately 30 mins (if you’re short on time, even 10 or 15 mins will suffice). When you're done pressing, you’ll notice that a lot of the water from the tofu has been absorbed into the towel.

Step 5: Coat your tofu with sauces or seasonings and then cook up a delicious, perfectly crispy tofu. 

Why press tofu?

Pressing helps remove excess water, which is KEY if you want a firmer texture and better flavor absorption. Here’s why I press tofu:

1. Improves Texture: Tofu has high water content, and the more water it contains the softer it is. Pressing tofu gives it a firmer, meatier texture, which makes it great for stir-frying, air-frying, grilling, or baking.

2. Better Flavor Absorption: Pressing out the water makes tofu more porous allowing it to soak up marinades, sauces and seasonings.

3. Crispier Finish: If you’re trying to make crispy tofu, pressing out the moisture will help achieve that golden, crunchy exterior!

What kind of tofu should you use?

I always choose organic firm or extra firm tofu. You wouldn’t want to use silken tofu or medium tofu as they are softer (higher water content) than firm/extra firm tofu which is sturdier and holds its shape better (due to lower water content).

FYI -  If you’re making tofu scramble, for example, you don’t need to press your tofu as it’s being crumbled up and the desired texture is soft and egg-like. Hope this helps!

If you’re a DIY tofu presser like me, what sort of household objects are you using?? Let me know in the comments below.