Pressing Tofu

Pressing transforms the texture of the tofu into something much heartier, meatier, and available to soak up whatever flavors you throw at it. Even extra-firm tofu benefits from removing additional water, of which there is a surprising amount. Pressing can turn you from a tofu avoider into a tofu hoarder.

Tofu presses are available but they’re uncommon in most kitchens, so I’ve provided my (unconventional and sometimes precarious) method for pressing without a true press.