Cooked pureed soybeans are drained to produce a milky liquid. Tofu is a bland product that easily absorbs the flavors of other ingredients with which it is cooked. Firm tofu is dense and solid. It holds up well in stir-fry dishes, soup, or on the grill. Soft tofu is a good choice for recipes that call for blended tofu or in Oriental soups.
Silken tofu is a creamy product.
It works well in pureed or blended dishes and can be used as a replacement for sour cream in many dip recipes. Once the tofu package is open, left-over tofu should be rinsed and covered with fresh water for storage. Change the water daily to keep it fresh and use the tofu within one week. Tofu can be frozen for up to 5 months. Defrosted tofu has a pleasant caramel color and a chewy, spongy texture that soaks up marinade sauces and is great for the grill.