Microwave cookbooks remain underutilized. When time is short, foods like potatoes lend themselves to exploring a little microwave cookery. The topping for these spuds features tofu, a soy-based curd that's available in firm, soft and silken forms. Firm tofu is best in stir-fry dishes, in soups or on the grill. Soft tofu is often used in soups.
Silken tofu works well in pureed or blended dishes and is a creamy, custard-like product.
Store tofu in the refrigerator. After opening the package, rinse the leftover tofu and cover with fresh water. Change the water daily and use the tofu within a week or freeze for up to five months. Soybeans are part of the meat, poultry, fish, dry beans, eggs and nuts group of the Food Guide Pyramid. A half cup of cooked soybeans equals 1 ounce of meat.