Tofu usually refers to the firm kind of tofu that you can slice or cube and cook in the pan. It typically is firm enough to keep its shape while cooking and has chewy bite. Silken or soft tofu is the opposite ans has more of a soft or even jelly-like consistency that is used more often to make pudding or incorporate in soft recipes or sauces. Silken tofu isn't pressed as much in processing compared to firm tofu, making it higher in water and thus, much softer in texture.