The Best Homemade Tauhu Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Making homemade tauhu is easier than you think, and the results are so much tastier than store-bought. You’ll love how fresh and satisfying it turns out, with a texture that’s just right.

• Simple ingredients – Just a few pantry staples like soybeans and water are all you need.
• Customizable flavor – Adjust the seasoning to your taste, making it as mild or bold as you like.
• Fun to make – It’s a hands-on process that feels rewarding, especially when you see the final product!

Recipe

Tauhu, also known as tofu, is a versatile and nutritious ingredient commonly used in Asian cuisine. Making homemade tauhu allows you to control the texture and flavor while avoiding additives found in store-bought versions. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create fresh tofu in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried soybeans
• 4 cups water (for blending)
• 8 cups water (for boiling)
• 1 teaspoon coagulant (nigari, gypsum, or lemon juice)
• 2 tablespoons water (for dissolving coagulant)

Instructions:

1. Soak the dried soybeans in water overnight or for at least 8 hours.
2. Drain and rinse the soybeans. Blend them with 4 cups of water until smooth.
3. Strain the blended mixture through a cheesecloth or nut milk bag into a large pot to extract soy milk.
4. Heat the soy milk in the pot over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Dissolve the coagulant in 2 tablespoons of water.
6. Slowly add the coagulant mixture to the hot soy milk while stirring gently. Cover the pot and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until curds form.
7. Line a tofu mold or a container with holes with cheesecloth. Transfer the curds into the mold, fold the cloth over the top, and press with a weight for 15-30 minutes to remove excess water.
8. Remove the tofu from the mold and rinse it with cold water. Serve immediately or store in water in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes:

• Use fresh soybeans for the best results.
• Adjust the pressing time to achieve your desired tofu texture (soft, firm, or extra firm).

Equipment:

• Blender
• Cheesecloth or nut milk bag
• Large pot
• Tofu mold or container with holes
• Weight (for pressing)

Time:

Prep time: 10 hours (including soaking)

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Cuisine:

Asian

Servings:

Makes approximately 8 ounces of tofu

Nutrition

This homemade tauhu recipe offers a nutritious alternative to store-bought tofu. Packed with essential nutrients, it supports a balanced diet.

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade tauhu with steamed vegetables because it adds freshness and balance. Serving it with rice dishes like fried rice or coconut rice makes it comforting and filling. It’s a simple combo that always hits the spot without feeling too heavy.

Steamed Vegetables

When you’re serving tauhu, steamed vegetables make a fantastic companion because they’re light, fresh, and balance the savory flavors perfectly. I always go for broccoli, carrots, or bok choy—they’re simple to prepare and add vibrant color to the dish. Steaming preserves their crunch and nutrients, making them feel wholesome and satisfying. I like to toss them with a drizzle of sesame oil or a light soy-sauce dressing to tie everything together. It’s a combo that feels complete without being heavy, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. You’ll love how the flavors complement each other!

Rice Dishes

Alongside steamed vegetables, rice dishes can elevate your tauhu meal by adding a comforting, hearty element. I love pairing tauhu with simple steamed jasmine rice—it’s fluffy, fragrant, and lets the tofu shine. Sometimes, I’ll go for fried rice packed with veggies and a hint of soy sauce for extra flavor. Brown rice is a great option too, adding a nutty texture and more nutrients. If I’m feeling fancy, coconut rice brings a creamy, slightly sweet twist that complements the savory tauhu perfectly. Whatever rice dish I choose, it always makes the meal feel complete and satisfying. Try experimenting—it’s worth it!