19 different and delicious ways to use tofu

Some nutritional yeast, non-dairy milk, apple cider vinegar, oil, spices, and optional nuts combine to make the perfect cream cheese substitute. Better yet, without any of the tummy issues if you’re dairy-sensitive or have awkward convos when vegan pals come over for meals. Add to bagels, use as a dip, or mix in a veggie wrap.

Tofu and chocolate? I know it sounds unconventional, but tofu is actually a great addition to a chocolate pie recipe. It adds body, firmness, and a bit of protein!

Out of eggs? Having your vegan friend over for brunch? Scramble a bit of tofu with a potato masher (make sure to use firm or extra firm tofu), and you’ll be ready to go. Add whatever spices and oil you prefer and if you like that nice egg yellow, a bit of turmeric!

Fried tofu is great because it’s so versatile. You can add it to salads, stir-fries, rice bowls, and more. Use flour and breadcrumbs, or whatever your preferred coating, and then add your favorite sauce for a protein-packed snack or meal addition.

Tofu blends in nicely if you want extra protein and nutritional value in muffins, cupcakes, or other baked goods. Just add a bit to the batter, and since it doesn’t have much taste on its own, it’ll soak up whatever flavor you have. 

Whether grilled, fried, or however you cook your tofu, it’s always a great addition to salads. It’s great with fresh veggies and vinaigrette or beans and some cheese.

You’ve probably cooked down mushrooms into a veggie-friendly sauce. Add to canned pasta sauce or make your own from scratch. Then, cook your favorite pasta for a fun, vegetarian-friendly (or not, depending on your recipe) dish.

Grilled tofu has a similar consistency to halloumi (a bit softer and different taste) and is great on its own. Alternatively, eat it with other smaller bites, add it to sandwiches, or use it as a burger substitute.

You can sub tofu in sandwiches and salads, as well as tacos! Cook and season as you would taco meat, and add slabs along with avocado, salsa, and cilantro to fresh tortillas!

Spaghetti bolognese or carbonara might be the go-to protein pasta, but you don’t have to eat meat with your noodles. Instead, swap out tofu for something a bit lighter and veggie-friendly.

You can swap out gluten-heavy bread croutons and instead use tofu! Just pan-fry cubes until crisp. Then add to any salad for a unique protein addition!

Tofu skin is an underrated ingredient with a nice taste and chewy texture. When fried, it’s almost like shredded chicken — great in stir-fries!

Tahini is a favorite dip all across Europe and the Middle East. But it’s becoming more popular in the US. And if you add tofu, some spices, and lemon juice, it levels it up a bit.

Spring rolls are most commonly made with veggies or shrimp. But a bit of fried tofu instead, or in addition to the above, would be a nice menu change.

Besides tofu, mushrooms are one of the most popular meat substitutes in vegetarian and vegan dishes. Before all those plant-based meats came on the market. So, if you combine the two in a curry or stir fry, you’re getting double the nutritional benefits!

Whether it’s quick-make pho or a heavier veggie stew, tofu adds nice texture and nutritional value to a hot liquid meal. Just grill or fry it a bit and let it cool a bit before adding it.

This can be an acquired taste with more of a gelatin consistency. However, chilled cuts of tofu topped with whatever sauce or toppings you like (balsamic vinegar, apple juice, peanuts, sesame seeds, etc.) make a great starter or dessert.

Like many other ingredients, tofu comes smoked and is fantastic on toast with avocado or cucumber. Add your favorite sauce or spread, and you’ve got a great new breakfast favorite.

Egg salad sandwiches are great unless you’re vegan or just not a fan of eggs! Instead, swap those for tofu for a new lunchtime go-to.