Make authentic Tofu at home using Nigari.
Our dear friends Kon’nichiwa! We know your thoughts. Homemade tofu? How? Why?
Elementary! Trust us, it’s easier than you think and it’s actually quite fun!
Do you know what is Nigari?
#Nigari -also called bittern- is the traditional coagulant used in Japan and is the most widely used #coagulant in commercial tofu making today. Why Japanese Nigari is better? This salt is obtained from seawater. It is a by-product formed during the production of ordinary sea salt. It differs from the standard one in that it is made up of ninety-five percent #magnesium chloride. In its turn magnesium chloride is helpful for the following conditions: depression, insomnia, prevention of stroke and heart disease, constipation, migraine. Regular use of it successfully helps to compensate for magnesium deficiency in the body. Plus, studies show it strengthens the immune system. This salt has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Is homemade tofu better than the stuff you get at the grocery stores?
Well, is there any difference for you between fresh mozzarella and the rubbery stuff sold in vacuum-sealed packaging? Besides, the creamy, #silken, custardy texture of homemade tofu is memorable and sets it apart from the store-bought stuff. Also remember preservatives, stabilizers, and extra ingredients added for uniform texture in store-bought tofu can easily drive out the natural & earthy soy flavor.
Interesting to know that the protein in tofu identical to the protein in chicken. And the amino acid analysis of tofu is similar to that of most animal #proteins. Tofu can be an excellent food for babies, elderly adults, and people with digestive problems.
What is the process?
When #nigari is added to #soy milk, it separates into bean curds and whey. The curds are strained and pressed, and, voilà, you have tofu. It’s as straightforward as that.
Is tofu hard to make?
Each of the varieties of tofu can be easily prepared at home using utensils found in most kitchens. #Homemade #tofu will be ready in an hour. Like fresh bread warm from the oven, #fresh tofu prepared at home has a richness and delicacy of flavor. We also provide you with instructions to make delightful tofu.
Pairing with Tofu?
Tofu is so versatile that it can serve as an ingredient in almost an entire range of your favorite dishes. Perhaps no other food has such a wide range of interesting forms, textures, and flavors. Tofu’s spongy nature and neutral flavor, it absorbs and pairs well with any number of sauces and dishes. It can be baked, fried, deep-fried, boiled (such as in soups), and more. Crisp the homemade tofu in a hot skillet until it is golden and try it with a peanut-sesame dipping sauce or toasted chili oil. Tofu in its many forms can be enjoyed day after day, adding body and richness of flavor.
What Nigari is the best coagulant for your Homemade Tofu?
You can use a few different ingredients to cause coagulation in your #soymilk, and all of them will affect your tofu’s texture. Coagulants include seawater, lemon juice,#liquidnigari, gypsum, and vinegar. Lemon juice and vinegar won’t yield as much, and the taste of the resulting tofu is inferior. Also, lemon juice and vinegar will yield a bit of sour taste and gritty texture. Our recommendation is to use nigari for reliable tofu-making.
What can I make with Silken Tofu (Kinugoshi)?
Use #silkentofu in smoothies or desserts. Take ½ c silken tofu, 1c fresh or frozen berries or peaches, 1 ½ c milk, unsweetened orange or berry juice, or combination, 3 ice cubes, honey to taste. Blend ingredients until smooth in an electric blender or using an immersion blender. Enjoy! Can I bake Tofu?
Experiment freely using tofu in oven cookery. Always use pressed tofu where a firm or slightly dry consistency is desired. Let’s make tofu-stuffed green peppers. You will need 2 tablespoons oil, 1 minced onion, ½ cup mashed potatoes, 12 ounces tofu, pressed, 2 tablespoons ketchup, masalas, 2 large green peppers, cut vertically into halves and seeded. Use the mixture as a stuffing for the green peppers. Arrange them on a lightly oiled pan and bake for 20 minutes. Bon appétit!
Who doesn’t like French Fries?
Let’s make Tofu French Fries. You will have to use pressed tofu, cut tofu crosswise into pieces about the size of French-fried potatoes. Heat oil in a skillet, deep-fry tofu until golden brown. Sprinkle masalas. We are all set for a movie.
Hey dear Friends, we want to hear about your tofu making! Spread the curd word to your friends and family. Tell us your favorite way to enjoy your homemade tofu. Do not forget to tag your tofu photos with #poshflavors for a chance to be featured! And finally, once your tofu is done, invite all your friends to ooh and ahh at the magic of your homemade tofu