Tofu for the Newbie

[lenachristine]

I've never tried tofu in an shape or form before but it is something I've recently become interested in. I see so many delicious looking recipes that use tofu but I tend to get a bit scared to try them since it is new territory for me. What would you suggest for a good first dish to try? I need something simple with basic ingredients since I don't have a lot of time or money to spend on anything elaborate. Thanks in advance for the suggestions!

 

[SatNavSaysStraightOn]

tofu has a very bland flavour so if you are trying it for the first time, don't be surprised if you don't like it if you have not spiced it up/marinated it or added it to something that is strong in flavour.

There are also 2 different types of tofu, Chinese & Japanese. The Japanese one is the silken tofu which works well for this recipe https://www.cookingbites.com/threads/scrambled-tofu-with-mushrooms-onions.1760/
the Chinese one is firmer/more robust' and less 'slimey' in nature and better for holding its shape in dishes. I use this one in stir fries and thai dishes where it has to hold its shape. It is best marinated in my opinion. It is also known as regular tofu.

this is a useful link. http://vegetarian.about.com/od/vegetarianvegan101/f/TypesofTofu.htm if you understand what you are buying, i.e. which version you will be better off from the word go.

 

[firelily99]

I like being able to marinate the Chinese tofu, it really adds flavor to it in the most efficient way possible. Tofu can be hard to get seasoned and it takes some time to get the hang of it.