Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in many different ways. One popular cooking method is pan-frying, which gives tofu a crispy, golden exterior with a soft, creamy interior. Freezing tofu prior to frying allows you to achieve an even crispier texture. So yes, you can definitely fry tofu and then freeze it for later use.
Freezing tofu causes the water molecules inside to expand, creating ice crystals that puncture the soy protein network. When thawed and fried, the ice crystals leave behind gaps and voids, allowing the tofu to soak up more oil and take on a spongy, porous texture. This gives fried tofu a lighter, chewier bite compared to unfrozen tofu.
Freezing and frying transforms the texture of tofu significantly. Here’s a closer look at the process and benefits of frying and freezing tofu:
Steps for Freezing and Frying Tofu
Freezing tofu is simple and only requires a few steps:
1. Press the tofu
Remove tofu from its package and wrap in paper towels or a clean dish towel. Place something heavy, like a cast iron skillet, on top to gently press out any excess liquid. Allow to sit for 15-30 minutes. Removing moisture helps the tofu better absorb the oil when fried.
2. Cut the tofu
Cut the pressed tofu into cubes, slabs, triangles – whatever shape works best for your intended dish. Smaller pieces will freeze and thaw faster.
3. Freeze the tofu
Arrange the cut tofu in a single layer on a baking sheet or tray and place in the freezer. Allow to freeze completely solid, usually overnight or for at least 12 hours.
4. Thaw the tofu
Once fully frozen, transfer the tofu from the baking sheet into a freezer bag or airtight container. Store in the freezer until ready to use. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frying.
5. Fry the tofu
Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the thawed, frozen tofu pieces in a single layer. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until evenly golden.
6. Use the fried tofu
Enjoy the crispy fried tofu immediately or let cool completely before freezing for later. The fried tofu will keep in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Benefits of Freezing and Frying Tofu
Freezing and frying tofu provides several advantages:
Improved Texture
The ice crystals formed during freezing create pores in the tofu. These pores absorb more oil during frying, giving the tofu a crispier crust and chewier interior. Unfrozen tofu can soak up oil during frying, but doesn’t achieve the same light and crispy texture.
Better Flavor
The increased oil absorption also allows the tofu to take on more flavor from seasonings and marinades. Unfrozen tofu tends to get saturated from marinades applied before frying. Pre-frozen tofu has more room to take on added flavors.
Longer Lasting
Fried tofu holds up better over time compared to other cooking methods. The oil acts as a barrier to prevent moisture loss. Fried tofu retains its texture for longer than grilled, baked, or steamed tofu.
Versatile
Fried tofu can be tossed into stir fries, paired with rice, added to noodle dishes, or enjoyed on its own as a snack. Having frozen, pre-fried tofu in the freezer makes it easy to incorporate into quick meals.
Convenient Meal Prep
Freezing fried tofu allows you to cook a big batch all at once instead of frying smaller amounts each time you need it. It saves time in the kitchen during busy weeks.
Best Practices for Freezing and Frying Tofu
Following a few simple guidelines will ensure you get the best results:
Use Firm or Extra Firm Tofu
Softer varieties like silken tofu don’t hold up as well to freezing and frying. Always opt for firm or extra firm.
Cut Even Pieces
Uniformly sized pieces will freeze and thaw at the same rate and fry evenly.
Dry Thoroughly Before Frying
Blot just-thawed tofu with paper towels to remove any moisture on the surface. Wet tofu causes splattering when hit with oil.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Fry in a single layer with space between each piece. Crowding the pan drops the oil temperature and prevents even browning.
Fry at the Right Temperature
Heat the oil to 350°F-375°F. Use a deep fry thermometer to monitor temperature. Oil that is too hot or too cool affects texture.
Don’t Defrost Too Long
Thaw just until malleable, but not completely thawed. Some iciness inside helps the tofu stay together better during frying.
Tips for Using Fried Frozen Tofu
Pre-fried tofu straight from the freezer makes whipping up delicious vegetarian meals simple. Here are some handy tips:
Re-fry for Extra Crispiness
Quickly pan-frying thawed, frozen tofu a second time makes it shatteringly crispy. Just 1-2 minutes per side is enough.
Toss in Sauce
Stir fried tofu into your favorite sauces or curries right at the end to warm through. This prevents sogginess.
Top Salads and Bowls
Thawed fried tofu pairs perfectly with grain bowls, vegetable stir fries, and green salads. Sprinkle on some chili crisp or sesame seeds.
Make Tofu Breakfast Tacos
Heat corn tortillas in a dry skillet. Fill with crumbled fried tofu, avocado, salsa, and egg for a satisfying brunch.
Blend into Smoothies
Add a protein punch to fruit smoothies by blending in a few cubes of thawed fried tofu. It provides a subtle creamy richness.
Storing Fried Frozen Tofu
To maintain quality and prevent spoilage, store fried frozen tofu properly:
Use Air-Tight Containers
Glass or plastic containers with tight fitting lids prevent freezer burn. Mason jars also work well.
Exclude as Much Air as Possible
Press plastic wrap directly on the surface of the tofu before sealing containers to minimize air exposure.
Avoid Temperature Fluctuations
Prevent thawing and re-freezing by keeping frozen tofu consistently at 0°F or below.
Use Within 3 Months
For best flavor and texture, use fried frozen tofu within 3 months. Label containers with dates.
Keep Away From Odors
Store tofu in a part of the freezer separated from strong smelling foods like fish. It can absorb odors.
Recipes Using Fried Frozen Tofu
Here are a few recipe ideas to inspire you:
Spicy Sichuan Mapo Tofu
Cubes of fried frozen tofu are simmered in a savory sauce with ground pork and Sichuan peppercorns. Classic Chinese comfort food.
Crispy Tofu Banh Mi
Build these Vietnamese sandwiches by layering fried frozen tofu with pickled carrots, cucumber, cilantro, and spicy aioli on a toasted baguette.
Tofu Breakfast Scramble
Turmeric scrambled eggs get extra substance from crumbled fried frozen tofu. Add spinach, tomatoes or other veggies.
Tofu Salad Rolls
Rice paper wrappers stuffed with fried tofu, fresh herbs, vermicelli, and lettuce. Serve with a peanut hoisin dipping sauce.
Tofu Larb Lettuce Cups
The Thai-inspired larb filling of lime, chili, and minced meat is made vegetarian with ground fried tofu. Scoop into lettuce leaves.
BBQ Jackfruit Sliders with Tofu
Pulled jackfruit and fried tofu drenched in sticky barbecue sauce is piled high on mini buns for a plant-based take on a summer classic.
Nutrition of Fried Frozen Tofu
As a soy food, tofu is naturally:
- Low in calories
- High in protein
- Packed with essential minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium
- An excellent source of B vitamins
Frying adds some additional oil and calories, but tofu remains very nutrition dense. A 3 ounce serving of fried tofu contains:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbs | 1g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Calcium | 130mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
Tofu is naturally cholesterol-free, low carb, and low calorie while providing essential vitamins and minerals. It’s an excellent meat alternative for vegetarians and vegans. Freezing and frying adds satisfying texture and crunch with minimal impact to its high nutrition profile.
Common Questions About Frying and Freezing Tofu
Does frozen tofu taste different than fresh?
Freezing changes the texture of tofu significantly, but doesn’t alter the taste. Thawed, frozen tofu absorbs marinades better. Overall flavor impact depends on added seasonings.
Can you freeze and re-freeze tofu?
Previously frozen tofu shouldn’t be refrozen after thawing. The texture will become uneven. Only freeze never frozen blocks of tofu.
Is frozen tofu safe to eat?
Completely frozen and properly stored tofu is safe to eat indefinitely, though quality declines after a few months. Thaw frozen tofu completely before cooking. Partially thawed tofu can harbor bacteria.
Can you freeze pre-fried tofu?
Fried tofu can be frozen after cooking. Allow it to cool completely first to prevent moisture from forming freezer burn crystals. Portion into freezer bags or airtight containers.
Why does my fried tofu stick to the pan?
Be sure pans and oil are sufficiently hot before frying. Pat tofu dry thoroughly so there’s no moisture. Use a small amount of oil and fry in a single layer without crowding the pan.
Conclusion
Freezing tofu before frying transforms the texture, making it crispy and spongy with lots of nooks and crannies perfect for soaking up flavorful sauces and seasonings. Frying and then refreezing tofu allows you to cook it in batches for quick, easy meals prepped ahead of time. With proper storage, the pre-fried tofu keeps for months. Crispy fried tofu adds hearty texture and protein to grain bowls, salads, sandwiches, scrambles and more. Taking advantage of freezing and frying makes incorporating this versatile vegetarian staple into your diet a breeze.