To buy good-quality tofu, you need to pay close attention when purchasing. Tofu is a simple, inexpensive ingredient loved by many for its versatility and ease of preparation. It is rich in protein, iron, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and many other essential nutrients for the body. For this reason, tofu is often referred to as "vegetable meat."

Tofu is aromatic and soft, whether cooked on its own or combined with other ingredients, it always offers a delicious flavor. On hot days, you can enjoy dishes like boiled tofu or sour tofu soup. Although tofu is affordable, it’s important to keep some things in mind when selecting it to avoid buying low-quality tofu.

Tofu that is sticky and strands when pulled

Fresh tofu has a natural elasticity and a smooth texture when touched; it should not be sticky. Fresh tofu will appear plump, with a slight wobble when touched. If you touch the tofu and it feels sticky, or even worse, it pulls strands of slimy residue, you should not buy it. This is a sign that the tofu has been stored improperly for too long and is spoiled.

Tofu, made from soybeans, contains plant-based protein and nutrients, so bacteria can develop quickly if not stored properly. In hot and humid conditions, bacteria multiply rapidly, causing the tofu to become slimy. If you find tofu like this, it is best not to buy it.

Tofu with a sour smell

Freshly made tofu will have a pleasant aroma of soybeans, slightly fatty in scent. However, if tofu is left outside, it spoils quickly due to bacterial contamination. Tofu that has gone bad will develop a strong sour smell. If you encounter tofu with a sour odor, it is best not to purchase it.

Too white tofu

Many people believe that the whiter the tofu, the better. However, tofu made from soybeans and water, without added additives, will have a pale yellow color, not pure white. To achieve bright white tofu, manufacturers often add chemical additives. Tofu containing these chemicals may be harmful to your health.

Tofu that is too firm

Some people add a small amount of gypsum to tofu to make it firmer, but when too much is added, the tofu becomes hard and dry. It is advisable to avoid purchasing tofu that is overly firm.

How to store tofu

Tofu cannot be stored for long, so if you buy it and are not cooking it immediately, here’s how to preserve it:

• Soak in water and refrigerate
  Place the tofu in a container, fill it with water, and seal the lid. Keep the container in the refrigerator. Change the water daily to maintain the freshness of the tofu. This method will allow you to store tofu for up to a week.

• Freeze the tofu
  For longer storage, cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces and place them on a tray lined with parchment paper. Put the tray in the freezer until the tofu freezes solid. Once frozen, transfer the tofu to a sealed container and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw the tofu. Frozen tofu will have a firmer and spongier texture compared to fresh tofu. With this method, you can store tofu for up to 3 months.