You are probably here because you are new to tofu or have been using it for a while but looking for a better way of preparing it.
Well, this is the right place for you as we will take you through one of the ways to get the perfectly made tofu; using the best tofu press.
This article will take you through some of the best tofu makers that will get rid of that water, hassle-free.
If you don't have enough time to read this in-depth guide, you can buy our recommended presses from this table below.
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Our 7 Best Tofu Press Picks
Shopping for the tofu makers can take you a long time, as these products all work towards achieving the same thing. But are they really all the same? Let’s have a look at our top recommendations of the best tofu press and find out...
1. Super Tofu Press - The Original
If affordability and convenience are what you are targeting, then the Super Tofu Press is your answer.
The two plastic plates are BPA and HDPE free meaning your tofu will retain its original sweet taste without having been tampered with.
All the materials used in the manufacture of this product are very food friendly and are approved by the FDA.
The Super Press is very much efficient in its working as it drains out all the excess water in as little as 15 minutes, while still retaining all the nutrients.
The four-spring technology used in the manufacture of this product ensures it deals with tofu of all firmness and texture.
The foot pads are an added feature to this product hence promoting its stability and efficiency. While other models can wobble while being used, the Super Tofu Press grips the surface firmly making your work easier.
The product has also undergone numerous dishwasher tests and proven not to corrode or wear off for a very long time.
The size of the press is also considerably small and is enough to easily fit inside any kitchen closet or cabinet – this does not, however, affect its efficacy, as it can be used to press any other thing you want apart from tofu.
This Press has some challenges that come with it. The four screws, which require to be individually tightened, can bring issues when pressing the tofu hence an unevenly shaped and pressed tofu.
In as much as the work of a tofu press is to reduce the mess which would have otherwise been made by pressing the tofu using other traditional methods, this product might make a bit of mess in your kitchen.
You may require to place the product inside a dish or container in order to collect the liquid pressed from the block.
Positives
Negatives
2. EZ Tofu Press
Easily passing as a budget pick, this is another plate-style tofu press which requires the user to tighten the top wingnuts from time to time in order to drain all the excess water from the tofu.
The centered mark in the middle shows you where to place the tofu block hence avoiding unevenly pressed blocks.
The product lacks springs or bands to provide resistance so you won’t have to worry about the wear and tear of certain parts of the press.
Instead, EZ Press uses a different mechanism, unlike the Super Tofu Press. It requires the user to monitor their tofu and keep on adjusting it to prevent cracking or too much tightening.
Taking a very short period of time-just 15 minutes, to get your tofu ready is just one of the many advantages you stand to get when using EZ Tofu Maker.
Weighing just 1.1 pounds, carrying it around is very easy, and also store in the drawers. It’s very easy to clean too.
Many users of the EZ are generally satisfied with the product but a small number have, however, complained about it. Some claim that the plastic slabs are not durable and can easily crack.
Some users have also complained that tightening the screws can be a bit of work.
Positives
Negatives
3. TofuXPress - Gourmet Tofu Press
Unlike plate-style tofu making equipment, the TofuXpress- Gourmet Tofu Press/Marinating Dish requires no additional baking pans to catch the drained water.
The design of this product is so much efficient that you will have fewer worries when pressing your tofu.
The product comes with a separate lid which can also act as a marinating dish. All components (with an exception of the stainless steel springs) which make up the tofu press are made from clear thermoplastic and are FDA approved.
The clear plastic is environmental-friendly and helps ones easily monitor their tofu as it gets pressed.
Some customers have, however, complained of the material and termed it as not durable, as it can easily break after falling.
The Gourmet Press is easy to clean and is also safe for cleaning in a dishwasher.
A recipe book comes along with the product where you will write down your recipes for a perfect meal of tofu.
Getting started with this press might be a bit tricky at first but will prove to be easy as you get used to. Besides, an instruction manual comes along with the press to make your work even easier.
Positives
Negatives
4. Tofuture Tofu Making Press
With a stylistic modern and compact design, this tofu maker is an ideal choice for many.
The small size is so much ideal for storage-you can even store it in the fridge if you want to.
This press is made up of three main parts; two containers – one at the bottom which collects the water and one which the tofu sits on and a lid which has rubber bands which help in adjusting the tension.
The plastic material used is BPA free so you can rest assured that your food has no toxic impurities.
This product is easy to master and unlike some other tofu making products, Tofuture Tofu Press makes zero mess. The product is also safe to clean in a dishwasher.
Positives
Negatives
5. Raw Rutes Ninja Tofu Press
If you prefer simplicity and durability, this is the most ideal option for you.
Made from a solid 304-grade stainless steel, this product is designed to last longer than most of the other tofu press brands mentioned in this list.
Its design is by far the simplest as it only has two parts. The first one acts as the box where the tofu is placed and the other part is the lid which doubles up as the presser.
The good thing about this product is that there are no sophistication or any other hidden parts such as springs, bolts, etc.
Due to its solid construction and shape, one can press an entire block of tofu without having to press it in bits.
The product also doubles as a tofu mold which allows you to make your own tofu if you know how to do so.
Positives
Negatives
6. Mangocore Tofu Maker Press Mold Kit
The tofu maker press mold kit from Mangocore is simple, light, and very effective.
Made from food grade plastic, this product is ideal for many people as it is odorless and does not affect your tofu with toxic materials.
This product was initially crafted to be making tofu but it can also be used as a tofu presser.
Using the product is quite simple; just place the tofu inside the box and press using the lid.
A couple of minutes later the tofu should have drained enough water ready to be prepared.
A cheesecloth, which is an important requirement for the tofu making process also comes with the press. Due to its design, you can use it to also make cheese.
Positives
Negatives
7. Soyajoy Premium Total Tofu Kit
Made from 100% bamboo, this product is set to be among those that last longer than some on this list.
Bamboo is the most water-friendly natural wood and helps in seeing to it that the Soyajoy Premium Total Tofu Kit lasts a long time.
Apart from just pressing tofu, this tofu press can also be used to mold and make fresh tofu, which often tastes much sweeter as compared to the ones bought from the shops.
The kit comes with a bamboo tofu press, cheesecloth and 1/2 lb of nigari which can give yield to 100 lbs of tofu.
Much of the design used by the company in the crafting of this press comes from customer suggestions and feedback from the previous model.
The press has a simple design, comes with a lid which can also be used to press.
The product is not only designed to look beautiful but also to last longer.
Negatives
As you've already gone through the reviews and have a good idea on this topic, I would like to give a shot on the overview of the whole tofu arena. Hopefully this part will help you to gather knowledge about tofu and its press and also will guide you to buy the perfect tofu press online and offline easily.
What is Tofu?
Also referred to as bean curd, tofu is a popular food made from coagulated soy milk which is then pressed into white solid blocks having varied softness.
The process can be compared to the traditional methods of preparing cheese blocks through curdling and solidifying milk.
Origin of Tofu
Just like many other soy foods, tofu is believed to have originated from China and has been used there for at least 2,000 years now. It was discovered by a Chinese cook who 'accidentally' curdled soy milk by adding nigari.
Ever since then, many people have used tofu in their meals as it adds not only taste to your meals but is also very much healthy.
Today, most of the world’s soybeans are grown in The United States of America, although a bigger proportion is genetically modified hence sparking an aggressive debate on how healthy it is. So far, little or no scientific research has proven that tofu has negative effects but much of the research has shown exactly how nutritious this product is. Tofu is very high in protein and also provides you with all essential amino acids. It has also been proven to provide fats & carbs, vitamins and a wide variety of other useful minerals.
What is Tofu Press?
A tofu press is a kitchen appliance that is used to dry tofu. There are 2 types of tofu presses; plate style and box style presses.
1. The Plate Designed Press
This type comes with two plastic or metallic plates that are pressed together to squeeze water from the tofu. They are simple to use making them the best option for new users.
When using this type of press, the tofu is placed between the plates. The 2 or 4 screws located on the sides are then tightened to press the upper and lower slabs against the tofu. However, you will need to keep tightening the screws as the tofu dries.
2. The Box Styled Press
These models are rectangular shaped plastic or metal boxes with tops that are spring loaded to press on the tofu inside. Unlike the plate designs, they do not need constant readjustment during the process. Although they are super convenient, using unevenly shaped tofu with it can lead to inconsistent results.
Pressing tofu can take between an hour to 4 hours depending on the type of tofu and the press you are using. Well-dried tofu can be used in various dishes and recipes to improve the flavor or make it more nutritious.
Tofu contains protein-rich minerals, and when dry, it can be flavored, marinated or dressed to make it tastier and crispier.
5 Tips on How to Choose the Best Tofu Press
Buying a new press can be challenging especially for someone looking for an appliance that meets his/her personal kitchen needs. To help you in making your choices, here are a few factors that you can consider when looking for a new tofu press.
1. Type
As mentioned earlier, there are 2 types of tofu press appliances, and each comes with its upsides and downsides.
The advantages of the plate designed presses are that they are cheaper and simple to use; they conserve space in your cabinet and can squeeze any shape or size of tofu. Unfortunately, you will need to regularly tighten the screws as your tofu shrinks during the process.
The box styled contraption, on the other hand, is ideal for someone who isn't around to continually check on the tofu. Once you place your tofu inside, it will press it to the end without any extra assistance from you.
The downside is that they are designed for use on tofu with rectangular shapes and sizes that fit in the box. They can also take up more space in your cabinet.
2. Durability
Durability is a key factor when shopping for any kitchen appliance. Tofu presses involve the application of extreme pressure to dry the tofu. Stainless steel tofu machines tend to last longer than plastic models as they are less likely to break from stress.
If you are going for a plastic model, ensure that it is government approved. The plastic should be BPA free and approved for use on food products.
3. Unique and extra features
Any extra features that can be provided by your tofu press are a great welcome. Some of these additional features include thermoplastic plastic – this kind of plastic withstands any changes in temperature. It will therefore not damage your product during the pressing process.
Some tofu press machines, such as the TofuXpress Gourmet, come with recipe books and cards for you to learn and create your own recipes from. If you are a newbie in preparation of meals using tofu, then this will serve you well.
There are tofu press boxes that can also be used as storage containers. They come with an extra lid that covers the top and keeps your tofu fresh and ready for use.
4. Dishwasher safe
When shopping for a tofu press, it is essential to consider whether the material is dishwasher safe. While most manufacturers work to ensure their products are dishwasher safe, there are some that require you to clean them after use personally. Other materials may wear out or damage the appliance when cleaned using a dishwasher.
5. Price
The price of a press depends on the size, model and type. Larger sizes can be used to dry tofu quantities for use in parties or large family gatherings, but they come at a higher price.
Plate style tofu presses are also cheaper than box styled ones while the designs that pack extra features may force you to part with an extra coin. When picking which tofu press to go for, choose the one with the most economical value in comparison to your use of it.
Ideas on Where to Buy Tofu Press
There are many online stores where you can order a press for tofu and have it delivered to your doorstep. Amazon.com is one of the best websites that sell different models of tofu presses with various features to suit your personal needs. Other top online sellers include eBay and aliexpress.com.
An extra tip to consider when online shopping for a tofu press, is reading the reviews on what other users are saying about their experience in using the appliance. Tofu presses can also be bought at local stores around you that sell kitchen and household appliances.
Final Verdict
A nicely made tofu meal is very delicious and you will always want more and more of it. This is, however, made possible by using a tofu press.
There are hundreds of such brands online and it might take you a long time before you settle on one of your choices.
A good tofu press should be able to meet your needs and has to be effective, easy to clean and should not also make a huge dent in your pocket. All recommended tofu presses in our list are of very high qualities and are the best in the market.
However, Super Press Machine is still the best tofu press in the market which guided us to include the press in the #1 list of our reviews..
We sure hope our post has given you an insight on what tofu is and what is the best tofu maker for your particular needs. You can check out videos on YouTube on how the above mentioned presses are used. Enjoy your next tofu meal!
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