How To Press Tofu Without A Press (+ Infographic)

If you’re cooking with tofu—especially in dishes like sofritas, stir-fries, or crispy baked cubes—there’s one step you really can’t skip: pressing the tofu.

And no, you don’t need a special tofu press. In fact, you can press tofu using just 3 things you already have in your kitchen. Here’s how to do it the easy way.

How To Press Tofu Without A Press

Why You Need To Press Tofu

Tofu is full of water, and that extra moisture gets in the way when you’re trying to get crispy, flavorful results. Pressing helps:

1. Remove excess water
2. Improve texture
3. Help tofu soak up marinades better

Even just pressing for 15–20 minutes makes a difference.

What You’ll Need (No Press Required)

• A block of firm or extra-firm tofu
• A clean dish towel or a few layers of paper towel
• Two plates (or cutting boards)
• A heavy object (like a cast iron pan, big book, or canned goods)

Step-By-Step: How To Press Tofu Without A Press

1. Drain the tofu – Open the package and pour out the liquid.
2. Wrap it up – Use a dish towel or a few paper towels to wrap the tofu.
3. Sandwich it – Set the wrapped tofu on a plate or cutting board, and place another plate on top for security (optional).
4. Weigh it down – Put something heavy on top—think a cast iron pan, a marble mortal and pestle, a couple of cans, or even a stack of books.
5. Wait 20–30 minutes – Let it sit while the towel absorbs the moisture.
6. Unwrap and use – Once pressed, slice, cube, or crumble it into your recipe!

What To Make With Pressed Tofu

• Easy sofritas (a fave in our house!)
• Tofu stir-fry with veggies
• Baked tofu nuggets
• Crispy pan-fried tofu bites
• Tofu curry bowls
• Vegan tacos with spiced tofu crumbles

Or browse through these 50 yummy tofu recipes!

Once you’ve done this once or twice, it becomes second nature. No need for gadgets—just good tofu and a couple kitchen basics.

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