How to Cook Tofu 5 Different Ways—Including Grilled, Fried, and More

Thanks to its neutral flavor and range of textures, from silken to extra-firm, tofu is an endlessly versatile ingredient. From a lemon-black pepper dressing to a peanut-soy sauce, tofu goes well with just about anything. Plus, if you’re a vegetarian, or just trying to eat less meat, tofu is a great source of protein. We tend to opt for extra-firm tofu, which has the least amount of water, preserving its shape and encouraging it to crisp up. Here, we’re sharing five easy methods so you can learn how to cook tofu at home, from grilling to air-frying. 

How to Grill Tofu

Grill your tofu for a charred exterior and custardy interior in no time at all. Keep it simple, or try this Tofu Asada With Caramelized Onion Refried Beans, which is spiced with chili, garlic, and onion powders.

1. Place a block of extra-firm tofu between kitchen towels, then set a heavy object, like a cast-iron pan, on top of it to remove extra liquid from the tofu. About 30 minutes of pressure should do the trick. 
2. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (roughly 350-400 degrees), and clean and grease the grates so that the tofu doesn’t stick.
3. Slice the tofu into ½-inch slabs and brush with a marinade, or just with olive oil and salt, then place it on the grill.
4. Grill for about 2-3 minutes, or until the tofu releases easily, then flip it to the other side and grill for about 2-3 minutes more. Both sides should be nicely browned.
5. Remove tofu from the grill and serve.

How to Cook Tofu in the Oven

Cooking tofu in the oven is easy and mess-free. Press the tofu while you preheat the oven, so it’s ready to roast as soon as the oven is hot. 

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees, and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place a block of extra-firm tofu between kitchen towels, then set a heavy object, like a cast-iron pan, on top of it to remove extra liquid from the tofu. About 30 minutes of pressure should do the trick. 
3. Slice the tofu into ½-inch slabs and brush with a marinade, or just with olive oil and salt, then place it on the baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast in the oven for about 25 minutes, or until nicely browned.
5. Remove tofu from the oven and serve.
   

How to Cook Tofu on the Stove

Tofu crisps up beautifully on the stovetop, so if you’re looking for a golden crust, this method is a good go-to. For quick, even cooking, give the tofu plenty of space in the skillet.

1. Place a block of extra-firm tofu between kitchen towels, then set a heavy object, like a cast-iron pan, on top of it to remove extra liquid from the tofu. About 30 minutes of pressure should do the trick. 
2. Heat a couple tablespoons of neutral cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Slice the tofu into ½ inch-slabs and brush with a marinade, or just with olive oil and salt.
4. Carefully add the tofu to the skillet in a single layer, spacing the pieces out. (Cook them in batches if needed.)
5. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tofu is nicely browned.
6. Remove tofu from the skillet and serve.

How to Cook Tofu in an Instant Pot

Since tofu is quick-cooking and somewhat fragile, it’s not the best fit for an Instant Pot, which handles hearty braises like a dream. That said, if you’re set on using your Instant Pot, you can easily do so by using the ‘Sauté’ function to mimic a regular skillet.

1. Place a block of extra-firm tofu between kitchen towels, then set a heavy object, like a cast iron pan, on top of it to remove extra liquid from the tofu. About 30 minutes of pressure should do the trick. 
2. Slice the tofu into ½ inch-slabs and brush with a marinade, or just with olive oil and salt. 
3. Select the ‘Sauté’ setting on the Instant Pot, and let it heat up for a bit. Once it’s hot, add a couple tablespoons of neutral cooking oil. 
4. Add the tofu to the Instant Pot in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tofu is nicely browned.
5. Remove tofu from the Instant Pot and serve.
   

How to Cook Tofu in an Air Fryer

For the crispiest tofu in 15 minutes or less, pop it in the air fryer. You get the irresistible taste of fried tofu, without the mess of oil splashes and stains.

1. Place a block of extra-firm tofu between kitchen towels, then set a heavy object like, a cast-iron pan, on top of it to remove extra liquid from the tofu. About 30 minutes of pressure should do the trick. 
2. Spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
3. Slice the tofu into ½ inch-slabs and brush with a marinade, or just with olive oil and salt.
4. Add the tofu to the air fryer basket in a single layer. (Cook the pieces in batches if needed.)
5. Set the air fryer to 400 degrees and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the tofu is browned and crispy. Flip the tofu halfway through to ensure even cooking.
6. Remove tofu from the air fryer and serve.