27 Vegan Silken Tofu Recipes (2024)

This collection of Silken Tofu Recipes is sure to inspire and have you excited to get into the kitchen! From breakfast to dessert and everything in between, there's something here for everyone. Featuring 27 delicious recipe ideas from some of my favorite vegan bloggers!

27 Vegan Silken Tofu Recipes (1)

Silken tofu is truly one of our favorite ingredients because of its versatility and mild flavor. It works well in so many different types of recipes and is especially valuable when you're ditching dairy and eggs!

Read on to learn a bit more and find delicious vegan recipes to make with silken tofu!

Jump to:
  • What is silken tofu?
  • Types of Silken Tofu
  • Silken Tofu Nutrition
  • 27 Best Silken Tofu Recipes
  • More Tofu Recipes
  • 💬 Comments

What is silken tofu?

Silken tofu is a type of tofu that has a delicate and smooth texture, similar to custard or pudding.

It is made from soy milk, just like other types of tofu, but it undergoes a different coagulation process.

Instead of being pressed and drained like firm or extra-firm tofu, silken tofu is coagulated directly in its container, which gives it a soft and silky consistency.

Because of the way it's made, silken tofu has a higher water content than the other types of tofu - firm, extra firm, and super firm.

Unlike these other types of tofu, silken tofu is very fragile and is not meant for pressing before use.

Silken tofu is sometimes referred to as Japanese-style tofu while the other types are considered to be Chinese-style tofu.

It's a truly versatile ingredient that can be used in so many recipes including desserts, smoothies, soups, dips, creamy sauces, and more!

You can blend the tofu for salad dressings and condiments or used as a dairy or egg replacer in various recipes. Silken tofu is one of my favorite staple ingredients in vegan cooking.

Types of Silken Tofu

Silken tofu is available refrigerated or in shelf-stable aseptic containers. The refrigerated blocks typically come in 14 to 16 oz. packages and are often located in the refrigerated section near the produce.

On the other hand, the shelf stable variety comes in 12-oz. packages and can usually be found on the International or Asian aisle of most grocery stores. Mori Nu is a common brand you may have seen. This type can also be purchased online.

In addition, the shelf-stable form of silken tofu is available in different levels of firmness depending on how much soy protein it contains with less protein leading to a softer consistency. The different types include soft, medium firm, firm and extra-firm.

Silken Tofu Nutrition

Silken tofu is lower in calories than the other types of tofu, ranging anywhere from 40-45 calories per serving depending on the brand. In fact, it has half the calories of extra firm tofu, which clocks in at around 90 calories per serving.

Silken tofu is also low in fat, ranging from 1.5 grams to 2 grams of fat per 3-oz serving, but high in protein with a range of 4-7 grams of protein for the same size serving.

Tofu is also a good source of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, as well as Vitamins C, A, E, B3, B6, and calcium. You can read more about it in this article on Tasting Table.

27 Best Silken Tofu Recipes

Whether you're already a fan of silken tofu or are trying it for the first time, you'll be sure to find some great ideas in this silken tofu recipe collection.

Breakfast

1. Silken Tofu Breakfast Pudding

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This tasty breakfast pudding is a great way to start your day! Easy to make in just 5 minuteswith a combination of silken tofu, frozen berries, spinach, chia seeds, and your favorite sweetener for a quick and nutritious morning meal!

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2. Protein Overnight Oats

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Silken tofu gives these overnight oats a boost of protein for a delicious morning meal that will keep you full until lunchtime! Prepare a batch in just 5 minutes, refrigerate overnight, and start your day with a nourishing and satisfying breakfast. Easy to customize with your favorite toppings and mix-ins!

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3. Vegan Pasta Frittata

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This delectable frittata doubles as a breakfast or dinner and is perfect for meal prep! Easy to make in under an hourwith a combination of pasta, veggies, extra firm tofu, and silken tofu!

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4. Silken Tofu Pancakes

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These flourless silken tofu pancakes are the perfect high-protein, plant-based breakfast that's every bit delicious as it is nutritious! Made with rolled oats instead of flour, these easy-to-make pancakes are also gluten-free.

5. Silken Tofu Scramble

You only need 10 minutes and a handful of ingredients to get this tasty tofu scramble on the table! Thanks to the combination of silken tofu and kala namak (aka black salt), this high-protein vegan scramble is reminiscent of the flavor and texture of traditional scrambled eggs without using any animal products.

6. Tofu Smoothie

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Rich in antioxidants, this superfood smoothie features a combination of silken tofu, fruits, veggies, cacao, and spirulina for a nutrient-dense breakfast or post-workout recovery drink!

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Appetizers and Sides

7. Sichuan Doufunao (Spicy Tofu Pudding)

27 Vegan Silken Tofu Recipes (8)

This popular Sichuan dish is a savory tofu pudding that combines the perfect amount of sweet, spicy, salty, and sour all in one! Easy to make in just 15 minutes and budget-friendly too!

8. Vegan Buffalo Chicken Dip

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A combination of white beans and silken tofu make the creamy base in this plant-based version of the party food favorite, while nutritional yeast and vegan cheese add the perfect level of cheesiness.

9. Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip

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This classic appetizer gets a vegan makeover with silken tofu replacing the cream cheese and mayo traditionally used, allowing for a low-calorie, low-fat dip that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

10. Silken Tofu with Spicy Soy Dressing

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Transform that block of silken tofu sitting in your pantry into the perfect party appetizer in just 5 minutes! This no-cook Asian-inspired dish is full of flavor but low in fat and calories.

11. Silken Tofu Salad

27 Vegan Silken Tofu Recipes (12)

This Japanese-style tofu salad is the perfect appetizer or side dish to pair with your favorite Asian-inspired main dishes. This flavorful salad is easy to make in just 15 minutes!

12. Easy Miso Soup

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This umami-packed soup is a popular restaurant dish that's easy to make at home in just 15 minutes! Serve as an appetizer or as a side with your favorite main dish!

Condiments With Silken Tofu

13. Vegan Tzatziki Sauce

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If you're looking for a vegan tzatziki that rivals the dairy-based version, then this recipe has your name all over it! Packed with the traditional flavors of garlic, lemon, dill, and cucumber, this plant-based dip is sure to be a hit!

14. Tofu Sour Cream

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You only need three ingredients and just two minutes to make this vegan sour cream! Perfect for dolloping on baked potatoes, using as a dip base, or adding to baked goods to keep them moist!

15. Silken Tofu Mayonnaise

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This 5-ingredient vegan mayo is easy to make in just minutes! Oil-free and low in calories and fat, it's perfect as a sandwich spread or as a base for dips and dressings!

Dinner Recipes

16. Vegan Carbonara

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Silken tofu and cashews come together to create the perfect creamy sauce for this protein-packed pasta dish! Easy to make in under 30 minutes, this hearty and deliciousmeal is great for busy weeknights!

17. Oil-Free Portobello Pizzas

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Silken tofu stars as the main ingredient in the homemade vegan mozzarella topping these tasty portobello pizzas. Low in calories and packed with nutrients,this easy recipe is a great way to enjoy pizza guilt-free! Serve as a main dish or appetizer.

18. Tofu Pasta Sauce

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This oil-free lemony pasta sauce is made creamy thanks to silken tofu! Easy to make and full of flavor, this savory sauce is a great addition to your favorite pasta noodles.

19. Tofu Mac & Cheese

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Silken tofu and veggies blend up together to create a perfectly creamy and healthy sauce in this easy vegan mac and cheese that's sure to become a family favorite!

Silken Tofu Desserts

20. Easy No-Bake Tofu Cheesecake

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Silken tofu, non-dairy milk, and cashews work together to form the base for this delightful vegan cheesecake! Easy to make in just 20 minutes, the creamy filling is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, tart, and vanilla-y.

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21. Tofu Protein Ice Cream

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Silken tofu and nut butter join forces to create the perfect protein-packed ice cream that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! Easy to prep in just 15 minutes with a handful of simple ingredients!

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22. Vegan Key Lime Pie

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While many non-dairy key lime pie recipes use coconut milk as a base, this one uses a combination of silken tofu, condensed oat milk, and cashews instead. Perfectly sweet and tart, this delectable pie is also both oil-free and gluten-free!

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23. Light Vegan Lemon Bars

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Thanks to silken tofu, these creamy, fresh and light lemon bars are much lower in fat than the traditional version! This no-bakerecipe is also gluten-free, nut-free, coconut-free, and oil-free, making it perfect for all types of eaters.

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24. Easy Vegan Tiramisu

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Silken tofu is the secret to making a creamy non-dairy mascarpone in this vegan tiramisu that's just as delicious as the classic version. Easy to prepare in just 30 minutes!

25. Cannoli Dip

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Cashews and silken tofu team up to replace the ricotta traditionally found in cannoli filling. This creamy dip features the authentic flavors of the original without any of the dairy and pairs perfectly with apples, cookies, pretzels, or waffle cone pieces!

26. Filipino Silken Tofu

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This classic Filipino treat is incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients. Known as taho, this Filipino dish combines silken tofu with a pandan-infused arnibal syrup and sago or tapioca pearls for a delightfully delicious dessert.

27. Healthy Chocolate Mousse

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This high-protein dessert is a nutritious way to satisfy your chocolate cravings! Silken tofu provides the creamy base while dates and maple syrup add natural sweetness to this decadent chocolate treat!

More Tofu Recipes

  • Vegan Tofu Quiche (Crustless)
  • One-Pan Apple Cider Tofu
  • Sweet and Sour Tofu
  • Cultured Tofu Yogurt

So, which of these silken tofu recipes are you planning to try first? Let me know in the comments below!

27 Vegan Silken Tofu Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What can I use silken tofu for? ›

Once you've got your silken tofu, here are five ways to put it to use.
  • Make it into a creamy sauce. ...
  • Fry it. ...
  • Slip into soup. ...
  • Top it with something punchy. ...
  • Make it into dessert.
Feb 10, 2021

Is silken tofu healthier than regular tofu? ›

For relatively similar serving sizes, the nutrition differences between silken and firm tofu are pretty big. Silken tofu contains only about half the calories and fat, while firm tofu contains over twice the protein. The reason for this is water content.

What not to mix with tofu? ›

What to not serve with tofu? According to studies, a high volume consumption of tofu and spinach together can increase your risk of kidney stones. Tofu and spinach contain calcium and oxalic acid respectively and the combined can form kidney stones.

Is soft tofu the same as silken tofu? ›

The terms “silken tofu” and “soft tofu” are often used interchangeably. Some say that soft tofu is the Chinese equivalent of silken tofu, and that it has a slightly firmer texture. Sprinkling salt onto slices of soft tofu. We generally use soft tofu and silken tofu interchangeably in our kitchen.

Do you need to cook silken tofu before eating? ›

You can eat raw tofu without cooking directly from the pack, but make sure that you drain off the excess water first because it does not add anything to the experience. Tofu is also called bean curd. It is a white, creamy, soft, relatively flavorless food product made from soybeans.

Can you eat silken tofu straight from the package? ›

While tofu comes in a variety of textures — silken, firm, and extra firm — technically any of them can be eaten raw. Before enjoying raw tofu, drain off any excess liquid from the packaging. It's also important to store tofu properly to prevent germs from growing on any unused portions.

Is there a downside to eating tofu? ›

Contains antinutrients

Like most plant foods, tofu contains several antinutrients. These compounds are naturally found in plant foods and lower your body's ability to absorb nutrients from food ( 6 ).

Is silken tofu anti inflammatory? ›

Tofu contains several anti-inflammatory, antioxidant phyto-chemicals making it a great addition to an anti-inflammatory diet. What is this? Tofu is also a good source of 'complete' plant protein, meaning that it has a well-balanced amino acid profile. It's also one of the most well-known plant-based sources of iron.

Can silken tofu replace eggs? ›

The ability of silken tofu to quickly liquify makes it an ideal substitute for eggs and cream when baking cakes, cookies, brownies and muffins. Tofu is simply curdled soy milk, so heating and adding liquid result in a similar consistency that's also creamy, moist and rich.

Why can't you eat spinach with tofu? ›

- It is said that tofu cannot be eaten together with spinach at the same time. As tofu and spinach contain calcium and oxalic acid respectively, the combination of the two will form kidney stones. But in fact, only prolonged and volumionous consumption of tofu and spinach at the same time will pose this risk.

Can you eat eggs and tofu together? ›

By stretching an egg with a little tofu, you reduce the cholesterol and saturated fat. Try tucking it into a whole-wheat pita pocket for a simple and satisfying breakfast sandwich-and a healthful alternative to fast-food fare.

Does tofu affect your stomach? ›

Yes, a soy allergy can cause stomach issues. You may have stomach cramps, indigestion, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting if you have soy intolerance, which is different than a soy allergy.

Can you freeze silken tofu? ›

Freezing tofu is easy and you can freeze any variety — it doesn't matter if it's silken, firm, or extra-firm. All you have to do is cut the tofu into cubes the size of your choosing, freeze them solid on a baking sheet, and store them in a freezer container until you're ready to defrost and cook.

What is another name for silken tofu? ›

Silken tofu, also known as Japanese-style tofu, is silky, creamy and has the highest water content.

How to pan fry silken tofu? ›

Sear one side for about 6 minutes until a slight brown, then flip and sear the other side for the same amount of time. Place pan-seared tofu on a plate or bowl and carefully dab with a paper towl to remove excess water and oil. Using the same skillet, heat scallion soy sauce over med-low heat until slightly simmering.

How long does silken tofu last in the fridge? ›

How long does tofu last in the fridge? If it's unopened, you should just go by the use by date on the pack, which will give you the best idea of the shelf life. If it's opened, refrigerated tofu is generally good for 3 to 5 days, as long as you've stored it properly.

Can I just eat silken tofu? ›

Soft and silken tofu are ready to go right out of the package (though, technically, any tofu can be eaten raw). Drain off the excess water, and eat up! Draining/Blotting: For block tofu, I like to slit the package and drain out the packing water.

Does silken tofu taste different? ›

Finally, there's a taste and texture difference. Silken tofu has a pudding-like quality. It's very light in texture with a wonderful, creamy mouthfeel and fatty flavor that comes from making it with denser, richer soy milk. It's like the difference between using low-fat milk and cream.

Why use silken tofu? ›

Silken tofu can replicate that super smooth, decadent experience you get with any good butterscotch pudding, New York-style cheesecake, or chocolate cream pie. When blended with sugar, flavoring elements, and a thickener such as cashews or cornstarch, tofu easily amalgamates into a silken batter.

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