How Long Does Cooked Tofu Last In The Fridge? Resolved

Last Updated on September 12, 2024 by Shari Mason

Using tofu in your cooking is a delicious and healthy way to add flavor to any meal.

But how long does it last in the fridge, and how can you tell if it has gone bad?

In this blog post, we will answer these questions and provide some tips for storing cooked tofu.

How Long Is Cooked Tofu Good For In The Fridge?

Tofu is relatively shelf-stable, and cooked tofu will usually remain good for three to four days in the fridge. However, there are a few things to remember when storing tofu.

First, it is important to store the tofu in an airtight container. This will help to prevent the tofu from drying out or absorbing flavors from other foods.

Second, the tofu should be covered with water. This will help to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.

Finally, it is important to change the water every day. This will help to keep the tofu fresh and prevent it from developing bacteria.

When stored properly, cooked tofu will remain fresh and safe for three to four days. But how long can cooked chicken wings last in the refrigerator?

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes. Freezing tofu can help to improve its texture and make it more suitable for certain dishes. 

When frozen, tofu takes on a crumbly texture that is perfect for adding to stir-fries or soups. It also absorbs flavors more easily, a great way to add flavor to your favorite recipes. 

If you have cooked tofu that you need to store, place it in an airtight container and freeze it for up to three months.

When thawing tofu, it is best to place it in the refrigerator overnight. Tofu that has been frozen and thawed may have a slightly different texture than fresh tofu, but it can still be used in many recipes.

Read: How Long Can Cooked Mushrooms Last In The Fridge?

How To Cook Tofu

Removing as much water as possible is important to prepare tofu for cooking. Tofu comes packaged in water, so drain it before use. Place the block of tofu on a plate lined with paper towels and press down gently to absorb excess water. 

If you are using extra-firm tofu, you may also want to press it between two plates lined with paper towels to get rid of even more water. Once the tofu has been pressed, it is ready to be cooked.

There are many ways to cook tofu, depending on your preference. Tofu can be grilled, baked, fried, or even eaten raw. 

Marinating it first will help give it flavor if you are grilling or baking tofu. Tofu absorbs flavors well, so experiment with different seasonings or marinades to find one you like. 

Fried tofu is a popular option in Asian cuisine and can be served alone or added to stir-fries or soup. Raw tofu can be cubed and added to salads or wraps for a healthy and flavorful meal.

But how long can cooked corn last in the fridge?

What Can You Do With Leftover Cooked Tofu?

Tofu can be added to soup or chili for extra protein. It’s also great in pasta dishes, stir-fries, and veggie wraps.

Leftover tofu can be cubed and added to salads or grain bowls—tofu pairs especially well with Asian-inspired flavors like ginger, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.

Tofu can also be used as a replacement for meat in virtually any recipe. Try using diced tofu instead of ground beef in tacos or spaghetti sauce. Or use thinly sliced tofu instead of chicken or pork in your favorite stir-fry recipe.

Finally, don’t forget that tofu makes a great dessert! Tofu pudding [1] is a popular treat in many Asian cultures, and it’s easy to make at home. Combine cooked tofu with milk, sugar, and flavorings like vanilla or chocolate extract. Then blend until smooth and enjoy.

Signs That It Has Gone Bad

The first sign is a color change. It has likely gone bad if the tofu is no longer white or pale yellow.

Another sign is a change in texture. If the tofu is becoming mushy or crumbly, it is no longer safe to eat.

Finally, cooked tofu that has gone bad will usually have an off odor. If the tofu smells sour or spoiled, it should be discarded.

Tips On Storing Cooked Tofu

• Tofu should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Cooked tofu will last for up to four days in the refrigerator.
• If you are not planning on eating the tofu within four days, it can be frozen for up to six months.
• To thaw frozen tofu, place it in the refrigerator overnight or run it under cold water for a few minutes.
• When reheating tofu, heat it until it steams hot through.

FAQs

How long does opened tofu last?

It can last in the fridge for about a week. If you freeze it, it will last for about two months.

How long does tofu last in water?

Tofu can last in water for about a week. Change the water every day to keep it fresh.

How long does raw tofu last in the fridge?

Tofu generally lasts about a week in the fridge. However, it will only last for about three days if it is smoked or spiced.

Can you get sick from eating old tofu?

Yes, you can get sick from eating old tofu. Tofu is a high-protein food made from soybeans, and it can spoil fairly quickly if it’s not stored properly.

The fermentation process that makes tofu soft also produces lactic acid, a type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning.

Symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. If you experience these symptoms after eating tofu, please see your doctor immediately.

In Conclusion

So, how long does cooked tofu last in the fridge? Usually 3-5 days, as long as it’s stored correctly.

If you’re ever unsure whether your tofu has gone bad, give it a sniff and trust your gut – if it smells off, don’t risk eating it.

Tofu is a versatile, delicious protein enjoyed in many different dishes. With proper storage, it can last for several days in the fridge.

So go ahead and enjoy cooked tofu guilt-free.

Reference:

1. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/174343/chocolate-banana-tofu-pudding/