How To Press Tofu (Without Fancy Equipment)

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If you’re making tofu-based recipes like sofritas (one of my personal faves!), learning how to press tofu is step one. But guess what? You don’t need any fancy tofu press. In fact, all you really need are 2 plates and a little patience.

How To Press Tofu

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide anyone can follow. No gadgets, no stress—just better, crispier, tastier tofu.

Why Press Tofu In The First Place

Tofu holds a lot of water—like, a surprising amount. If you don’t press it, that moisture can get in the way of browning, soaking up marinades, or even holding its shape when cooking. So pressing tofu helps it:

1. Get crispier in the pan or oven
2. Soak up more flavor
3. Hold its shape better in recipes like sofritas or stir-fry

What Kind Of Tofu Should You Press

Only press firm or extra-firm tofu. Silken or soft tofu is too delicate and will fall apart. I always keep a block of extra-firm tofu in the fridge—it’s the best all-rounder.

How To Press Tofu Without A Press (My Go-To Method)

Here’s what you need:

• 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu
• 2 clean plates or cutting boards
• Paper towels or a clean dish towel
• Something heavy: a book, a cast iron skillet, or a few canned goods

Step-By-Step

1. Drain the tofu – Remove it from the package and pour out any liquid.
2. Wrap it up – Use a clean dish towel or paper towels to wrap the tofu block
3. Sandwich it – Place the wrapped tofu on one plate. Top it with another plate or board.
4. Add weight – Carefully place your heavy object on top. I use a cast iron skillet or a cookbook.
5. Wait 20–30 minutes – You’ll see liquid start to soak through the towel. That’s exactly what you want!
6. Unwrap and cook – Now it’s ready to slice, cube, or crumble into your recipe.

This method also works:

Quick Tip If You’re In A Hurry

Don’t have 30 minutes? Press your tofu for 10–15 minutes and pat it dry before cooking. It won’t be perfect, but it’ll still taste great. This is what I do on a weeknight when I’m rushing to get dinner on the table.

What To Make With Pressed Tofu:

• My easy sofritas (spicy, saucy, protein-packed)
• Sheet pan tofu and veggies
• Crispy air fryer tofu bites
• Vegan tofu tacos
• Stir-fried tofu with broccoli or bok choy

Once you start pressing tofu, it seriously changes your game. Crispy tofu isn’t just for restaurants anymore—you’ve got this!

More Vegan Cooking Tips

• 11 Foods Healthy Vegans Eat
• Best Vegan Swaps
• Vegan Protein 101
• What to Eat in a Day as a New Vegan
• Vegan Meals for Beginners

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