Tofu, also known as bean curd, is made of condensed soy milk that pressed into white blocks. The best tofu press will extract this soy milk from tofu quickly and easily. Once pressed of this liquid, tofu absorbs the flavors of the marinade it’s immersed in like a sponge. It will also bake or fry more effectively. The result is more flavorful dishes.
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Tofu Press Comparison Table
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Top 6 Tofu Press Reviews
Tofu has been eaten in China for over 2000 years and still remains a favorite Asian cuisine. However, it’s also gained popularity in Western culture as well. Tofu is high in protein and low in calories making it a popular food choice among the health conscious crowd.
Choosing the right tofu press is essential if you want the best results. There’s no one size fits all. We carefully researched different models using the following criteria: overall design, pressing time, materials, convenience, maintenance, and product warranties.
Each one on our list meets very unique needs and offers different features. Our in-depth review will help you find the right one that truly suits you.
1. YARKOR Tofu Press
The Super Tofu Press uses high-quality plastic plates to squeeze water out of tofu. These plates are secured by foot pads that keep them in place when the press is in use. The top plate features two adjustable threaded knobs for simple pressing.
This product also has springs to help apply strong and consistent pressure to tofu. That means you don’t have to worry about applying any pressure by hand. All you have to do is turn the knobs a few times and the tofu is ready in 15 minutes or less.
This press features BPA free HDPE plastic that is FDA approved for food use. The environmentally friendly plastic is non-porous so it’s not susceptible to water damage. Each durable plate is heavy-duty and built to resist cracking.
The screws, springs, and other metal parts of this tofu press are made from food-grade stainless steel. This metal is considered a top pick for any kitchen appliance. The springs are guaranteed to withstand 50,000 cycles so you get excellent value with this tofu press.
You turn the adjustable threaded knobs to apply 100% of the pressure needed. There’s no straining or manual work aside from that. The springs keep the plates firmly in place so tofu is continuously pressed.
Key Details
This press weighs only 1.2 pounds, but it’s still very durable. It measures 8.5 x 4.5 x 5 inches and can easily fit a standard block of firm or extra firm tofu.
It only takes 10 to 15 minutes to press a block of firm or extra firm tofu. Once you’re done pressing, the tofu is ready for seasoning, marinating, and cooking. It can also be used to press foods like paneer, a homemade Indian cheese.
It’s important to know that you have to adjust the knobs periodically as water is pressed from the tofu. This means you’ll need to check on the tofu a few times during the 10 to 15-minute process. While this is typical for any plate-style press, it’s worth noting.
This press only has two knobs while some have four. Four-knob presses can apply more pressure and they are known to work faster. But this tofu press works very quickly so this shouldn’t be an issue.
You can rinse this tofu press in warm water or put it in the top rack of your dishwasher for easy cleaning.
This product is backed by a 60-day unconditional guarantee by the manufacturer. If you dislike it for any reason, you can return it for a full refund. This is reassuring if you’re hesitant to invest in one.
Pros
- Pressed tofu in 10 to 15 minutes.
- Tension springs guaranteed for 50,000 cycles.
- Top rack dishwasher safe.
- BPA free HDPE food-grade plastic.
- Unconditional manufacturer’s guarantee for 60 days.
Cons
- 2-knob versus 4-knob design.
- Must adjust knobs periodically.
2. Best User-Friendly Pick-Tofu Press by Tofuture
This Tofu Press from Tofuture is compact and simple for fuss-free pressing. It’s made from high-quality, eco-friendly plastic and features a three-piece design. It’s totally hands-off once you set it up. There’s no adjusting knobs or applying pressure.
You simply place your tofu block into the inner draining tub. This green draining tub is placed inside the white outer container.
The green lid continuously presses the tofu when you pull the elastic bands around the hooks and push both handles down. You just place the press in the refrigerator and it’ll do the work for you.
This press is made from BPA free plastic that can withstand hot and cold temperatures. There are only three pieces to the press. The green lid features the handles, hooks, and bands needed for pressing tofu.
The green middle container features perforations; this is where you place the block of tofu. The bottom white container holds water and also doubles as a marinade container.
All you need to do is follow the simple steps listed above. When you’re ready to cook the tofu, you release the bands by opening the handles, removing the block of tofu, pouring out the water, and you’re all set. You can marinade your tofu or cook it immediately.
Key Details
This model is the lightest one on our list at 3.52 ounces and measures 6.9 x 5.5 x 3.7 inches. The dimensions are slightly larger than other models, but it’s still very compact. Storage is easy since all of the pieces stack together.
The main downside to this press is that it takes longer to press tofu. The manufacturer’s website says you should press for at least four hours to make stir fry or baked tofu. This is considerably longer than other presses.
Fortunately, you can simply prep your meal ahead of time and store the press in the fridge. For dishes like sauces or dips, you only need to press the tofu for 15 to 20 minutes. For dishes such as pies, you press the tofu for 1-2 hours.
Cleaning this press is a breeze. All three pieces are dishwasher safe, and there are no crevices that require extra scrubbing. This model makes working with tofu so convenient from start to finish.
The manufacturer offers helpful return/refund and replacement policies. You can return your unused press within 30 days if you change your mind about the purchase.
Once your return is approved, a refund will be processed. If your press needs replacement for any reason, contact the manufacturer for an immediate replacement.
Pros
- Simple three-piece design.
- No adjusting knobs or manual pressing.
- Easy to clean and store.
- 30 day return policy.
Cons
- Takes longer to press tofu.
- Slightly larger dimensions with no collapsible storage.
3. Best Stainless Steel Pick- Tofu Press (Ninja) by Raw Rutes
This tofu press from Raw Rutes has a very unique design that makes it stand out. The entire unit is made from stainless steel and consists of a container and a pressing weight.
The weight is simply placed on top of the tofu to squeeze water out. You don’t have to turn knobs or apply pressure yourself.
It takes as little as 15 minutes for this press to prepare a block of tofu. The stainless steel container has four small openings for water to drain out. You’re free to prepare other ingredients and food thanks to the hands-off design.
The weight of this sleek tofu press applies five pounds of pressure to tofu. The weight and container are crafted from FDA approved stainless steel that features a polished finish. There are no springs, bands, or other small parts to worry about.
Key Details
The total weight of this press is 6.0 pounds and it measures 4.1 x 3.1 x 2.5 inches. It’s compact enough for easy storage but it doesn’t collapse to save space. This generally isn’t an issue due to the small design. You should also hand wash this press with warm water as it’s not dishwasher safe.
This ‘set it and forget it’ press means there’s zero effort on your part. The weight is set on a tofu block and it applies plenty of even pressure.
Up to 35% of the tofu’s total weight in water is removed. Therefore, your tofu is totally ready to absorb any flavors you choose.
The main drawback to this press is the high price tag. It costs about 3 to 5 times more than other tofu presses on our list.
This product is backed by a great lifetime warranty. Raw Rutes will repair or replace your tofu press in the event that it stops working correctly. The warranty is only void if the press is misused.
Pros
- Made from FDA approved stainless steel.
- No need for manual pressing or turning screws.
- Can also be used to make homemade tofu.
- Lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Pricier than other tofu presses.
- Doesn’t collapse for space-saving storage.
4. TOFUTAMER Four Post Tofu Press
The Simple Drip Tofu Press really stands out from many 2-spring tofu presses. It’s unlike a standard plate-style press because the bottom plate has holes for water drippings and faster pressing. The press comes with a bottom drip tray to catch water.
The drip tray is mess-free. The design means you don’t have to place the press in a container to hold the water. Cleanup is easier because you have fewer dishes to take care of. The holes on the bottom plate also speed up the pressing time by helping the water drain.
This model is made from FDA approved BPA-free plastic and food grade stainless steel. It features a standard top plate for pressing, a bottom plate with perforations, and a detachable drip tray.
This tofu press can also be used to press fruits, vegetables, and other foods. There’s also enough space to hold and press cubed or sliced tofu, so you aren’t limited to a standard tofu block. The multi-purpose design gives this tofu press even more value.
Key Details
At 2.09 pounds, this press is light and compact. It measures 11.5 x 7.4 x 7.4 inches.
The bottom plate and drip tray are what make this tofu press unique. Most bottom plates are solid plastic, and you place the press in a container to hold water as it’s pressed. The drip tray attaches easily to the bottom plate to catch water as it is pressed through the plate’s holes.
It’s also important to note that the manufacturer doesn’t state how long the tofu press takes to press. This is somewhat inconvenient, but other plate-style 2-spring presses take about 15 minutes. You should be able to see how long it typically takes after one use.
The entire unit is top rack dishwasher-safe. So you can easily clean it. However, the pieces of this press are not detachable for flat storage. It’s a fairly small kitchen appliance, so you likely won’t have trouble storing it.
This product is backed by a 100% money back guarantee. Therefore, it may help you feel more confident about giving it a shot.
Pros
- Bottom plate has holes for draining.
- Detachable drip tray for catching water.
- 100% money back guarantee.
Cons
- Pieces are not detachable for flat storage.
- Press time is not listed.
5. Best Versatile Pick-Gourmet Tofu Press by TofuXpress
This box-style press from TofuXpress may be a good fit if you’re looking for one that’s multi-functional. You can press tofu, vegetables, fruit, rice, and more with this model.
You can also use this product to press liquid out of vegetables such as thawed chopped spinach and shredded cabbage. It also works with fruits and rice as long as they’re cooked or thawed. You get the perks of multiple kitchen tools from this single product.
It also doubles as a spacious marinating dish. It has an optional tension spring attachment to work with foods such as cheese or yogurt.
Despite being so versatile, this press has a pleasantly simple design. You simply place a block of tofu into the container, put the solid plate on top, and press it down to attach to two lever-style hooks. Then your work is complete and the tofu presser gets the job done.
This press is made from FDA approved thermoplastic and stainless steel for a simple yet durable design. There are no knobs or wing-nuts to turn. So all you have to do is attach the hooks so the solid plate applies pressure. You then tip the water out once the tofu is done pressing.
Key Details
This press is fairly light at 1.05 pounds and measures 5 x 5 x 5 inches. When it’s not in use, all of the pieces stack together neatly for convenient storage.
This product also comes with a marinating lid, an instruction pamphlet, and a recipe guide. These bonus items further add to the great value of this product.
The manufacturer also offers many tofu-based recipes on their website. If you don’t like any of the recipes there, you can check out some of these cookbooks for interesting crockpot recipes to experiment with.
The one inconvenient thing about this product is that it doesn’t press tofu quickly. It takes several hours or overnight in the refrigerator to fully press water.
So if you meal prep in advance and store food in airtight containers, this may not be an issue. But if you’d like to press tofu fast, this press won’t be ideal for you.
The manufacturer has provided detailed care and cleaning tips for this tofu press on their website. You can find them here. Additionally, the manufacturer provides a one-year limited warranty on this product. You can confidently try out this press and all that it has to offer.
Pros
- Can press vegetables and other foods.
- Doubles as a marinade dish for tofu.
- One-year limited manufacturer warranty.
Cons
- Takes several hours to press tofu.
- Parts are fragile.
6. Best Budget Pick-EZ Tofu Press by EZ Tofu Press
The EZ Tofu Press is a great option if you’re on a tight budget. This model is less expensive than other brands, but it still offers the same results.
You can easily press tofu in 15 minutes or less. It features a popular plate-style design and uses tension for effective water removal.
This model has two large screws and wing nuts to tighten the press. This design is similar to Super Tofu Press but it doesn’t use springs and has a lower price tag. This press uses food grade materials that are made to last.
The two rectangular plates are made from USDA approved and BPA free plastic. There are helpful centering marks on the bottom press plate to show you where to properly place a tofu block. The bolts, nuts, and other small parts are made of food grade stainless steel.
This product presses tofu in 5-15 minutes. You simply put the tofu block into place and turn the two large knobs every 2-3 minutes. The gradual tension makes the press push the water out of the tofu. The quick prep time makes tofu preparation more convenient.
Key Details
This model is lightweight but sturdy. It weighs 1.1 pounds and measures 9 x 5.8 x 4 inches. It can be used with most standard sized tofu bricks, and it can also press sliced portions.
This high-quality press offers the essentials you need at an affordable price. You get the same results as pricier plate models – evenly pressed and dried tofu that’s ready to cook.
Cleaning is simple. You can wash it by hand with hot soapy water or place it on the top rack of your dishwasher. The quality materials ensure the press stays in good condition.
However, it’s worth noting that this press is not collapsible for easier storage. It solely uses screws instead of springs, so it’ll take up slightly more space.
Fortunately, it’s still compact enough to fit into any kitchen cabinet. The main downside to this press is that the manufacturer does not mention any type of warranty or guarantee.
Pros
- Presses tofu in 5-15 minutes.
- USDA approved and BPA free plastic plates.
- Durable food-grade stainless steel parts.
- Same results as other presses but for a lower price.
Cons
- No warranty or guarantee.
- Doesn’t collapse for easy storage.
Tofu Press Buying Guide
Every tofu press is made to do the same thing- press tofu until the liquid comes out. But that doesn’t mean they’re all alike. A quick glance at our list shows you how different each one looks. In addition to unique looks, each press performs differently and has unique aspects. Here is a look at how one works:
Our buying guide covers every facet to consider so you can choose the press that’s perfect for you.
How to Select a Tofu Press
The model you buy should meet your specific needs. Perhaps you want one that’s low-maintenance and simple. Maybe a metal one suits you better than plastic. Getting the most out of your purchase is essential. You should consider the features below before you make your decision.
Plate-Style Press
Plate-style presses like Super Tofu Press feature two metal or plastic plates. You tighten the plates and apply pressure to tofu using tension knobs. This type of press has either two or four adjustable knobs. You place a block of tofu between the plates and turn the knobs to remove water.
You adjust the knobs periodically because the tofu block shrinks when water is pressed out. This process typically takes anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes total. You can usually press tofu of any thickness, shape, or size with a plate-style press.
Box-Style Press
Box-style tofu presses feature a plastic or metal container and one weighted or spring-loaded top plate. You place a block of tofu inside the container and assemble the weight or top plate based on the instructions. Once it’s assembled, the plate applies continuous pressure to a block of tofu to remove water.
Box-style presses are convenient because you don’t have to keep adjusting the plates using knobs. However, they are usually just designed to press a standard rectangular block of tofu. This may limit your options if you plan to work with other types of tofu. Otherwise, it shouldn’t be an issue.
Press Material
Tofu presses are usually made from plastic or metal. BPA-free plastic that is FDA approved for food use is ideal if you buy a plastic press. Stainless steel is a common pick for metal presses. It’s very durable and easy to clean. Some presses are wooden, but these are less common.
The springs, screws, nuts, and bolts of a tofu press are usually stainless steel. Tofu doesn’t come into contact with these parts but you can opt for a press that uses food-grade stainless steel. The adjustable knobs on a plate-style press may be plastic or metal.
Ease Of Use
Ease of use is something many buyers consider before buying a tofu press. Some may find one press is very user-friendly while others feel differently. Box-style presses are generally considered easier to use but plate presses usually produce results faster.
If you want a ‘set it and forget it’ press, consider one of the box-style presses on our list. If you don’t mind adjusting the knobs a few times, then a plate-style press is worth considering. Tofu presses are all designed to make pressing tofu an easy experience compared to hand pressing and do-it-yourself methods.
Maintenance
Some presses require more maintenance than others. Most of them are top-rack dishwasher safe, but some have small crevices that may require some manual cleaning.
Other maintenance factors to consider are assembly and parts. Do you want a press that’s ready to use out of the box? Many models are like this but some may require assembly. Also, make note of the screws and other parts in the event that they need replacement.
Warranty Or Guarantee
A manufacturer warranty or guarantee is a very important detail to consider before you buy. Some presses such as the Raw Rutes Ninja are backed by lifetime warranties. Other models have a one-year limited warranty, and some manufacturers offer 30 to 60-day guarantees where you can return an unused press.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do you press tofu?
A: It depends on the tofu press you use. Each one cites a different pressing time. However, about 15 minutes of pressing is common with plate-style presses. Box-style presses usually press tofu for several hours or overnight.
Q: What is a tofu press?
A: A tofu press is a contraption that removes the maximum amount of liquid from tofu with minimal effort. When water is removed, tofu can absorb flavor more easily and it has a greater texture. Manual pressing with paper towels, plates, cookware, and other heavy objects is time-consuming and messy.
Q: Does silken tofu need to be pressed?
A: No, silken tofu does not need to be pressed. It is a very soft form of tofu that crumbles easily. Pressing silken tofu could ruin it. Therefore, it’s ready to use right out of the package. If you really want to remove any excess water from silken tofu, you can very gently hand press it with paper towels.
Q: Can you buy tofu already pressed?
A: Tofu that is already pressed is not easily found in most grocery stores. It is usually sold in Asian grocery stores. This type of tofu is extremely firm and requires longer cooking times. It’s often considered too firm for stir fry and similar dishes.
Q: How do you use a tofu press?
A: Each press has specific directions but the general process is the same. You place a block of tofu into the press container or between the pressing plates. Follow the instructions to apply pressure and remove water.
Some presses require you to periodically adjust pressure. Others use weight to remove the water, so you don’t have to do much work. Once the tofu is pressed for the instructed amount of time, it is ready for marinating, seasoning and cooking.
It’s a big plus if you can crush your spices fresh using a spice grinder when preparing your seasoning. It adds a great deal of flavor and intensity to the tofu.
Q: How long can you marinate tofu?
A: You can marinate tofu for any amount of time you’d like. Once tofu is pressed, it’s ready to fully absorb marinades. If you purchase a box-style tofu press, the container may also be used for marinating. Some presses can remove excess marinade prior to cooking it.
Conclusion
Tofu presses are excellent tools for thoroughly removing liquid from tofu so that it’s more flavorful, textured and easier to cook. They also take away the time-consuming process of manual pressing with paper towels and heavy objects. You get many benefits from this affordable kitchen appliance.
Our Best Pick (Super Tofu Press) is a great plate-style press that’s easy to use and removes water very quickly. Overall, this press is affordable, simple, and effective.
If a plate-style press doesn’t suit you, consider our Best Stainless Steel Pick (Tofu Press Ninja).
Buying a tofu press is a great decision if you want to prepare tofu easily and getter better end results. We hope that after reading our detailed tofu press reviews and comprehensive buying guide, you’ll have all the information you need to select the best tofu press that is perfect for your kitchen.
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