Should I use old tofu or tender tofu for iron plate tofu

It is recommended to use aged tofu for iron plate tofu. The texture of aged tofu is compact and not easily broken, making it suitable for high-temperature frying; Tender tofu has a lot of moisture and is easy to disperse, making it more suitable for cold mixing or stewing. The two types of tofu have significant differences in taste, oil absorption, and formability, and should be selected according to cooking needs. When using aged tofu, the protein and calcium content of the iron plate tofu is higher. After high-temperature frying, the outer skin is crispy and the inner layer is dense, which can better absorb the flavor of the sauce. The pore structure of old tofu makes it less likely to stick to the pan during frying, resulting in a complete shape and strong satiety in the finished product. The moisture content of tender tofu exceeds 85%, and direct high-temperature frying can easily break and release water, causing a sudden drop in the temperature of the iron plate and affecting the taste. However, the delicate texture of tender tofu is suitable for making iron plate tofu soup dishes.

Tender tofu is rich in soy isoflavones and vitamin E, which result in less nutrient loss during rapid cooking, making it suitable for people who pursue a melt in the mouth texture. Its low calorie properties are suitable for people who want to lose weight, but when frying, it needs to be wrapped in starch or egg mixture to set. Old tofu undergoes more Maillard reaction during the process of teppanyaki, forming a unique burnt flavor, but those with weaker digestive function may feel that the texture is harder. When making iron plate tofu, it is recommended to soak the old tofu in salt water in advance to enhance its toughness, and steam the tender tofu for 5 minutes to drain the water. Pairing with vegetables such as green and red peppers and onions can balance nutrition, and controlling the oil temperature at around 180 degrees can reduce the production of harmful substances. People with gastrointestinal sensitivity should reduce the frequency of frying and switch to air fryers for healthier cooking. No matter which type of tofu you choose, it is recommended to pair it with ingredients rich in vitamin C to promote iron absorption.