World Tofu Day

World Tofu Day is annually observed on July 26, in honor of tofu, a plant-based alternative to meat that is manufactured from soybeans. Tofu has seen a surge in popularity as more people switch to a plant-based diet. For vegans and vegetarians, it is particularly appreciated and enjoyed because they can avoid eating meat, but still get some much-needed protein from it. Even if you are not a vegetarian, but you’re curious about tofu, today is a good day to give it a try.

History of World Tofu Day

The Eastern Asian diet, which relies heavily on tofu, is a staple in many countries around the world. As important as dairy products like milk and cheese are to regular eaters, tofu is an indispensable part of every vegetarian diet. It may be newer in the West, but tofu dates back to 900 A.D. in Japan, where it is most popular.

Tofu, or bean curd in English, has several different names in the Chinese and Japanese languages. The term ‘tofu’ wasn’t coined until the 1800s when English translations of cookbooks began to appear. In the 1970s, as the meat replacement gained widespread acceptance in the West, cookbooks began to use ‘tofu’ as an official designation. People who prefer to adopt a vegetarian or vegan diet have grown to rely on tofu. It has become a classic meal and a nutritious alternative for them.

Each Japanese province has its distinct method of producing tofu, reflected in the wide range of ways it is consumed. When soybean production is executed well, it is enjoyed by a large number of people. Tofu is one of the most versatile and nutritious foods available worldwide. National Tofu Day seeks to highlight the numerous ways tofu has influenced people around the world while giving them the required nutrients.

World Tofu Day timeline

179 B.C. China Creates Tofu

During the Han Dynasty, China creates tofu as an affordable alternative for people who cannot afford meat.

8th Century A.D. The Tofu Production Technique Improves

During the Nara period, the Japanese adopt tofu and find the right technique to make them firmer and tastier.

1803 Tofu Gains Popularity in Japan

Tofu gains popularity in Japan when it becomes more widely accessible to people besides the rich.

1975 The Book of Tofu

“The Book of Tofu” is published, introducing tofu to the Western world and promoting vegetarianism and veganism.

2014 First World Tofu Day

The Society for the Protection of Animals organizes World Tofu Day as a worldwide celebration.

World Tofu Day FAQs

What is the purpose of the tofu in recipes?

Silken tofu, which is made by pureeing firm tofu to a silky paste, is used in a variety of dishes to enhance the creaminess and texture. It can also be used in place of eggs. Regular tofu, often known as bean curd or Chinese-style tofu, is much more widely available.

What's the best kind of tofu to use in a recipe?

If you’re looking for all-purpose tofu that can be sliced and cubed, extra-firm tofu should be your go-to. It can be used for pan-frying, stir-frying, baking, grilling, and scrambling.

Which method of cooking tofu is the healthiest option?

Tofu can be cooked in a steamer, which is the simplest and healthiest method. Line the steamer basket with paper or a cabbage leaf to keep the tofu from breaking apart.

World Tofu Day Activities

Make tofu dishes at home

Think outside the box

Host a gathering

Go online and search for tofu recipes to try out at home. There are several of them, including tikka masala, bibimbap, and more.

Think of tofu in a new light by introducing it into your meals. Tofu's adaptability implies that it can be cooked in a wide range of meals and will improve and enhance the flavors.

Hosting a gathering is a great way for other people to try tofu dishes. They can learn about the countries where tofu originated from too. Take it a step further by hosting a cooking competition if it’s a small gathering. The person who makes the best dish wins.

5 Interesting Facts About Tofu

Five types of tofu

Tofu in a mile

A cure for cancer?

Tofu for dessert

Color change

There are five main types of tofu: silken, extra soft, medium, firm, and extra firm.

One mile is equal to 12,672 blocks of tofu laid end-to-end.

Isoflavones, which are found in tofu, are known to lower the risk of cancer.

Tofu takes on the taste of whatever it is being cooked in, making silken tofu perfect for custards, pie, and making your chocolate cake moist.

When frozen, tofu takes on a yellowish color, but it returns to its original color once it thaws.

Why We Love World Tofu Day

It’s a healthy option

It is a versatile meal

Low-cost protein source

To make tofu, soybeans are separated into lumps and then pressed together again to form blocks. A good source of protein, tofu is low in fat and carbs. It is made up of fewer saturated fats, a good source of iron, magnesium, manganese, selenium, and calcium, as well as vitamins and minerals.

Many people believe tofu is tasteless which makes them unwilling to try it. When cooked properly and flavored with the right ingredients, tofu is very delicious. It acts like a sponge, soaking up the flavors of whatever it is cooked in. Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salty to sweet. It can even be used to make cheese.

Tofu is surprisingly affordable and relatively easy to make from scratch. Most supermarkets, grocers, and Asian specialty shops carry tofu. It's a great ingredient for large-scale meals for a large number of people.