When it comes to pressing tofu, the duration will depend on the desired texture and consistency you want to achieve in your dish. While a minimum of ten minutes is sufficient to remove some moisture from the tofu, pressing it for longer will yield firmer and drier results. I personally recommend pressing tofu for at least 30-60 minutes to achieve the best texture.
To press tofu, start by draining the liquid from the package and patting the tofu dry with paper towels. Then, place the tofu on a plate or cutting board and cover it with another layer of paper towels. Next, place a heavy object on top, such as a skillet or a few cans of food, to apply pressure and help release the excess moisture.
During the pressing process, the paper towels will absorb the moisture from the tofu, resulting in a firmer texture. The longer you press the tofu, the more moisture will be extracted, making it even firmer and drier. This can be particularly beneficial if you want to achieve a chewier texture or if you plan to marinate the tofu, as it will absorb flavors better when it's not overly moist.
I find that pressing tofu for 30-60 minutes works well for most recipes. However, if you're looking for an even firmer texture, you can press it for up to a few hours. Just make sure to check on it occasionally and replace the paper towels if they become too saturated.
I must admit, there have been times when I was in a hurry and skipped the pressing step. The result was tofu that didn't hold its shape well and had a more watery consistency. It didn't absorb the flavors of the dish as effectively either. So, I've learned from experience that taking the time to press tofu is worth it for better overall results in my cooking.
To summarize, allowing tofu to press for a minimum of ten minutes will remove some moisture, but pressing it for 30-60 minutes (or longer if desired) will yield firmer and drier tofu. The pressing process helps achieve a better texture, allows for better absorption of flavors, and enhances the overall quality of your dish. So, take the time to press your tofu and enjoy the delicious results in your recipes.