Name: Chilled Silken Tofu Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1/4 cup (59 ml) tamari or regular soy sauce; 2 teaspoons sesame chili oil; 1 teaspoon light agave nectar; 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar; 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds; 1 teaspoon chili flakes; 1 green onion, thinly sliced; 1 Thai chili, minced; 14 ounces (397 g) block silken tofu; A few sprigs of cilantro for topping

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Get ready to fall instantly in love with Chilled Silken Tofu, a dish that’s as elegant and effortless as it is refreshing. This recipe celebrates velvety blocks of tofu dressed with a punchy, savory sauce, bright herbs, and a subtle kick of heat. It’s proof that minimal prep doesn’t mean minimal flavor—a cool, crave-worthy appetizer or light meal that comes together in just five minutes! Whether you’re after a show-stopping starter for dinner parties or a healthy, speedy snack, Chilled Silken Tofu will surprise you with just how much flavor fits into each delicate bite.

Chilled Silken Tofu Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: each ingredient earns its place, contributing bold flavor, glimmering color, and delectable contrast in texture. You probably have most of these on hand, and together they transform humble tofu into something utterly craveable!

14 ounce (397 g) block silken tofu: The star of the show—its luscious, creamy texture is the perfect base for bold toppings.
¼ cup (59 ml) tamari or regular soy sauce: Adds umami depth and savory richness; use tamari for a gluten-free version.
2 teaspoons sesame chili oil: Delivers spicy, smoky notes that coat the tofu beautifully.
1 teaspoon light agave nectar: Balances the spices and brings a gentle sweetness to the sauce.
1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar: Brightens the dish with a pop of acidity that wakes up the palate.
2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds: Offer irresistible crunch and a nutty aroma.
1 teaspoon chili flakes: For extra heat and a splash of rosy color on top.
1 green onion, thinly sliced: Adds freshness, color, and a peppery bite.
1 Thai chili, minced: Packs a potent punch for chili lovers—adjust to your heat preference!
A few sprigs of cilantro for topping: Lends a pop of leafy green and fragrant finish.

How to Make Chilled Silken Tofu

Step 1: Prepare the Vibrant Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the tamari (or soy sauce), sesame chili oil, agave nectar, rice wine vinegar, toasted sesame seeds, chili flakes, green onion, and minced Thai chili. Whisk everything together until the agave dissolves and you’re left with a glossy, richly fragrant sauce that’s just begging to be poured over the tofu.

Step 2: Unmold and Plate the Silken Tofu

Carefully remove the silken tofu from its packaging—it’s delicate and can break easily, so use a light touch. Place it whole on a shallow bowl or deep plate. If you prefer, you can gently slice it into six or eight even pieces for easier serving, but leaving it as a single block makes for a stunning presentation.

Step 3: Dress with Sauce

Slowly pour your prepared sauce over the tofu, letting it flow down the sides and pool around the base. This generous soak ensures every morsel will be flavorful, with bits of onion, chili, and sesame clinging deliciously to the creamy tofu.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Top your chilled silken tofu with a flourish of fresh cilantro. You can also scatter a few extra chili flakes or sesame seeds for an eye-catching finish. Serve immediately and enjoy as the tofu is cool and the garnishes are vibrant.

How to Serve Chilled Silken Tofu

Garnishes

Garnishing is where you can truly put your stamp on Chilled Silken Tofu. Beyond fresh cilantro, try a sprinkle of crispy fried shallots, finely shredded shiso, or even crushed roasted peanuts for extra crunch. Edible flowers or radish microgreens also look gorgeous and bring subtle flavors that complement the dish’s Asian-inspired sauce.

Side Dishes

Chilled Silken Tofu pairs especially well with warm jasmine rice, steamed greens (think bok choy or gai lan), or a side of sautéed mushrooms. For a simple lunch, enjoy it alongside a crisp cucumber salad or tangy pickled vegetables—the contrast in texture and temperature is delightfully refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a striking appetizer, slice the tofu and arrange the pieces in overlapping layers on a long platter, spooning sauce over the top and scattering garnishes artfully. For individual servings, portion the silken tofu into small, shallow bowls and top each with sauce and garnishes—perfect for an elegant dinner or party tasting menu.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chilled Silken Tofu holds up well in the fridge for a day or two. Store it in an airtight container, ensuring the tofu stays submerged in sauce so it remains flavorful and moist. The tofu might release a bit of liquid, but the taste will be as vibrant as ever.

Freezing

It’s best not to freeze silken tofu for this dish. Freezing drastically changes the tofu’s supple texture, resulting in a spongy, porous bite rather than the smooth creaminess that makes Chilled Silken Tofu shine. Enjoy leftovers fresh from the fridge for the ultimate experience.

Reheating

This dish is meant to be enjoyed cold or at cool room temperature. If you prefer it slightly less chilled, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving—but skip the microwave, as heat breaks down the tofu’s delicate structure and spoils the refreshing sensation Chilled Silken Tofu is all about.

FAQs

Can I use firm tofu instead of silken for this recipe?

While you can substitute firm tofu in a pinch, the luxury of Chilled Silken Tofu is all about that custardy, melt-in-the-mouth texture. Firm tofu won’t yield the same luscious effect, but if you do use it, consider slicing it extra thin for a softer bite.

Is this recipe spicy?

With the addition of chili oil, chili flakes, and Thai chili, there is a gentle-to-moderate heat in this dish. If you’re sensitive to spice, simply omit the Thai chili or reduce the chili flakes—Chilled Silken Tofu will still be full of flavor.

How long can Chilled Silken Tofu sit out before serving?

It’s best served within 30 minutes of plating. Leaving it out for longer risks the tofu drying at the edges and the flavors dulling; keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve, especially on warm days.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The sauce can be made up to three days ahead and stored in a sealed container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before using, as some ingredients may settle or separate slightly.

What’s the best way to transport Chilled Silken Tofu if bringing it to a potluck?

For potlucks or picnics, transport the tofu and sauce separately in leak-proof containers. Pour the sauce over the tofu and garnish just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant—your friends will be seriously impressed.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried Chilled Silken Tofu before, I can’t recommend it enough—it’s a dazzlingly simple, deeply satisfying dish that belongs in your warm-weather rotation. Give it a go and let its silky texture, bright flavors, and effortless preparation win you over!

Sophia

Chilled Silken Tofu Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need