LETTERS TO EDITORS
Is it Possible to Cook Tofu in a Crock Pot?
I've been meaning to write to your organization to let you know how much I enjoy your publication. I've also purchased a copy of the Vegan and Vegetarian FAQ and think it is outstanding. I've referred to it on many occasions! I do have another cooking question...Is it possible to cook tofu in a crock pot to substitute for beef or chicken in those recipes calling for meat?
L.P.
Mentor, OH
Response from VRG's Food Service Advisor, Nancy Berkoff: I'm afraid that even extra firm tofu would fall apart with extended cooking. Here are some other suggestions:
- I know it's not very healthy, but you can deep-fry extra firm tofu cubes (just enough to form a tough crust). Then, you could add these about halfway through crock pot cooking, in stews, etc. Unfortunately, baking first won't form the right kind of crust.
- Instead of tofu, use soy crumbles, like the kind marketed to use instead of ground beef.
- Seitan, tempeh, and products such as Tofurky should hold up well in a crock pot.
