Mori-Nu Tofu – a different kind of tofu

MjpegTOFU_Organic1Mori-Nu Tofu has been a favorite product at Vegfest for many years.  We caught up with the marketing manager to learn more about the product.

How is Mori-Nu Tofu different from other kinds of tofu?

The main difference between Mori-Nu ™Silken Tofu and other types of tofu is the style/type, texture, and the fact that it is shelf stable. Mori-Nu’s Tofu is velvety smooth, creamy, custard-like, and consistent in composition. The other types of tofu are often referred to as Momen Tofu or regular tofu.  They are more porous, firm, and rough in texture.

Mori-Nu Tofu is shelf stable (1 year from production) and packaged in a Tetra Pak box. The box is hermetically sealed, and the tofu is formed inside. This allows continuous protection from light, air, bacteria, and micro-organisms that cause spoilage.  There are no preservatives in Mori-Nu tofu.  It is Non-GMO Verified, certified Gluten-Free (by GFCO/GIG), KSA Kosher Parve certified, and is available in six varieties.

Is Silken tofu popular in Japan?

Silken tofu is most popular in Japan, but it is also popular in other countries especially in the US, India, Asia Pac and Canada. Tofu is popular in Asian style cooking.

While Mori-Nu™ is not sold in Japan, our parent company, Morinaga Milk Industry, Co., Ltd., sells tofu in limited quantities in Japan.  Although quite popular, Morinaga tofu sales are regulated to ensure that smaller tofu shops continue to remain in business in our home country of Japan.

Can it be used in other cuisines?

Mori-Nu Silken Tofu can be used in other types of foods and cuisines as the main component or as a substitute ingredient.  Several cuisines use tofu as part of the main dish or as an ingredient:

  • Mexican (tacos, chilaquiles, and flan)
  • Italian (meat-less meatballs, Carbonaro sauce, pizza, and cheesecake)
  • Mediterranean (hummus and tzatziki sauce)
  • Indian (curry, chutney, and paneer)
  • American (pancakes/waffles, smoothies, and ice cream)
  • Chinese (stir fry with veggies, egg rolls, and soup)

Can you use it to make a smoothie?

Mori-Nu Silken Tofu is versatile and can be used in several applications.  It blends well for a smoothie.  It can be used in sauces, dips, desserts, and so much more.  It is a substitute for meat protein and can be an alternative ingredient instead of using butter, cream, milk, sour cream, cheese, and other dairy foods.

Can you freeze it?

Mori-Nu Silken Tofu does not have to be refrigerated as it is shelf stable until it’s opened.  Freezing tofu changes its texture when thawed, giving it a “meat-like” texture suitable for a variety of hearty recipes.  To enjoy the best quality tofu, use immediately after opening for the best flavor, taste, and texture.  If not open, the shelf life is 1-year from the production date.

How long has Morinaga Nutritional Foods, Inc. been making it?

Morinaga Nutritional Foods, Inc. was established in 1985. We started making shelf stable tofu in 1997 in the U.S.  It has been 20 years and we continue to share our passion in providing the freshest tofu made from the highest quality soybeans.

Here’s a tasty recipe to enjoy:

Tofu Rice Stir Fry Recipe

Ingredients:

1/3 cup light soy sauce

1/3 cup rice vinegar

3 Tbsp. sesame oil

1 package Mori-Nu Silken Extra Firm Tofu, drained and cut into 1/2 inch cubes

1/2 cup carrots, chopped

1/2 cup celery, sliced

1/2 cup scallions, sliced

1/4 cup fresh ginger, sliced

1 cup cooked rice

Preparation:

Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil and tofu cubes.  Marinate in refrigerator for a minimum of an hour. Heat all the marinade ingredients in a wok. Add carrots, celery, scallions and ginger. Stir fry until all vegetables are just crisp-tender. Add cooked rice. Stir fry to heat through. Serve hot.