tofu

noun

to·​fu ˈtō-(ˌ)fü 

: a soft food product prepared by treating soybean milk with coagulants (such as magnesium chloride or diluted acids) : bean curd

… tofu is our most versatile form of nonanimal concentrated protein, as well as the least processed and the most traditional.

—Mark Bittman

The tofu … was sliced uniformly and stacked neatly in the bowl of clear, seafood-flavored broth.

—Karen Hayes

Vegetarian cooking has never been so simple. Supermarkets carry packaged convenience foods like tofu hot dogs …

—Norine Dworkin

Examples of tofu in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Soft tofu will disintegrate in the pan, so steer clear of that. —Robin Miller, AZCentral.com, 24 Dec. 2025

Studies suggest a regular intake of tofu can lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. —Jamie Johnson, Verywell Health, 23 Dec. 2025

In general, the bowls were substantial enough for lunch, though the dishes topped with tofu were a little less filling than the ones with chicken. —Lizzy Briskin, Bon Appetit Magazine, 22 Dec. 2025

Like eggs, tofu is high in protein and works well with savory ingredients like vegetables and cheese. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 22 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Japanese tōfu

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

tofu

noun

to·​fu ˈtō-fü 

: a soft food product prepared by coagulating soybean milk

called also bean curd