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Tofu Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tofu

[ˈtoʊfuː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food product

Tofu is a soft, cheese-like food made from soybeans, commonly used in Asian cuisine. It is known for its versatility and ability to absorb flavors, making it a popular ingredient in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, soups, and salads.

Synonyms

bean curd, soybean curd.

Examples of usage

  • I added tofu to my vegetable stir-fry for extra protein.
  • The soup recipe calls for diced tofu and mushrooms.
  • Tofu can be grilled or fried for a delicious meal.
  • You can marinate tofu to enhance its flavor.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • Tofu is a key ingredient in many Asian dishes, but has gained popularity worldwide for its adaptability in various cuisines.
  • It can be prepared in numerous ways, such as grilled, stir-fried, or blended into smoothies, making it suitable for both savory and sweet recipes.

Nutrition

  • Rich in protein, tofu is often used as a meat substitute, making it a popular choice for vegetarians and vegans.
  • It contains important nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and iron, contributing to a balanced diet.

Cultural Significance

  • In Japan, there are special festivals dedicated to the production of tofu, highlighting its importance in local cuisine.
  • Tofu has been a staple in Chinese culinary traditions for over 2,000 years, illustrating its long-standing cultural relevance.

Health and Wellness

  • Research suggests that consuming tofu may have health benefits, including heart health due to its low saturated fat content.
  • Some studies indicate that soy products like tofu can help reduce symptoms of menopause, providing comfort during this life stage.

Origin of 'tofu'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'tofu' comes from Chinese, where it is called 'doufu,' meaning 'bean curd.'
  • The characters for tofu in Chinese translate literally to 'fermented bean.' This reflects its production process.

The word 'tofu' originates from the Mandarin Chinese term 'dòufu' (豆腐), which translates to 'bean curd.' This traditional food has been consumed in China for over 2,000 years, with its origins believed to date back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD). Tofu is made by coagulating soy milk and pressing the resulting curds into soft white blocks, a process that likely evolved from earlier practices in tofu production. Tofu made its way to other parts of Asia and eventually to the West, where it gained popularity as a staple for vegetarian and vegan diets due to its high protein content and health benefits. The culinary versatility of tofu, combined with the growing demand for plant-based options, has made it a significant food item in many international cuisines.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,141, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.