Calories in Tofu: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Tofu, also known as bean curd, is a versatile plant-based protein made by coagulating soy milk and pressing the resulting curds into solid blocks. Firm tofu is one of the most popular varieties, prized for its high protein content, significant calcium levels, and adaptability in cooking. Here is a complete breakdown of firm tofu nutrition by serving size.

Calories by serving size:

Tofu is also an excellent source of iron, manganese, selenium, and phosphorus. When prepared with calcium sulfate (the most common coagulant), tofu becomes one of the best plant-based sources of calcium, with a single cup providing over 50% of the daily value.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between firm, silken, and extra firm tofu?

Firm tofu has a dense, solid texture that holds its shape well during stir-frying, grilling, and baking, with about 76 calories per 100 grams. Silken tofu is much softer and creamier, with a higher water content and fewer calories (about 55 calories per 100 g), making it ideal for smoothies, soups, and desserts. Extra firm tofu has the least moisture and the most concentrated protein, with roughly 83 calories per 100 grams, and is best for high-heat cooking methods where a chewy texture is desired.

Is tofu healthy?

Tofu is considered a highly nutritious food by most nutrition experts. It is low in calories, rich in complete protein, and provides important minerals like calcium, iron, and manganese. Research has linked regular soy consumption to reduced risk of heart disease and improved cholesterol levels. Tofu is also naturally low in sodium and free of cholesterol, making it a heart-friendly protein source.

How does tofu compare to chicken in protein?

A 100-gram serving of firm tofu provides about 8.2 grams of protein and 76 calories, while the same amount of cooked chicken breast provides about 31 grams of protein and 165 calories. While chicken has significantly more protein per gram, tofu is much lower in calories and provides additional nutrients like calcium and isoflavones that chicken does not. For those on plant-based diets, tofu is one of the most efficient protein sources available.

Is tofu a complete protein?

Yes, tofu is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that the human body cannot produce on its own. Soy protein is one of the few plant-based proteins that meets this criteria, putting it on par with animal proteins in terms of amino acid quality. This makes tofu especially valuable for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking to diversify their protein sources.

How much calcium is in tofu?

Firm tofu made with calcium sulfate is one of the richest plant-based sources of calcium. A single cup of cubed firm tofu provides approximately 506 mg of calcium, which is about 39-50% of the recommended daily intake depending on age and sex. This makes calcium-set tofu comparable to dairy milk in calcium content, though absorption rates can vary slightly between the two sources.