What exactly is bean curd?

Question

I have found I love to get sweet and sour bean curd at Chinese places, but I have no idea what it is.

So, what is it and where can I purchase it. I know in my Fred Meyers, it isn't by the tofu...so...?

Answer 1

Bean curd is another name for Tofy. Tofu (the Japanese "Romaji" spelling), also called doufu (the Chinese "Pinyin" spelling often used in Chinese recipes) or bean curd (the literal translation), is a food of Chinese origin[1], made by coagulating soy milk, and then pressing the resulting curds into blocks. The making of tofu from soy milk is similar to the technique of making cheese from milk. Wheat gluten, or seitan, in its steamed and fried forms, is often mistakenly called "tofu" in Asian or vegetarian dishes.
You can find it at any Chinese grocery store

* Please pick this as best answer for all the hard work

Answer 2

I make my own tofu and know the exact answer.
You have heard of "curds and whey." they come from cow's milk and are the first step to making cheese. Bean curd is the coagulated "curds" of soy milk which are separated from the "whey" and used to make tofu. After making fresh soy milk you add some mineral salts to the "milk" and it separates into "curds and whey." Scoop the curds out of the mixtures and press into a brick shape.
Firmness and texture vary according to how much moisture you press from the curds. Extra firm tofu is good for meals, softer tofu is better for smoothies and deserts. Silken tofu is best for deserts.
If you freeze tofu it takes on a more meaty texture, and is great in chili or even some soups.

Millions of people around the world love tofu. Here in America you will find that it is misunderstood and many will stick their noses up at it without ever trying it.

Enjoy your bean curd.

Answer 3

Bean curd is called poor man's meat because it is so economical and high in protein (it contains no fat or carbohydrates). It is, on the other hand, a rich man's delight, due to its smooth texture and its ability to give body to any flavor. It is an old man's favorite, for it melts in the mouth. It is a woman's choice because it is good for the skin. Babies also love it. Thus bean curd may be the most democratic of foods, giving pleasure to everyone.

Bean curd is tofu! :)

Answer 4

I was always under the impression bean curd and tofu are the same thing.

Answer 5

bean curd IS tofu, and is usually made from soy. It is the mashed beans that have had the milk extracted, then had a coagulant (usually magnesium sulfate) added to bind it. It is often made from genetically altered soy, which is highly toxic and has the potential to induce allergies. Try to buy NON GMO

Answer 6

i believe bean curd is some sort of tofu.

Answer 7

Bean curd is tofu.

Answer 8

It is by the tofu in the grocery store.... because it is tofu!

Glad you enjoy it... Tofu can be a great addition to many meals.

Scan through the discover section of Y!Answers and you will discover a plethora of recipes and links to sites that will cover all your vegetarian or vegan culinary bases!

Answer 9

It's Tofu.