Is it possible to cook tofu in a crock pot?

Vegetarian Journal, March-April, 2003

I've been meaning to write to your organization to let you know how much I enjoy your publication. I've also purchased a copy of the Vegan and Vegetarian FAQ and think it is outstanding. I've referred to it on many occasions! I do have another cooking question ... Is it possible to cook tofu in a crock pot to substitute for beef or chicken in those recipes calling for meat?

L.P.
Mentor, OH

Response from VRG's Food Service Advisor, Nancy Berkoff: I'm afraid that even extra firm tofu would fall apart with extended cooking. Here are some other suggestions:

1) I know it's not very healthy, but you can deep-fry extra firm tofu cubes (just enough to form a tough crust). Then, you could add these about halfway through crock pot cooking, in stews, etc. Unfortunately, baking first won't form the right kind of crust.

2) Instead of tofu, use soy crumbles, like the kind marketed to use instead of ground beef.

3) Seitan, tempeh, and products such as Tofurky should hold up well in a crock pot.