Cultivating Careers in Alternative Proteins Podcast

Ep. 26 - George Stiffman (Tofu Author and Evangelist)

Dec 5, 2023

George Stiffman, a tofu evangelist and author of the book Broken Cuisine, explores the perception and versatility of tofu in the US and Asian American community. He discusses the different types and varieties of tofu, their tastes, textures, and culinary applications. Stiffman provides advice for job seekers in the alternative protein industry and emphasizes the importance of long-term thinking and goal achievement.

27:14

Episode guests

George Stiffman

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Quick takeaways

Tofu comes in various forms beyond the widely known soft, firm, and extra firm, with at least 27 different types in China, each having its own unique characteristics and creative uses in Chinese cuisine.

George Stiffman's book Broken Cuisine aims to dispel misconceptions about tofu and raise awareness by providing foundational knowledge and inspiring others to explore the world of tofu in Western-style cuisines.

Deep dives

George Stiffman's mission to promote tofu in the Western diet

George Stiffman, also known as The Tofu Guy, is an advocate for promoting tofu within the Western diet. Through his travels in China, he learned about the various types of tofu and its culinary versatility. Wanting to dispel misconceptions and raise awareness, George wrote the book Broken Cuisine, which focuses on five rare types of tofu and how to incorporate them into Western-style cuisines. His goal is to help home cooks navigate these ingredients and encourage a greater adoption of tofu in the US.

Introduction

2min

Exploring the Perception and Versatility of Tofu

5min

The Diversity of Tofu

15min

Advice for Job Seekers in the Alternative Protein Space and Tofu Promotion

3min

Career Advice and Tofu Exploration

3min

George Stiffman, AKA the Tofu Guy, is a tofu evangelist and author of the book, Broken Cuisine. Through his travels in China, where he worked in Buddhist restaurant kitchens, apprenticed under a fifth generation tofu master, studied at a Chinese university, spoke at food industry conferences, and ate across numerous cities, towns, and villages, he was able to learn more about the various different types of tofu (yes, there are more varieties of tofu beyond silken, soft, firm, and extra firm). He also learned about the incredible ways that it can enhance the culinary experience. George’s goal is to encourage a greater adoption of tofu within the western diet, which he does through promoting his book on tofu and consulting with restaurants. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in East Asian Languages and Culture with a minor in Consumer Behavior from University of Southern California. George’s advice is to always keep your endgame in mind and try to find a niche for yourself in the industry.

George’s contact info:

Learn more about tofu and read the e-version of Broken Cuisine at brokencuisine.com.

This episode is sponsored by Tälist. Sign up here to join the Tälist network and find your dream job in the Alternative Protein industry.

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Cultivating Careers in Alternative Proteins Podcast

Ep. 26 - George Stiffman (Tofu Author and Evangelist)

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

George Stiffman's mission to promote tofu in the Western diet

The diversity of tofu beyond Western stereotypes

George Stiffman's journey and the process of writing Broken Cuisine

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts