Easy Tofu Feta – Brined with Vegan Lactic Acid

Ever wondered if there’s truly a tofu feta that tastes just like the tangy, crumbly goodness of the traditional stuff? Spoiler alert: there absolutely is, and you’re about to make it yourself! This vegan feta cheese recipe using extra firm tofu and a uniquely flavorful brine will change the way you think about dairy-free cheeses. After countless experiments in artisanal vegan cheesemaking, I’ve finally perfected this recipe. It delivers all the salty, savory deliciousness you’d expect—without a drop of dairy.

Whether you’re craving a Greek salad with feta cheese, assembling your favorite baked feta pasta, or whipping up a basil watermelon feta salad, this tofu-based alternative has got you covered. In fact, it might just become your new favorite vegan cheese recipe. Even non-vegan friends regularly ask me, “Is there vegan cheese that’s actually good?” One taste of this recipe, and the answer becomes obvious!

How to Make an Alternative for Feta Cheese with Tofu

This vegan replacement for feta cheese recipe stands out because it nails the core qualities of traditional feta: the briny sharpness, the delicate crumble, and that unmistakable savory punch. But unlike dairy-based versions, this vegan feta is lighter, protein-packed, and cholesterol-free. Plus, it works beautifully in all your favorite feta-forward dishes—no compromise required.

First, we’re starting with a block of extra firm or super firm tofu to create our feta substitute. After we cube it up so the brine can penetrate throughout, we need to give it a brief cooking to improve the texture. After boiling, the tofu gets immersed in a carefully balanced marinade. A standout ingredient here is vegan lactic acid—a true game-changer in vegan cheesemaking. It imparts a nuanced, dairy-like tanginess without overwhelming the palate.

Ingredient Spotlight: Vegan Lactic Acid

When it comes to vegan cheesemaking, vegan lactic acid is a bit of sunshine in a bag. Unlike sharper acids such as lemon juice or vinegar, vegan lactic acid provides a mellow, complex tang reminiscent of cultured dairy cheeses. This makes it ideal for creating an authentic vegan replacement for feta cheese, giving you the full sensory experience—rich taste, appealing aroma, and satisfying texture.

Last update on 2025-07-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Incorporating vegan lactic acid into this tofu feta not only brings it closer to the taste profile of real feta but also adds depth and sophistication to your vegan cheese creations. Combined in a marinade with good quality EVOO and fresh chopped herbs, it paves the way for homemade cheeses that genuinely feel artisanal.

Other related recipes you might enjoy:

• The Best Vegan Ricotta with Tofu – Artisanal Vegan Cheese
• Copycat Siete Dairy Free Queso Cheese Seasoning
• Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe with Sodium Citrate
• The Best Vegan Philly Cheesesteak (Easy Tofu Recipe)
• The Best Vegan Gyros: Easy Tofu Recipe with Creamy Tzatziki

Ingredients for the Tofu Feta Recipe

You might notice from some of these pictures that the tofu looks like the regular firm tofu in the brine instead of the extra firm tofu in the vacuum packs that would give this the best texture. I tried making it this way when it was all I had, and I was already late for publishing this post on my schedule. I’m not the biggest fan, but it should work out fine in the Whipped Tofu Feta Dip that I have coming next week.

• Extra Firm Tofu: The ideal base providing the perfect feta-like texture.
• Water: Used to boil tofu, helping develop the crumbly texture.
• Salt: Essential for achieving authentic feta saltiness.
• Vegan Lactic Acid: The secret to a genuinely cheesy tang, creating an authentic taste.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (optional): Enhances richness and marinated feta flavor.
• Herbs (optional): Oregano, thyme, or dill for a classic Greek-style touch.

Instructions for Making the Tofu Feta

1. Cut the tofu into approximately half inch cubes and measure out the ingredients for the brine.

2. Boil the tofu cubes for ten minutes in salty water to help with the texture. (I could only get a firm tofu for this photo set, but I much prefer an extra firm tofu instead for the recipe)

3. Make the brine, cover the drained tofu cubes with the new brine in a sealed container, and allow to marinate at least overnight.

4. Remove the tofu feta cubes from the brine and drain or pat dry any undesired liquid prior to use.

Serving Ideas

This vegan feta cheese is wildly versatile. Toss it into pasta, stir it into grain bowls, or crumble it over vegetables. It holds its own in just about any dish where dairy feta would usually shine.

• Baked Feta Pasta: Mix with cherry tomatoes and olive oil, then bake and stir into pasta for a plant-based twist on the viral sensation.
• Baked Feta Dip: Blend your tofu feta with a little plant yogurt and herbs, then bake until warm and serve with pita chips.
• Beet and Feta Salad or Arugula Feta Salad: Crumble this on your favorite greens for a burst of flavor.
• Basil Watermelon Feta Salad: Sweet meets salty in the best summer side ever.
• Apple Feta Salad: Bright, fresh, and satisfying—this combo never gets old.
• Baking with Feta Cheese: Yes, this vegan version works for bakes too—try it in savory pies or flatbreads!

Want more ideas? Here’s a roundup of amazing vegan recipes for using tofu feta that’ll keep you inspired in the kitchen. (I would have thought that someone would have already written one of these, but it seems that it doesn’t exist and I’ll have to make one ASAP)

Storage Tips

Store your tofu feta in its brine in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to one week and actually improves in flavor after a few days as more of the ingredients in the brine continue to penetrate and soak into the tofu.

FAQs

This vegan feta cheese recipe is a staple in my kitchen, and once you try it, it’ll be in yours too. It’s the perfect alternative for feta cheese whether you’re dairy-free, plant-curious, or just looking for something delicious and new. Add it to your meal prep routine, impress your friends at the next potluck, or transform your favorite comfort dishes with this tangy, craveable cheese.

Last update on 2025-07-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

And the best part? No cows required. Just smart science, clean ingredients, and a little bit of tofu magic. Make sure to grab some vegan lactic acid to give your tofu feta the most realistic tangy flavor. Keep it on hand to elevate your vegan cheesemaking and give flavor to other dairy-free seasonings and dips too!