Cassey Ho explains how balanced, lifestyle choices are simple, interview

When some people hear the word tofu, the initial reaction might not have people salivating for that first bite. Although the recent season of Top Chef showcased the versatility of the ingredient, some home cooks are still learning how to manipulate it. During a recent conversation with Cassey Ho, the wellness influencer shared some insight on using the ingredient for a balanced lifestyle.

Many people know Cassey Ho from Blogilates, her successful wellness and social media platform. With approachable concepts, she has shown people that good choices are satisfying. Through some planning and balance, a healthy lifestyle is achievable.

With her multi-faceted approach, Ho appreciates that everyone is different. When asked, Ho said, “People are unique, so shouldn’t the solutions to our problems be unique as well? Of course. A balanced lifestyle will look different for everyone, and people need to understand that and respect that.”

Appreciating that there is no one size fits all approach, the reality is that finding choices and food that fits will vary. But, having the right tools in the tool box is key to personal success.

In a way, it is about being willing to try. Even though that first step might have a little hesitancy, that journey can be the start of something great.

Ho recommends, “Just try something new! Take notes as you go. The things that make you excited and happy – do more of it! The things that bore you and make you frown – do less of it. Give yourself the time to try and fail and try again. It’s ok, it’s not going to be perfect. What it is going to be is a journey.”

Even though that path might not be straight, the experience is part of the adventure. And, sometimes that willingness to try something new, different or unexpected can be a spark that makes the day seem even better.

Recently, Cassey Ho partnered with House Foods Tofu to showcase the ingredient’s versatility. While some home cooks might be uncertain on how to season, cook or otherwise use tofu, Ho believes that it is time to push aside some pre-conceived notions and discover what tofu has to offer.

When asked about why some home cooks are cautious about using tofu in recipes, Cassey Ho spoke candidly.

“People who didn’t grow up with tofu most likely have not been exposed to the many different ways you can cook with it! I grew up in a Chinese and Vietnamese household where tofu was prepared in almost everything we ate – from soups to noodle dishes to stir frys etc. I think one of the first places non-Asian people experience tofu is at a salad bar where it’s cold and unseasoned, so I can understand how many may think it’s bland. The great thing with tofu is that it’s versatile – you can blend it up in a smoothie to give your shake a creamy texture or you can cook it with veggies and meat and let it take on the flavour of your dish. Either way – it’s a good source of protein and just so delicious.“

As home cooks look to explore the many uses of the ingredient, Ho shared an idea that she enjoys. Ho recommends “One of my favorite tofu dishes is a Chinese dish called Mapo Tofu. There are packets you can get at your local Asian grocery store to easily make this. My mouth is watering just talking about it! For a twist on your average sandwich, I recently developed a tofu sandwich recipe for House Foods which I love. All you have to do is slice your tofu block into 4 thin and wide “sandwich breads” and then season each side with a little salt and pepper. Then throw it in your air fryer or fry it on your pan with a little olive oil til it’s golden on each side. It’s amazing just like that or you can add meat and veggies inside to create a sandwich!”

While these robust recipes showcase the depth of flavor that tofu can offer, it isn’t the only way to use the ingredient. For example, Ho shared that she used House Foods tofu to make a strawberry cheesecake smoothie. In her words, “it was AMAZING. The tofu made it soooo creamy without having to use any dairy, plus it gave it that extra boost of protein.”

Although this idea seems to lean into the idea that food substitutes, Ho strongly believes that “No food should be labeled “bad” because it instantly creates this unnecessary sense of guilt if and when you consume it. Look, food is energy. Food is medicine. Food is culture and experience! You should eat more of the things that make you feel good and help you reach your goals, and less of the things that make your body have negative reactions.”

If it is time to feed your body, mind and soul be thoughtful with daily choices. It doesn’t mean that the day is full of black and white decisions. The journey is a long one, but it is worth every step taken.