Crispy Baked Tofu is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy tofu, with a golden, crunchy exterior and a tender inside. This method is perfect for adding tofu to salads, stir-fries, grain bowls, or enjoying on its own as a snack. Baking the tofu in the oven makes it easy, hands-off, and less oily than frying.
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot starch for a gluten-free alternative)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
- Press the tofu:
- Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. To do this, wrap the tofu block in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object (like a skillet or a few books) on top for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, use a tofu press if you have one.
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Cut the tofu:
- After pressing, cut the tofu into cubes (about 1-inch pieces) or thin slices, depending on your preference.
- Season the tofu:
- In a large bowl, gently toss the tofu cubes with olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cornstarch. Make sure the tofu is evenly coated, as the cornstarch helps create a crispy texture.
- Bake the tofu:
- Spread the tofu cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve:
- Remove the tofu from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve immediately, adding it to salads, stir-fries, grain bowls, or enjoy as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy your crispy baked tofu—crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor!
