Crispy Baked Tofu Recipe

Tofu: Extra-firm tofu is essential for this recipe as it holds its shape and texture better during baking.

Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor to the tofu.

Olive oil: Helps to crisp up the tofu and adds a rich flavor.

Cornstarch: Creates a crispy coating on the tofu when baked.

Garlic powder: Infuses the tofu with a subtle garlic flavor.

Paprika: Adds a mild, smoky flavor and a touch of color to the tofu.

When preparing tofu, ensure it is thoroughly pressed to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. Use a tofu press or wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for at least 15-20 minutes. This will help the tofu absorb the marinade better and crisp up nicely in the oven.

• extra-firm tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh has a firm texture and can be cubed and baked similarly to tofu, providing a nutty flavor.

• extra-firm tofu - Substitute with seitan: Seitan has a chewy texture and can be baked to achieve a crispy exterior, making it a good alternative to tofu.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a similar umami flavor.

• soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos is a soy-free and gluten-free option that provides a slightly sweeter flavor.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it suitable for baking.

• olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is another neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, ideal for baking.

• cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a gluten-free thickening agent that can provide a similar crispy texture.

• cornstarch - Substitute with potato starch: Potato starch can also be used to achieve a crispy coating on baked tofu.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a different but complementary flavor to garlic powder.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers a more intense garlic flavor, though it may not distribute as evenly.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth of flavor while still providing the color and mild heat of regular paprika.

• paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can add a bit more heat and complexity, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

• Allow the tofu to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain its crispy texture.
• Transfer the cooled tofu to an airtight container. For best results, use a container that fits the amount of tofu snugly to minimize air exposure.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The tofu will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the tofu on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• For freezing, place the cooled tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring the pieces are not touching each other.
• Freeze the tofu for 1-2 hours until solid. This prevents the pieces from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the tofu to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the tofu on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is heated through and crispy again.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Add the tofu cubes and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and regain their crispiness.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the tofu cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tofu is hot and crispy.

• Microwave Method: Place the tofu on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Note that this method may not retain the crispiness as well as the others.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tofu on a toaster oven tray lined with parchment paper. Toast for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is heated through and crispy.

• Oven: Used to bake the tofu at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C) to achieve a crispy texture.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for spreading the tofu cubes evenly, ensuring they cook uniformly.

• Parchment paper: Prevents the tofu from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the soy sauce, olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, and paprika, and to coat the tofu cubes evenly.

• Spatula: Helps in gently tossing the tofu cubes in the mixing bowl to ensure they are well-coated with the seasoning mixture.

• Knife: Essential for cutting the block of tofu into evenly sized cubes.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting the tofu into cubes.

• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of the soy sauce, olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, and paprika for consistent flavor.

• Tongs: Useful for flipping the tofu cubes halfway through the baking process to ensure they become golden and crispy on all sides.

Press tofu ahead: Press the tofu in advance to remove excess moisture, saving time during preparation.

Pre-mix marinade: Combine soy sauce, olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, and paprika ahead of time and store in the fridge.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Cut tofu uniformly: Cut the tofu into even cubes to ensure they cook evenly and at the same rate.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and store extra crispy tofu for quick meals throughout the week.