Baked Tofu (Perfectly Crispy!)
User Reviews
5
Baked Tofu (Perfectly Crispy!)
Description
This recipe starts with extra-firm tofu pressed to remove excess moisture, then cut into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. The cubes are tossed with toasted sesame oil for flavor and coated with a seasoning blend of salt, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper for a mildly spicy note.
Arrowroot starch is added to help create a light, crisp coating during baking. Arranged without touching on a parchment-lined baking sheet, the tofu bakes at 400ºF for 20 minutes, flipped halfway through to develop a golden, crispy surface all around while the interior remains tender.
The finished tofu pieces can be served as a protein component in various dishes or as a snack. Adjust seasoning to taste, and consider pairing with dipping sauces or incorporating into salads or bowls.
The recipe notes suggest using a full teaspoon of salt for flavor but adjusting according to preference. Nutritional info is given per serving, which is half the total recipe yield.
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz.) block extra-firm tofu
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil toasted
- 1 teaspoon salt I use Real Salt brand; use less to reduce sodium, fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- cayenne pepper pinch
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400ºF and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Drain the tofu, then cut it in half lengthwise, making two thinner pieces.
- Set a towel down on the counter, then place the two tofu pieces on one side of the towel. Fold the other side over, sandwiching the tofu in the middle of the towel. Place something heavy on top of the towel, like a cast iron skillet, to help "press" the moisture out of the tofu. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Remove the tofu from the towel, cut it into 1-inch cubes, transfer the cubes to a bowl, and toss them with the sesame oil. In a separate small bowl, stir together the salt, garlic, and cayenne, then sprinkle it over the tofu. Stir well to season.
- Sprinkle the arrowroot starch over the tofu, and stir until the powder is no longer visible. Pour the tofu onto the prepared baking sheet, and arrange it so that none of the cubes are touching each other. Bake at 400ºF for 20 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the oven, flip the tofu pieces over, and bake for 15 more minutes, or until the tofu is golden on the outside. Serve it warm right away, with your favorite dipping sauce, or add it to your favorite meal for extra protein. Leftover tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Use a full teaspoon of salt for well-seasoned tofu, but reduce if preferred to control sodium.
- You can substitute or add other seasonings to customize the flavor profile.
- Nutrition info is approximate and based on one of two servings from this recipe.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 2Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 188 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 188kcal | 9% |
| Carbohydrates | 8g | 3% |
| Protein | 15g | 30% |
| Fat | 11g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Sodium | 1288mg | 54% |
| Potassium | 315mg | 7% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 64mg | 6% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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