Easy Marinated Tofu

1. Cut the tofu into approximately ½" cubes. Arrange them on a cutting board or other clean, flat surface. Lay a paper towel over the tofu and place a large baking sheet on top. Top the baking sheet with a heavy object—I often use a pot filled with some water to make it heavier. Leave for 15–20 minutes to squeeze out the extra moisture.
2. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper. Whisk to combine.
3. In a large bowl, combine the tofu and marinade. Toss to evenly coat the tofu. Cover and place in the refrigerator. Allow tofu to marinate for at least one hour.
4. Remove the tofu from the marinade with a slotted spoon, but do not discard the marinade liquid yet. Toss the marinated tofu with the sesame seeds. Proceed with baking or pan frying the tofu, according to instructions below.

To bake:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and flip the tofu cubes, brushing lightly with additional marinade. Return to oven for additional 10–15 minutes.

To pan fry:

1. Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and spray lighly with cooking spray. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 3–5 minutes on each side, until golden brown, brushing lightly with additional marinade as you cook for extra flavor.
2. Sprinkle tofu with sesame seeds and serve.