Crispy Baked Marinated Tofu
This recipe transforms humble tofu into a crispy, flavorful delight, perfect for adding plant-based protein to any meal. By pressing out excess water and baking in a savory marinade, you achieve a firm, chewy texture with a golden, irresistible crust.
For 4 servings
**Press the Tofu**: Remove tofu from packaging and drain. Wrap the block in several layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Place it on a plate and put a heavy object (like a cast iron pan or several cans) on top. Press for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to remove excess water. This step is crucial for crispy tofu.
**Prepare the Marinade**: While the tofu is pressing, whisk together the soy sauce (or tamari), toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper in a medium bowl.
**Cut and Marinate Tofu**: Once pressed, unwrap the tofu and cut it into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade bowl, then sprinkle with cornstarch. Gently toss to ensure all tofu pieces are evenly coated with both the marinade and cornstarch. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor, stirring occasionally.
**Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet**: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
**Arrange and Bake**: Arrange the marinated tofu cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Leave a little space between each piece for optimal crisping.
**First Bake**: Bake for 15 minutes.
**Flip and Continue Baking**: Carefully flip each tofu cube. Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown, firm, and crispy on the outside.
**Serve**: Remove from the oven. Serve immediately as a protein for bowls, salads, stir-fries, or wraps. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions, if desired.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Don't Skip Pressing**: Pressing is the most important step for achieving crispy tofu. The more water you remove, the crispier it will get.
- 2**Cornstarch is Key**: Adding cornstarch to the marinade creates a thin coating that helps the tofu get extra crispy and golden brown in the oven.
- 3**Single Layer Baking**: Ensure tofu pieces are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet without touching. Overcrowding will steam the tofu instead of crisping it.
- 4**Adjust Sweetness/Saltiness**: Taste your marinade before adding the tofu. Adjust maple syrup for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness to suit your preference.
Adapt it for your goals.
Flavor Variation
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick. A pinch of red pepper flakes also works well.
Flavor VariationFlavor Variation
Incorporate dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or a blend of Italian herbs into the marinade for a different flavor profile, especially if using in Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Cooking MethodCooking Method
For an even crispier result, air fry the marinated tofu at 190°C (375°F) for 12-18 minutes, shaking the basket every 5-7 minutes, until golden and crunchy.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Tofu is a complete protein source, providing all nine essential amino acids, making it an ideal choice for vegetarians and vegans to support muscle growth and repair.
Mineral-Rich
Depending on the coagulant used, tofu can be a significant source of iron, important for oxygen transport, and calcium, vital for bone health.
Heart-Healthy
Naturally low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free, tofu can be a heart-healthy addition to your diet, potentially reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Frequently asked questions
Pressing tofu removes excess water, which allows it to absorb the marinade more effectively and achieve a much firmer, chewier, and crispier texture when cooked. Without pressing, tofu can be watery and soft.
