Healthy Eating
Baked Tofu
Description
When you know how to make Baked Tofu the right way, this bland, mushy block transforms into chewy, bite-sized nuggets that are absolutely packed with flavor. Let’s dig in!
Ingredients
- For the Tofu and Baking:°
- 1 (12-to 14-ounce) block extra firm tofu (do not use firm, soft, or silken)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot starch
- For the Tofu Marinade:°
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon Sriracha or hot sauce of choice
- Optional, for Serving:
- Stir-fried or steamed veggies of choice
- Prepared brown rice or white rice
Directions
- Remove the tofu from the package and drain. With your hands, gently squeeze out as much water as possible without breaking or crushing the block. Wrap the tofu in paper towel and gently squeeze it once more. If time allows, wrap the tofu in fresh paper towels and press it for 15 minutes, either with a tofu press or by placing it between two plates and setting some heavy cans on top*.
- Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a baking dish that holds them snugly in an even layer (I find an 8×8-inch baking dish works well).
- In a mixing bowl or measuring cup with a spout, whisk together the marinade: soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, olive oil, sesame oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ginger, and Sriracha. Drizzle over the tofu. If any pieces look bare, turn them over in the marinade a few times so all of the sides are coated. Marinate the tofu for 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 1 day.
- When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 425℉ and line a sheet pan with parchment paper. With a slotted spoon or your fingers, transfer the tofu to the center of the baking sheet (reserve the marinade for serving). Sprinkle the cornstarch over the top of the tofu, then toss gently to coat (don't worry if the cubes crumble a little bit; those crumbly bits will get crispy and be extra delicious). Spread the tofu into an even layer so the cubes are not touching.
- Bake the tofu for 20 to 30 minutes, until it’s darkened at the edges and the edges are a little crisp. Rotate the pan 180 degrees halfway through to promote even cooking. Remove tofu from the oven and drizzle with the reserved marinade. Enjoy immediately with rice and stir-fried veggies, add it to a salad or wrap, or munch it right off of the pan.
