Are you tired of bland, mushy tofu that disappoints at every turn? Get ready to revolutionize your plant-based cooking with this All-Purpose Baked Tofu recipe that transforms a humble block of tofu into a crispy, flavor-packed protein powerhouse! Whether you're a seasoned vegan, a curious foodie, or someone looking to add more exciting plant-based options to your diet, this recipe will become your new go-to method for creating irresistibly delicious tofu that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Global
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Remove the tofu from its packaging and press out excess moisture. To press, wrap the tofu block in clean kitchen towels or paper towels and place a heavy object like a cast-iron skillet on top for 15 minutes.
- Cut the pressed tofu into uniform 1/2-inch cubes, ensuring consistent size for even cooking and crispy texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and gently toss, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let the tofu marinate for 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Spread the marinated tofu cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other for maximum crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu cubes halfway through to ensure even browning and crispy edges.
- Remove from the oven when the tofu is golden brown and crispy on the outside. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot as a protein in salads, stir-fries, grain bowls, or as a standalone dish with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips
- Pressing is Crucial: Always press your tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This is the key to achieving that coveted crispy exterior.
- Uniform Cutting: Cut your tofu cubes into equal sizes to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Don't rush the marinating process. Let the tofu sit in the seasoning for at least 5-10 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors.
- Space Matters: When baking, make sure tofu cubes are spread out and not touching. This allows for maximum air circulation and helps create crispy edges.
- Flip Halfway: Turning the tofu cubes midway through cooking ensures even browning and prevents burning.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or marinades to suit your taste preferences.
- Storage Tip: These baked tofu cubes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, making them perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
