Easy Baked Tofu
Ingredients
- 1 15-ounce block extra firm tofu*
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1/2 teaspoon Sriracha
or other hot sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
or arrowroot starch
Directions
- 1
Preheat an oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 2
Cut the tofu into 3/4-inch cubes (slice the tofu in half into two large rectangles, then into 6 long slices and across 5 times, for 60 pieces total; the exact size may vary based on brand). Place the cubes on a clean dish towel, then gently pat them with a second towel to remove excess moisture.
- 3
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, liquid smoke, Sriracha and salt. Add the tofu cubes and gently toss with a spatula until coated.
- 4
Place 2 tablespoons cornstarch on a plate and add 1 handful tofu cubes, tossing until coated. Place the cubes onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Continue with additional handfuls of tofu cubes until all are coated, adding the additional cornstarch as you go. This doesn’t have to be perfect: just make sure the pieces are mostly lightly coated.
- 5
Bake 30 to 35 minutes without stirring, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy on the outside. Allow to cool 3 to 5 minutes before eating. (Make it ahead or store leftovers for up to 3 days refrigerated. The texture becomes softer in the fridge and it becomes less salty over time. To crisp it up before serving, place it on a baking sheet, sprinkle with a few pinches of salt, and bake a 350 degree oven for 5 minutes until warmed through and crispy on the outside.)
Easy Baked Tofu
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Based on 23 ratings
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About this Recipe
Craving irresistibly crispy tofu that's packed with flavor, perfect for any meal? This Easy Baked Tofu recipe delivers on all fronts, transforming a simple block of tofu into a versatile, savory delight that will become a staple in your kitchen.
This recipe shines because it focuses on building layers of flavor and achieving that coveted crisp exterior. The secret lies in a careful combination of savory soy sauce, a hint of smoky liquid smoke, and a touch of Sriracha for warmth, all working in harmony to penetrate the tofu. What truly sets this baked tofu apart is the addition of cornstarch (or arrowroot starch), which creates a delicate, crunchy crust when baked, elevating it far beyond bland, soft tofu.
When you bite into this Easy Baked Tofu, you'll experience a delightful contrast: a wonderfully crispy exterior giving way to a firm yet tender interior. Each piece is infused with a rich, savory, and subtly smoky flavor, brightened by a whisper of garlic and a pleasant kick from the Sriracha. It’s deeply satisfying and surprisingly substantial, making it an excellent plant-based protein for a variety of dishes. You'll find it incredibly simple to prepare, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation.
Want to make it your own? Feel free to adjust the amount of Sriracha to control the spice level—omit it entirely for a milder version, or add more for extra heat. If you don't have cornstarch, arrowroot starch works equally well to achieve that desired crispiness. This baked tofu is a fantastic canvas, easily adapted to fit your preferences.
Serve this versatile baked tofu as a standout protein in your favorite stir-fries, layered into vibrant bowl meals, or simply as a savory side. Its satisfying texture and robust flavor make it a delicious and healthy component for countless dishes.