Crispy Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce

It’s funny how some of the simplest recipes can become absolute staples in your kitchen. This Crispy Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce recipe is one of those gems for me. Initially, I was a bit skeptical about tofu – I’d tried it before with mixed results, often finding it bland or rubbery. But a friend swore by baked tofu, claiming it was a game-changer. Intrigued, I decided to give it a go, and stumbled upon this particular recipe. Let me tell you, it was a revelation! The first bite was pure crispy, savory heaven. The tofu, perfectly golden and crunchy on the outside, had a satisfyingly firm yet tender interior. And the peanut sauce? Oh, the peanut sauce! It’s creamy, nutty, slightly sweet, and with just the right hint of tanginess. My family, even the tofu skeptics, devoured it. It’s now a regular feature on our dinner table, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you, so you can experience the crispy tofu magic for yourself. Prepare to be amazed at how delicious and easy plant-based protein can be!

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor

This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor, and it starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create crispy baked tofu perfection and that irresistible peanut sauce:

For the Crispy Baked Tofu:

• Extra-firm Tofu: (1 block, about 14-16 ounces) – The star of the show! Extra-firm tofu is crucial for achieving that crispy texture. It has less water content than other types, making it ideal for baking and crisping up.
• Soy Sauce (or Tamari for Gluten-Free): (3 tablespoons) – Adds umami and saltiness, acting as a flavor base for the tofu marinade and contributing to browning during baking. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative with a similar savory profile.
• Sesame Oil: (1 tablespoon) – Provides a nutty and aromatic depth to the marinade, enhancing the overall flavor of the tofu.
• Maple Syrup (or Agave): (1 tablespoon) – A touch of sweetness balances the savory flavors and helps with caramelization during baking, contributing to the crispy exterior. Agave nectar is a good vegan alternative.
• Rice Vinegar: (1 tablespoon) – Adds a subtle tanginess that brightens the marinade and cuts through the richness of the peanut sauce.
• Garlic Powder: (1 teaspoon) – Infuses the tofu with a gentle garlic flavor, adding a savory dimension without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Cornstarch (or Arrowroot Powder for Gluten-Free): (2 tablespoons) – The secret weapon for crispy tofu! Cornstarch creates a light coating that absorbs moisture and promotes browning and crispiness in the oven. Arrowroot powder is a gluten-free substitute with similar thickening and crisping properties.

For the Creamy Peanut Sauce:

• Creamy Peanut Butter: (½ cup) – The heart of the sauce! Use your favorite creamy peanut butter – natural or conventional works well. Ensure it’s smooth for a creamy sauce.
• Soy Sauce (or Tamari for Gluten-Free): (3 tablespoons) – Just like in the tofu marinade, soy sauce provides the savory umami backbone of the peanut sauce. Tamari remains the gluten-free option.
• Rice Vinegar: (2 tablespoons) – Adds that essential tanginess to balance the richness of the peanut butter and soy sauce, creating a complex and flavorful sauce.
• Maple Syrup (or Agave): (2 tablespoons) – Sweetens the sauce, complementing the savory and nutty notes, and bringing all the flavors together. Agave is a suitable vegan alternative.
• Sesame Oil: (1 tablespoon) – Enhances the nutty aroma and flavor of the peanut sauce, adding depth and complexity.
• Lime Juice: (1 tablespoon) – Provides a bright, citrusy zing that elevates the sauce and cuts through the richness, adding freshness.
• Ginger (freshly grated or ground): (1 teaspoon freshly grated or ½ teaspoon ground) – Adds a warm, spicy, and aromatic layer to the sauce, creating complexity and depth. Freshly grated ginger offers a more vibrant flavor, but ground ginger is a convenient alternative.
• Garlic (minced): (1 clove, minced) – Adds a pungent and savory element to the sauce, complementing the ginger and other flavors. Freshly minced garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
• Water: (2-4 tablespoons) – Used to thin the sauce to your desired consistency. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more gradually until you reach your preferred texture.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): (¼ – ½ teaspoon or to taste) – For a touch of heat! Red pepper flakes add a subtle spicy kick to the peanut sauce, balancing the sweetness and richness. Adjust the amount to your spice preference or omit if you prefer a milder sauce.

Instructions: Step-by-Step to Crispy Perfection

Creating this Crispy Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce is surprisingly easy! Just follow these simple steps and you’ll be enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.

Step 1: Press the Tofu (Essential for Crispiness!)

• Remove the Tofu from Packaging: Carefully take the block of extra-firm tofu out of its packaging and drain off any excess water.
• Press the Tofu: This is the most crucial step for achieving crispy tofu. There are several ways to press tofu, but here’s a simple and effective method:
  • Towel Method: Wrap the tofu block in several layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
  • Weight it Down: Place a heavy object on top of the wrapped tofu. Good options include a heavy skillet, cookbooks, or even a plate weighted down with cans.
  • Press for at least 30 minutes: Let the tofu press for at least 30 minutes, or even longer for best results (up to an hour is ideal). The longer you press, the more water you remove, leading to crispier tofu. You’ll notice water being expelled from the tofu as it presses – this is exactly what we want!
• Alternative Pressing Methods: If you’re a frequent tofu eater, you might consider investing in a tofu press. These devices are specifically designed to efficiently press tofu and can save you time and effort.

Step 2: Prepare the Tofu Marinade

• Cut the Tofu: Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into your desired shape. Cubes or triangles are popular choices for crispy baked tofu. Aim for roughly uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
• Whisk Marinade Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce (or tamari), sesame oil, maple syrup (or agave), rice vinegar, and garlic powder until well combined.
• Marinate the Tofu: Add the cut tofu pieces to the marinade bowl. Gently toss to ensure all sides of the tofu are coated in the marinade.
• Marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer): Let the tofu marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. For even deeper flavor, you can marinate it in the refrigerator for up to a few hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the tofu will become.

Step 3: Coat the Tofu in Cornstarch

• Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Coat with Cornstarch: Place the cornstarch (or arrowroot powder) in a separate shallow bowl or plate.
• Dredge Tofu in Cornstarch: Take each marinated tofu piece and dredge it in the cornstarch, ensuring all sides are evenly coated. Gently shake off any excess cornstarch. This coating is key to achieving that signature crispy texture.
• Arrange on Baking Sheet: Arrange the cornstarch-coated tofu pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as this can prevent them from crisping properly.

Step 4: Bake the Tofu to Crispy Perfection

• Bake in Preheated Oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.
• Flip and Bake Again: After 20-25 minutes, carefully flip each tofu piece using a spatula. Bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown and crispy on all sides. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your tofu pieces. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
• Check for Crispiness: The tofu is ready when it’s golden brown and feels firm and crispy to the touch.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Peanut Sauce While Tofu Bakes

• Combine Sauce Ingredients: While the tofu is baking, prepare the peanut sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar, maple syrup (or agave), sesame oil, lime juice, grated ginger (or ground ginger), minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Whisk to Combine: Whisk all the sauce ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
• Adjust Consistency with Water: If the sauce is too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking well after each addition, until you reach your desired consistency. The sauce should be pourable but still thick enough to coat the tofu nicely.
• Taste and Adjust: Taste the peanut sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add more soy sauce for saltiness, maple syrup for sweetness, rice vinegar for tanginess, or red pepper flakes for heat, depending on your preference.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

• Remove Tofu from Oven: Once the tofu is crispy and golden brown, remove it from the oven.
• Toss with Peanut Sauce (Optional): You can either toss the crispy baked tofu with the peanut sauce in a bowl to coat it evenly, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Tossing ensures every piece is flavorful, while serving on the side allows for more control over the sauce-to-tofu ratio.
• Garnish (Optional): Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or cilantro for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Serve Immediately: Serve the Crispy Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce immediately while it’s still warm and crispy. It’s delicious served over rice, noodles, salads, or in wraps and bowls.

Nutrition Facts: A Healthy and Delicious Choice

This Crispy Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce is not only incredibly delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Here’s a glimpse into what a serving offers (approximate values per serving, based on 4 servings):

• Serving Size: Approximately ¼ of the recipe.
• Calories: Around 350-400 calories per serving. This will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
• Protein: Approximately 15-20 grams of protein per serving. Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle building and satiety.
• Healthy Fats: Approximately 20-25 grams of fat per serving. The fats primarily come from peanut butter and sesame oil, which are sources of healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
• Sodium: Moderately high in sodium, approximately 500-700mg per serving. This comes primarily from soy sauce. You can reduce sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce or tamari.
• Fiber: Provides a good source of fiber, contributing to digestive health and promoting fullness. Fiber content will vary based on serving size and accompaniments.

Please note: These are estimated values and may vary. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time: Quick and Easy for Weeknights

This recipe is wonderfully efficient, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Pressing Tofu: 30-60 minutes (inactive time) – While the tofu is pressing, you can prepare other components of your meal or relax!
• Marinating Tofu: 15 minutes (minimum) – Can be done while the oven preheats.
• Prep & Coating Tofu: 15 minutes (active time) – Cutting the tofu, making the marinade, and coating with cornstarch.
• Baking Tofu: 35-45 minutes (inactive time) – Oven time, during which you can prepare the peanut sauce and side dishes.
• Peanut Sauce Prep: 10 minutes (active time) – Whisking together the sauce ingredients.

Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours (including pressing time), with about 30-40 minutes of active cooking time. If you use a tofu press, you can significantly reduce the pressing time.

How to Serve: Versatile and Delicious in Many Ways

Crispy Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Over Rice or Grains:
  • Classic Rice Bowl: Serve over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a satisfying and complete meal.
  • Noodle Bowls: Toss with cooked noodles like udon, soba, or rice noodles for an Asian-inspired noodle bowl.
  • Grain Bowls: Create a vibrant grain bowl with a base of quinoa or farro, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of peanut sauce.
• In Wraps and Sandwiches:
  • Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the crispy tofu into crisp lettuce cups for a light and refreshing appetizer or meal.
  • Spring Rolls: Add the tofu to fresh spring rolls with vermicelli noodles, vegetables, and herbs.
  • Banh Mi Inspired Sandwich: Layer the tofu in a baguette with pickled vegetables, cilantro, and a smear of peanut sauce for a delicious vegan banh mi.
• With Vegetables and Salads:
  • Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers for a balanced and nutritious meal.
  • Asian-Inspired Salad: Toss the tofu with a fresh salad of mixed greens, shredded carrots, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette, drizzled with extra peanut sauce.
  • Stir-fries: Add the crispy baked tofu to your favorite stir-fries for a protein boost.
• As an Appetizer or Snack:
  • Peanut Tofu Skewers: Thread the crispy tofu onto skewers and serve as a fun appetizer or party snack with extra peanut sauce for dipping.
  • Tofu Bites: Enjoy the crispy tofu pieces on their own as a satisfying and flavorful snack.

Additional Tips for Crispy Tofu Perfection and Flavor Customization

Want to take your Crispy Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce to the next level? Here are some additional tips and tricks:

1. Don’t Skip Pressing!: Pressing tofu is absolutely crucial for achieving crispy baked tofu. Removing excess water allows the tofu to brown and crisp up properly in the oven, rather than steaming. The drier the tofu, the crispier it will be.
2. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: While 15 minutes of marinating is sufficient, marinating for longer (up to a few hours in the refrigerator) will infuse the tofu with even more flavor. This is especially beneficial if you want a more pronounced savory and aromatic profile.
3. Even Cornstarch Coating is Key: Ensure that the tofu pieces are evenly coated in cornstarch. This creates a consistent crispy crust all over. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the cornstarch, but remember to shake off the excess to avoid a powdery texture.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Arrange the tofu in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece. Overcrowding will cause the tofu to steam instead of bake and crisp. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
5. High Heat is Your Friend: Baking at 400°F (200°C) is essential for achieving crispy tofu. The high heat helps to quickly evaporate moisture and create that desirable golden-brown crust.
6. Adjust Spice Level to Your Preference: The recipe includes red pepper flakes for a touch of heat in the peanut sauce. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking or omit them altogether if you prefer a milder sauce. You can also add a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce for extra spice.
7. Customize the Peanut Sauce: The peanut sauce is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different flavors. Add a squeeze of lemon juice instead of lime, use different types of vinegar, or incorporate other spices like cumin or coriander. You can also add a touch of sweetness with honey or brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter sauce (adjusting for vegan preferences if needed).
8. Reheat for Crispy Leftovers: Leftover crispy baked tofu can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tofu soggy. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

FAQ: Your Crispy Baked Tofu Questions Answered

Got questions about making crispy baked tofu with peanut sauce? Here are some frequently asked questions to help you along the way:

Q1: Can I use silken or soft tofu for this recipe?

A: No, it’s crucial to use extra-firm tofu for this recipe. Silken and soft tofu have a much higher water content and will not crisp up properly in the oven. They are better suited for creamy dishes, smoothies, or sauces. Extra-firm tofu is designed to hold its shape and crisp when cooked.

Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari, which is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Also, ensure you use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch for coating the tofu, as some cornstarch brands may contain trace amounts of gluten.

Q3: Can I bake the tofu in an air fryer instead of the oven?

A: Yes, air frying is an excellent way to achieve even crispier tofu! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the cornstarch-coated tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket (you may need to do this in batches). Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until golden brown and crispy.

Q4: Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

A: Yes, the peanut sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. In fact, the flavors often meld and deepen over time. You may need to add a tablespoon or two of water to thin it out slightly when reheating, as it may thicken in the fridge.

Q5: What if I don’t have maple syrup or agave? Can I use another sweetener?

A: Yes, you can substitute maple syrup or agave with other sweeteners like honey (if not vegan), brown sugar, or even granulated sugar. However, maple syrup and agave add a subtle depth of flavor that complements the savory notes in the recipe. If using granulated sugar, you might want to add a tiny pinch of molasses for a richer flavor profile.

Q6: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?

A: While creamy peanut butter is recommended for a smooth sauce, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a sauce with a bit of texture. The sauce will be slightly thicker and have small peanut pieces. If you want a smoother sauce but only have crunchy peanut butter, you can try blending the sauce briefly to break down the peanut pieces.

Q7: How do I store leftover crispy baked tofu?

A: Store leftover crispy baked tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results in maintaining crispiness, store the tofu and peanut sauce separately. Reheat the tofu in the oven or air fryer as described in the tips to restore its crispy texture.

Q8: Can I freeze crispy baked tofu?

A: Freezing crispy baked tofu is not recommended as it can significantly alter the texture and make it less crispy and somewhat soggy upon thawing and reheating. It is best to enjoy crispy baked tofu fresh or within a few days of making it. The peanut sauce, however, freezes well in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

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