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If you’re in the mood for a dish that perfectly balances crunch, creaminess, and bold flavors, the Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu Recipe is an absolute game-changer. This recipe transforms simple tofu into irresistibly crispy cubes coated in a luscious and tangy peanut sauce that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re a longtime tofu fan or experimenting with plant-based protein for the first time, this dish delivers a satisfying texture and flavor combination that never disappoints. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight but special enough to impress friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu Recipe lies in a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a unique role in creating the perfect balance of texture, taste, and color that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Extra-firm tofu (14 oz): The star of the dish, it holds up well when pressed and baked for maximum crispiness.
- Soy sauce or tamari (3 tablespoons total): Adds rich umami and a hint of saltiness that elevates every bite.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the tofu develop a golden, crispy exterior in the oven.
- Cornstarch or arrowroot powder (2 tablespoons): The secret to that irresistible crunchy coating on each tofu cube.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/4 cup): Creates the luscious and nutty base for the irresistible peanut sauce.
- Rice vinegar or lime juice (1 tablespoon): Introduces a bright, tangy note that balances the richness of the peanut butter.
- Maple syrup or honey (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory elements perfectly.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon, optional): Brings a toasty depth and aroma to the peanut sauce.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Infuses the sauce with a subtle, savory warmth.
- Ginger powder or fresh minced ginger (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a gentle zing that livens up the flavor profile.
- Water (2-4 tablespoons): Used to thin the peanut sauce to a smooth, perfect pourable consistency.
How to Make Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu to remove as much moisture as possible—this step is critical for achieving that coveted crispy texture. Wrap the block in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel, place it on a plate, and set a heavy object on top for 10 to 15 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready to give your tofu a beautiful golden bake.
Step 2: Cut and Marinate the Tofu
Once pressed, cut your tofu into 1-inch cubes. Toss them gently in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of olive oil, making sure each cube is evenly coated for flavor and crispiness. Next, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of cornstarch over the tofu and toss again to coat every surface—this is what will give you that crunchy outer layer. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, preparing the tofu perfectly for baking.
Step 3: Bake the Tofu
Arrange your tofu cubes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure even cooking and easy cleanup. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the cubes halfway through so they brown beautifully on all sides. When done, you’ll have golden, crispy tofu cubes that are ready to get even tastier with the peanut sauce.
Step 4: Make the Peanut Sauce for Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu Recipe
While the tofu is baking, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil (if using), garlic powder, and ginger powder in a small bowl. Slowly add 2 to 4 tablespoons of water until you reach a smooth and pourable consistency. This sauce is rich, tangy, a little sweet, and packed with flavor—the perfect match for crispy tofu.
Step 5: Coat the Tofu with Peanut Sauce
Once your tofu is baked to crispy perfection, you have two delicious choices. Toss the warm tofu cubes in the peanut sauce to coat every crispy surface generously. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side as a dip if you want to keep the tofu extra crunchy. Either way, the combination is a total winner.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu Recipe is now ready to be savored. The mix of crunchy tofu and creamy peanut sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser no matter how you serve it.
How to Serve Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu Recipe
Garnishes
The right garnishes can take your Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu Recipe from delicious to dazzling. Try sprinkling chopped green onions for a fresh, sharp bite or sesame seeds for added crunch and nuttiness. Crushed peanuts are also amazing—they enhance the peanut flavor and add a delightful textural contrast.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over steaming jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up all that wonderful peanut sauce. Alternatively, a crisp vegetable stir-fry with broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas adds vibrancy and extra nutrients, creating a perfectly balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests or just add a fresh twist? Try presenting the tofu on a bed of mixed greens tossed with a light sesame dressing. You can also use it as a filling in lettuce wraps or pile it on top of warm noodles with extra sauce drizzled over. The versatility of this Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu Recipe means it’s always fun to get creative!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers—which might be unlikely!—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the tofu fresh and maintains the flavors of the peanut sauce without getting soggy too quickly.
Freezing
This tofu freezes well and makes for a fantastic ready-to-go meal. Place the baked tofu cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 1 month. When thawed, the texture may soften slightly, but reheating them in the oven restores much of the crispiness.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, reheat the tofu in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will revive the crunch and warm the peanut sauce nicely if you tossed the tofu beforehand. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crisp exterior intact.
FAQs
Can I use soft tofu instead of extra-firm tofu?
Extra-firm tofu is best because it holds its shape and crisps up well in the oven. Soft tofu tends to crumble and won’t get as crispy, so it’s not recommended for this recipe.
Is it possible to make the peanut sauce nut-free?
You can experiment by substituting peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini, but the flavor will be different. The peanut sauce is a signature element, so try it as is to get the classic taste.
Can I bake the tofu without using oil?
While olive oil helps achieve a golden crust, you can omit it if needed. The cornstarch coating will still create some crunch, but the tofu might be slightly less crispy and golden.
How do I make the tofu extra crispy?
Pressing the tofu thoroughly, coating it evenly in cornstarch, and baking at a high temperature while turning halfway through ensures maximum crispiness. Avoid crowding the baking sheet so each cube gets enough heat exposure.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use tamari instead of soy sauce, and double-check your other ingredients like maple syrup and peanut butter to ensure they’re gluten-free. The recipe is naturally compatible with gluten-free diets with these substitutions.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu Recipe is one of those gems that feels both familiar and exciting with every bite. It’s crunchy, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy tofu in a deliciously new way. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite tofu recipe that keeps you coming back for more!
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Print
Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu is a delicious and healthy plant-based dish featuring extra-firm tofu baked to golden crispiness and coated in a rich, creamy peanut sauce. Perfect as a main or side, it’s packed with flavor from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and maple syrup, offering a satisfying texture and a balanced blend of sweet, salty, and nutty tastes.
Ingredients
For the Tofu
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Peanut Sauce
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or lime juice)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder (or fresh minced ginger)
- 2–4 tablespoons water (to thin the sauce)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drain the tofu and press it between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Place a heavy object on top and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to ensure the tofu crisps well when baked.
- Cut and Marinate the Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, toss the tofu with soy sauce and olive oil until evenly coated. Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu and toss again to coat all pieces. Season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Bake the Tofu: Spread the tofu cubes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the cubes halfway through, until the tofu becomes golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Make the Peanut Sauce: While the tofu bakes, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil (if using), garlic powder, and ginger powder in a small bowl. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Coat the Tofu with Peanut Sauce (Optional): Toss the baked tofu gently in the peanut sauce to coat each piece evenly. Alternatively, serve the peanut sauce on the side for dipping if you prefer to keep the tofu extra crispy.
- Serve: Garnish the tofu with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor. Serve over cooked rice, quinoa, or a fresh vegetable stir-fry for a complete meal.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu is essential to remove excess moisture and achieve a crispy texture when baked.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Adjust the consistency of the peanut sauce by adding more or less water as needed.
- For extra flavor, try adding fresh minced ginger instead of ginger powder in the sauce.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the tofu at its crispiest; leftover tofu can be stored but may lose some crunchiness.
