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
Scale
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.
