My Baked Tofu recipe is a sure shot way to make anyone fall in love with Tofu. It’s crisp, chewy and tasty without any cornstarch or fillers. It will come in handy for your weekly meal preps and will provide an excellent dose of plant-protein to your meals.

Tofu is a versatile and nutritious plant-based protein that can be transformed into a crispy, flavorful dish when baked to perfection. If you’ve ever struggled with making tofu taste delicious, this recipe is for you.

My baked tofu recipe uses simple ingredients to create a crispy and savory delight that can be enjoyed in salads, grain bowls, or as a standalone snack.

It’s a weekly staple at home for our lunch. Even my son loves it and gobbles it up without any complaints. I’ve made it countless times, and it’s a super hit at home.

I’ve made it with and without oil. Feel free to skip the oil. It will make it less crispy, but will taste exactly the same and will make no difference in salad bowls or soups.

Why You’ll Love Baked Tofu

Baked tofu is a game-changer, especially if you’re looking for a healthier, high-protein alternative to fried options. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

Crispy Texture: Baking tofu gives it a satisfying crunch on the outside while remaining tender inside.
Packed with Flavor: The simple yet effective seasoning blend enhances the natural umami of tofu.
Easy to Make: Requires minimal ingredients and effort.
Versatile: Pairs well with various dishes, from salads to stir-fries.
Healthy and Nutritious: Tofu is rich in plant-based protein, low in calories, and a great source of calcium and iron. It has the highest bio-available protein of all the plant based proteins.

Health Benefits of Tofu

Tofu is not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Here are some key health benefits:

High in Protein: Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
Rich in Calcium and Iron: Supports bone health and helps prevent iron deficiency.
Heart-Healthy: Contains isoflavones, which may help lower bad cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
Weight Management: Low in calories and high in protein, which helps keep you full longer.
Good for Digestion: Tofu is easy to digest and can be a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant.
Supports Hormonal Balance: Isoflavones in tofu may help balance hormone levels, especially in menopausal women.

Check out recipes from my blog to compliment this Baked Tofu recipe

Ingredients for this Baked Tofu Recipe

To make this crispy and flavorful baked tofu, you’ll need:

Super Firm Tofu

This variety requires minimal pressing and holds its shape well when baked. You can replace it with Extra-Firm or Firm Tofu. Just make sure you press it well to remove all the moisture.

Coconut Aminos or Tamari

These add depth and a slightly salty umami flavor without overpowering the tofu. You can use soy sauce also.

Garlic Powder

Enhances the savory profile of the tofu. Feel free to add/replace it with onion powder

Rice Vinegar

Adds a subtle tanginess to balance the flavors.

Salt

Enhances the overall taste and brings out the natural flavors of the tofu.

Sesame Oil (Optional)

Add a dash of sesame oil to the marinade for extra-crispy Tofu bites.

Step-by-Step Instructions for this Baked Tofu Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu for this Baked Tofu Recipe

Start by draining the tofu and patting it dry with a clean towel or paper towel. If you are using firm or extra-firm tofu instead of super firm, you’ll need to press it for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture.

If I use extra-firm tofu, I like to place it in between two clean towels, put a baking sheet on top of the towel and place a heavy object like a mortar pestle on the baking sheet. I leave it like that for at least 20 minutes. It works every single time, without the use of any fancy gadgets like a Tofu press.

Cut the tofu into evenly sized cubes or rectangles for even baking.

Step 2: Marinate the Tofu

In a bowl, whisk together the coconut aminos or tamari, garlic powder, rice vinegar, and salt. Add the tofu pieces to the mixture and gently toss to coat. I cover the bowl with a plate and shake it well. It coats all the Tofu without breaking them. Try it and you’ll be amazed by this easy hack! Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

At the end of marination, add oil if you want to and shake the bowl using the same hack.

Step 3: Preheat and Arrange

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the marinated tofu pieces in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching each other for even crisping.

Arrange the marinated Tofu in a baking tray

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the tofu for 20 minutes, then flip each piece to ensure even cooking. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a protein-packed snack, or add it to salads, grain bowls, or wraps for a flavorful boost.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Tofu

Use Super Firm Tofu: This eliminates the need for pressing and helps achieve the best texture.
Don’t Skip Marination: Allowing the tofu to sit in the marinade enhances its flavor.
Ensure Even Spacing: Keeping the tofu pieces apart on the baking sheet helps them crisp up properly.
Flip Midway: Turning the tofu ensures all sides get evenly crispy.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or sesame oil for additional flavor variations.

Serving Suggestions for this Baked Tofu Recipe

Baked tofu is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are some delicious serving ideas:

In Grain Bowls: Pair baked tofu with quinoa, brown rice, or farro along with roasted veggies and a flavorful sauce.
On Salads: Add it to a fresh green salad with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy dressing.
In Wraps or Sandwiches: Use it as a protein source in wraps or sandwiches with fresh veggies and hummus.
With Stir-Fries: Toss it into a vegetable stir-fry for an extra protein boost.
As a Snack: Enjoy it on its own with a dipping sauce like peanut sauce, sriracha mayo, or tahini dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions for this Baked Tofu Recipe

How Do I Store Baked Tofu?

Store leftover baked tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Can I Freeze Baked Tofu?

Yes! Let the tofu cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for a crispy texture.

Can I Use Regular Soy Sauce Instead of Tamari?

Yes, but regular soy sauce contains gluten, while tamari is gluten-free. If you’re gluten-sensitive, stick with tamari or coconut aminos.

Why Is My Tofu Not Crispy?

Make sure to remove excess moisture before baking, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, and bake at a high temperature for the best results.

Baked tofu is a simple, delicious, and healthy addition to any meal. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite. Try it out and enjoy crispy, flavorful tofu every time!