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Crispy Baked Tofu Recipe with Creamy Peanut Sauce Easy and Perfect

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A quick and easy recipe for crispy baked tofu paired with a rich and tangy creamy peanut sauce, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 block (14 oz / 400 g) extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter (natural, unsweetened)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons warm water
  • Red pepper flakes or sriracha to taste
  • Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro leaves, crushed peanuts

Instructions

  1. Press and drain the tofu for 10-15 minutes by wrapping it in a clean towel and placing a heavy object on top.
  2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  3. Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes or rectangles.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the tofu cubes gently to coat and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
  5. Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu and toss again to evenly coat each piece.
  6. Arrange the tofu pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through to crisp the other side.
  8. While the tofu bakes, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar or lime juice, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Add warm water one tablespoon at a time until the sauce is smooth and pourable.
  9. Serve the baked tofu drizzled with the creamy peanut sauce or with the sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, cilantro, or crushed peanuts as desired.

Notes

Pressing tofu thoroughly is essential for crispiness. Use cornstarch to create a crunchy exterior. Flip tofu carefully halfway through baking to avoid breaking pieces. Adjust peanut sauce thickness with warm water. For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. For nut-free, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.

Nutrition

Keywords: tofu recipe, baked tofu, crispy tofu, peanut sauce, vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, easy dinner, plant-based protein

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/crispy-baked-tofu-recipe-with-creamy-peanut-sauce-easy-and-perfect/