Crispy Baked Tofu

This crispy baked tofu is quick and easy to prepare, with the perfect blend of seasonings for delectable flavor and cornstarch for extra crispness. Bake up a batch today. Serve with hot mustard or ginger soy sauce.

This tofu is perfect for a light, healthy lunch or snack. It is enjoyable with many sauces, or simply bare.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

See the complete list of ingredients on the recipe card below.

• Tofu: Use extra-firm tofu for cubing and baking up crispy. Squeeze out the moisture by wrapping it in towels and pressing it with a heavy cast-iron skillet.
• Sesame oil: It will last in a cool, dark place for up to 8 months or in the refrigerator for up to 2 years. I use it in a lot of my Asian recipes.
• Soy Sauce: Preferably low-sodium soy sauce
• Smoked paprika: Not to be confused with sweet paprika. The red peppers are smoked over an oak fire before grinding them. It adds a lot of flavor dimension.
• Cayenne pepper: This small amount does not add heat; it adds flavor.

How To Make Crispy Baked Tofu

This is a summary version; for the complete list of ingredients and instructions, please refer to the recipe card below.

1. Cut the tofu in half lengthwise. Wrap it in a clean towel. Weigh it down with a heavy skillet to squeeze out the moisture. Let it sit weighted down for about 30 minutes.
2. Whisk the sesame oil and soy sauce together. Gently toss the tofu in the oil.
3. Combine the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and ground cayenne pepper. Sprinkle it over the tofu and toss gently to coat. Let it rest for a few minutes.
4. Sprinkle with cornstarch and toss to coat.
5. Bake on a parchment-paper-covered baking sheet in a single layer for 25 minutes or until crispy. Flip halfway through.

Preparation Tips for Success

• Always press the moisture off the bean curd by wrapping it in a clean towel and covering it with something heavy. It takes time, but it is well worth it for crispy tofu.
• The seasonings can be customized to taste. Try Chinese five spice, turmeric, cumin, or coriander for a change of pace.
• Use the convection setting on your stove to air fry the tofu. It will be crispier than the bake setting.

Ways To Serve It

• Pair it with basmati or jasmine rice, or stir-fried vegetables.
• Toss it in Asian noodle salad or Asian chopped salad.
• Serve it with comeback sauce, boom-boom sauce, or yum yum sauce.

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