Crispy Baked Tofu Peanut (Printable)
Golden tofu cubes baked to crispiness with a rich, spicy peanut sauce and savory garnishes.
# What You Need:
→ For the Crispy Tofu
01 - 14 oz extra-firm tofu
02 - 2 tbsp cornstarch
03 - 2 tbsp neutral oil (canola or sunflower)
04 - 1/2 tsp salt
05 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
06 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
→ For the Spicy Peanut Sauce
07 - 4 tbsp creamy peanut butter
08 - 2 tbsp soy sauce
09 - 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave
10 - 1 tbsp rice vinegar
11 - 1 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce
12 - 2 tbsp warm water
13 - 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
14 - 1 clove garlic, minced
15 - 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
→ For Serving
16 - 2 spring onions, sliced
17 - 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
18 - Steamed jasmine rice or sautéed vegetables
# Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Drain tofu and press for 10-15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into 3/4-inch cubes.
03 - In a large bowl, gently toss tofu cubes with cornstarch, oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
04 - Arrange tofu in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
05 - While tofu bakes, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sriracha, water, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add more water as needed for desired consistency.
06 - Serve crispy baked tofu drizzled with spicy peanut sauce. Garnish with spring onions and sesame seeds. Pair with rice or vegetables if desired.
# Expert Hints:
01 -
- The contrast between shatteringly crispy outside and tender inside makes each bite feel special
- That peanut sauce is dangerously good you might find yourself eating it by the spoonful
- It comes together faster than delivery would arrive and tastes infinitely better
02 -
- Crowding the baking sheet is the fastest way to end up with soggy disappointment
- Let the tofu cool for just a few minutes after baking so it crisps up even more
- The sauce thickens as it sits so plan to thin it with another splash of water before serving
03 -
- Frozen then thawed tofu actually presses out more water and gets even crispier
- Toast your sesame seeds in a dry pan for just two minutes and the aroma will transform the dish