Name: Crispy Oven-Baked Tofu with Creamy Peanut Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: – 1 block (14-16 ounces) extra-firm tofu; – 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option); – 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil; – 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder; – Salt and pepper, to taste; – 1/4 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky, as preferred); – 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari; – 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; – One tablespoon maple syrup or honey; – 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional for extra flavor); – 1 garlic clove, minced; – 2-3 tablespoons warm water (adjust for desired consistency); – Chopped fresh cilantro; – Crushed peanuts; – Green onions, chopped; – Sesame seeds; – Lime wedges

Crispy Oven-Baked Tofu with Creamy Peanut Sauce is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for both vegans and non-vegans alike. This recipe highlights the magic of tofu when it’s baked to perfection, resulting in a satisfying texture that’s golden and crisp on the outside while tender on the inside. Paired with a rich and creamy peanut sauce, this dish is loaded with flavor and makes for a versatile meal. Whether you’re looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet or simply want to try a new recipe, this tofu dish is an excellent choice.

Ingredients:

For the Crispy Tofu:
– 1 block (14-16 ounces) extra-firm tofu
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Peanut Sauce:
– 1/4 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky, as preferred)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– One tablespoon maple syrup or honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional for extra flavor)
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 2-3 tablespoons warm water (adjust for desired consistency)

Optional Garnishes:
– Chopped fresh cilantro
– Crushed peanuts
– Green onions, chopped
– Sesame seeds
– Lime wedges

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. To do this, wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, place it on a plate, and set something heavy on top, like a skillet or a stack of books. Let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes to press out as much water as possible.
3. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch pieces.

Step 2: Season and Coat the Tofu

1. Place the tofu cubes in a large mixing bowl.
2. Drizzle soy sauce and olive oil over the tofu, then gently toss to coat each piece evenly.
3. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu, tossing it again to ensure an even, light coating. This will help make the tofu crispy when baked.
4. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.

Step 3: Bake the Tofu

1. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced out to allow for even baking.
2. Bake the tofu for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure all sides become golden and crispy.
3. Remove from the oven once the tofu is crispy and golden.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Peanut Sauce

1. While the tofu is baking, prepare the peanut sauce by adding peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, ginger, and minced garlic into a small mixing bowl.
2. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth. Gradually add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. It should be creamy but pourable.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Once the tofu is done baking, transfer it to a serving plate or bowl.
2. Drizzle the creamy peanut sauce over the crispy tofu or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
3. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, crushed peanuts, green onions, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Variations:

– Spicy Peanut Sauce: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the peanut sauce for a bit of heat.
– Coconut Peanut Sauce: Replace water with coconut milk for a creamier, tropical twist on the sauce.
– Sweet and Sour Tofu: Add a tablespoon of hoisin or sweet chili sauce to the peanut sauce for a unique flavor profile.
– Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe completely gluten-free.
– Air Fryer Option: For an even crisper tofu, cook the tofu cubes in an air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Cooking Note:

The key to crispy tofu is removing as much moisture as possible before baking. Pressing the tofu thoroughly ensures it bakes to a golden crisp rather than steaming in the oven. Additionally, cornstarch is an important ingredient as it gives the tofu an extra crispy coating without the need for frying.

Serving Suggestions:

Crispy Oven-Baked Tofu with Creamy Peanut Sauce can be served in a variety of ways:
– Rice Bowl: Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice, along with stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots.
– Noodle Salad: Pair with cold soba or rice noodles, tossed with fresh cucumber, carrots, and leafy greens.
– Taco Filling: Use the tofu as a filling in soft tacos, topped with shredded cabbage and a drizzle of the peanut sauce.
– Lettuce Wraps: Place the tofu in lettuce cups for a fresh, low-carb option.
– Side Dish or Appetizer: Serve on a platter as a shareable appetizer with the peanut sauce as a dipping option.

Tips:

– Use Extra-Firm Tofu: Extra-firm tofu holds its shape better and crisps up more easily than softer varieties.
– Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you find the peanut sauce too thick, add more water a little at a time until it reaches your preferred consistency.
– Avoid Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: For the crispiest results, ensure the tofu cubes are spaced out on the baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate around them.
– Leftover Sauce: The peanut sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s versatile and can be used as a dip, salad dressing, or sauce for other dishes.

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Cooking Time:
30 minutes

Total Time:
50 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately):
– Calories: 280
– Protein: 12g
– Sodium: 580mg (varies with soy sauce)

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the tofu ahead of time, bake it, and reheat it in the oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness before serving. The peanut sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Q: What can I use instead of cornstarch?
A: Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch are great alternatives that will still give you that crispy texture.

Q: Can I substitute almond or cashew butter for peanut butter?
A: Absolutely! Both almond and cashew butter work well and provide a slightly different flavor profile while still offering creaminess.

Q: Is there a way to make this dish oil-free?
A: You can skip the oil in the tofu marinade, though the texture may be slightly less crisp. Using parchment paper on the baking sheet will prevent sticking.

Q: How long does leftover tofu stay good?
A: Store any leftover tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

Conclusion:

Crispy Oven-Baked Tofu with Creamy Peanut Sauce is a versatile, easy-to-make recipe that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s ideal for those exploring plant-based eating or anyone looking to add a new, delicious dish to their rotation. With crispy tofu and a rich, savory peanut sauce, this recipe offers a satisfying texture and a depth of flavor that’s sure to please. Whether you serve it over rice, toss it into a salad, or enjoy it as a standalone snack, this dish is as flexible as it is tasty. Try it out and enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal that will surely become a new favorite.