Golden Oven-Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce is a perfect blend of crispy, savory tofu paired with a creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy peanut sauce. This dish not only offers a plant-based protein boost but also brings an explosion of flavors that will please any palate. Oven-baked tofu is a healthier alternative to fried versions, as it requires minimal oil yet still delivers a delightful crunch. The accompanying peanut sauce complements the tofu with its nutty richness, making it an ideal dish for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even gatherings where you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
For the Tofu:
– 1 block (14 oz) of extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– One teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Peanut Sauce:
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
– One tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
– 1/2 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (optional for heat)
– 1/4 cup coconut milk or water, to thin
– One small garlic clove, minced
– 1/2 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated (optional but recommended)
Preparation:
Preparing the Tofu:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the tofu by draining it thoroughly. Place the tofu block on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, place a heavy object on top, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to press out excess moisture.
Step 3: Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or triangles, depending on your preference.
Step4: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Add the tofu pieces to the bowl, sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu, and gently toss until each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. The cornstarch will help create a crispy coating during baking.
Step 6: Spread the tofu pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through to ensure even crisping on all sides. Bake until golden and crisp.
Preparing the Peanut Sauce:
Step 1: In a small mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and maple syrup.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger for added depth of flavor. Stir well.
Step 3: Gradually add coconut milk or water, a little at a time, while stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. It should be creamy and pourable but not too runny.
Step 4: Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more soy sauce for saltiness, vinegar for tanginess, or chili paste if you want it spicier.
Step 5: Set aside the sauce for serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
Variations:
– Spicy Tofu: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili paste to the tofu marinade for a spicy kick.
– Sweet and Spicy Peanut Sauce: Increase the maple syrup or honey in the peanut sauce for a sweeter flavor, and balance it with extra chili paste for sweet-heat goodness.
– Ginger-Lime Peanut Sauce: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice and extra grated ginger to the peanut sauce for a tangy twist that pairs well with the tofu.
– Herb-Crusted Tofu: Toss in finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresh herbal taste along with the tofu marinade.
– Extra Crispy Tofu: If you prefer an extra-crunchy tofu, sprinkle additional cornstarch before baking or consider broiling the tofu for the last few minutes.
Cooking Note:
Ensure the tofu is well-pressed before baking, as this will reduce moisture and help it crisp up. Cornstarch plays a crucial role in adding that extra crunch, so don’t skip it. The peanut sauce can be adjusted in consistency by controlling the amount of coconut milk or water you add. If storing leftovers, keep the tofu and sauce separate, as the tofu may lose its crispiness if left in the sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
– Serve the golden oven-baked tofu with peanut sauce over a bed of jasmine or brown rice for a hearty meal.
– Pair with stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots to make it a complete, balanced dish.
– Add a side of sliced cucumbers or a quick Asian-style slaw to bring freshness to the dish.
– This tofu and peanut sauce combination also works well in a wrap or as a filling for lettuce cups, creating a portable meal option.
Tips:
– For an even more flavorful tofu, let the tofu pieces marinate in the seasoning mix for 10-15 minutes before adding cornstarch and baking.
– If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the pressing and use super-firm tofu, which has less moisture than regular tofu.
– Keep a close eye on the tofu towards the end of the baking time to avoid overcooking, as baking times can vary depending on the oven.
– The peanut sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just give it a stir and adjust the thickness with a splash of water if needed before serving.
Prep Time:
– Prep Time: 20 minutes (including tofu pressing time)
– Cooking Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
– Calories: 280
– Protein: 12g
– Sodium: 450mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different sauce with the baked tofu?
A: Absolutely! The baked tofu is versatile and pairs well with many sauces, including sweet chili sauce, teriyaki, or even a simple soy and ginger dressing.
Q: How can I make the tofu extra crispy without using much oil?
A: Pressing the tofu well and using cornstarch are key to crispiness. For an even crispier texture, consider using a convection setting on your oven or broiling for the last 1-2 minutes of baking.
Q: Can I make this recipe nut-free?
A: Yes, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a similar creamy texture.
Q: How long does this dish keep?
A: The tofu can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though it may lose some crispiness. The peanut sauce will last up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I freeze the peanut sauce or tofu?
A: While the tofu may not retain its ideal texture after freezing, the peanut sauce can be frozen. Just thaw it in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.
Conclusion:
Golden Oven-Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together wholesome, plant-based ingredients in a delicious and nutritious way. Whether you’re looking to try a new meat-free meal or simply want to enjoy the fantastic combination of crispy tofu and creamy peanut sauce, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With minimal prep time, a variety of serving options, and easy substitutions for dietary needs, this recipe can become a staple in any kitchen.
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Golden Oven-Baked Tofu Paired with Peanut Sauce
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Tofu:
– 1 block (14 oz) of extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– One teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Peanut Sauce:
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
– One tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
– 1/2 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (optional for heat)
– 1/4 cup coconut milk or water, to thin
– One small garlic clove, minced
– 1/2 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated (optional but recommended)
Instructions
Preparation:
Preparing the Tofu:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the tofu by draining it thoroughly. Place the tofu block on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, place a heavy object on top, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to press out excess moisture.
Step 3: Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or triangles, depending on your preference.
Step4: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Add the tofu pieces to the bowl, sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu, and gently toss until each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. The cornstarch will help create a crispy coating during baking.
Step 6: Spread the tofu pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through to ensure even crisping on all sides. Bake until golden and crisp.
Preparing the Peanut Sauce:
Step 1: In a small mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and maple syrup.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger for added depth of flavor. Stir well.
Step 3: Gradually add coconut milk or water, a little at a time, while stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. It should be creamy and pourable but not too runny.
Step 4: Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more soy sauce for saltiness, vinegar for tanginess, or chili paste if you want it spicier.
Step 5: Set aside the sauce for serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
Notes
Ensure the tofu is well-pressed before baking, as this will reduce moisture and help it crisp up. Cornstarch plays a crucial role in adding that extra crunch, so don’t skip it. The peanut sauce can be adjusted in consistency by controlling the amount of coconut milk or water you add. If storing leftovers, keep the tofu and sauce separate, as the tofu may lose its crispiness if left in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (including tofu pressing time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 450mg
- Protein: 12g