Welcome to a delicious and easy Asian baked tofu recipe that will elevate your meal prep game! This flavorful dish is perfect for those looking to add more plant-based proteins to their diet. With a delightful marinade and simple ingredients, this baked tofu is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and seasonings creates a delicious marinade that infuses the tofu with rich, savory flavors.
- Crispy: Baked to golden brown perfection, this tofu has a delightful crispy texture on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
- Versatile: Enjoy this baked tofu in salads, stir-fries, or as a protein-packed snack.
- Healthy: Tofu is a great source of protein and other essential nutrients, making it a perfect addition to a balanced diet.
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Ingredients
- Tofu Tofu, also known as bean curd, is a versatile plant-based protein made from soybeans. It's rich in protein and can be found in various textures, such as silken, firm, and extra-firm. For this recipe, extra-firm tofu is ideal as it holds its shape well and absorbs flavors effectively.
- Sugar Sugar adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory elements of the marinade. You can use white sugar, brown sugar, or natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave for a healthier alternative.
- Sesame Oil Sesame oil is a flavorful oil derived from sesame seeds. It's commonly used in Asian cuisine for its rich, nutty taste and aroma. It enhances the marinade's depth and adds a distinctive taste to the tofu.
- Soy Sauce Soy sauce is a staple in Asian cooking, made from fermented soybeans. It provides a salty, umami flavor that permeates the tofu, making it savory and delicious. Tamari or coconut aminos can be used as gluten-free alternatives.
- Vinegar Vinegar, such as rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar, adds a tangy acidity that brightens the marinade. It helps to tenderize the tofu and balance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Seasonings Seasonings like garlic powder and black pepper enhance the marinade's flavor. They add depth and a mild kick to the tofu. You can customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
- Black Bean Paste Black bean paste is an optional addition that can be used to give the tofu an extra flavor boost. It's typically a mix of spices and seasonings used to create a smoky, charred taste. Adding this paste can enhance the tofu's complexity and provide a slightly spicy edge.
Instructions
Prep the Tofu: Drain the tofu and press it using a tofu press or wrap it in paper towels and place a heavy object on top to remove excess water. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
Marinate the Tofu: In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cut the pressed tofu into cubes and place them in a medium bowl. Pour the marinade over the tofu, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best results.
Bake the Tofu: Preheat your oven to 375 F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. Arrange the marinated tofu cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Enjoy the baked tofu immediately or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It can be reheated in the oven or eaten cold.
Hint: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Ensure the tofu pieces are spread out in a single layer for even baking and crispy edges.
Substitutions
Soy Sauce: Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Sugar: Substitute with maple syrup, agave, or honey.
Sesame Oil: Olive oil or any neutral oil can be used if sesame oil is unavailable.
Variations
Spicy Tofu: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.Sweet and Sour Tofu: Replace the sugar with brown sugar and add a tablespoon of hoisin sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor.Herbed Tofu: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the marinade for an extra burst of flavor.
Equipment
- Large Pot: For boiling the spaghetti noodles until al dente.
- Colander: To drain the cooked spaghetti noodles.
- Large Skillet or Pan: For sautéing the zucchini, onions, and sofrito.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and tossing the ingredients in the skillet.
- Pasta Fork or Tongs: For lifting and serving the cooked spaghetti noodles.
- Measuring Spoons: To accurately measure the ingredients such as sesame oil, miso, tahini, and scallions.
- Serving Plates or Bowls: For plating and serving the finished Vegan Miso Oatmilk Ramen.
- Garlic Press or Microplane Zester: If using fresh garlic or lemon zest, respectively, these tools can help mince or grate them finely.
- Food Processor: If making homemade vegan pesto, a food processor can be handy for blending the ingredients into a smooth sauce.
- Pine Nut Grinder: If using whole pine nuts for garnish, a grinder can help crush them into smaller pieces before sprinkling over the finished dish.
Top tip
For the crispiest tofu, make sure to press out as much liquid as possible from the tofu before marinating. This helps the tofu absorb more flavor and achieve a better texture.
FAQ
Q: Can I use silken tofu for this recipe? A: It's best to use extra-firm tofu as silken tofu is too soft and won't hold up well during baking.
Q: How do I store leftover baked tofu? A: Store leftover baked tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Q: Can I freeze baked tofu? A: Yes, baked tofu can be frozen. Place the cooled tofu pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
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Pairing
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Asian Baked Tofu Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 block Tofu pressed
- 1 tablespoon Sugar or maple syrup for a healthier alternative
- 2 tablespoon Sesame Oil
- 5 tablespoon Soy Sauce
- 2 tablespoon Vinegar
- Seasonings 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Black bean Paste: Optional for an extra flavor kick
Instructions
- Prep the Tofu: Drain the tofu and press it using a tofu press or wrap it in paper towels and place a heavy object on top to remove excess water. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
- Marinate the Tofu: In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cut the pressed tofu into cubes and place them in a medium bowl. Pour the marinade over the tofu, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best results.
- Bake the Tofu: Preheat your oven to 375 F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. Arrange the marinated tofu cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy the baked tofu immediately or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It can be reheated in the oven or eaten cold.
