Here is a simple recipe on how to make crispy baked tofu. The baked tofu is great as a side dish to fried rice, salads, or grain bowls.
Prep Time10 minutesmins
Cook Time35 minutesmins
Additional Time30 minutesmins
Total Time1 hourhr15 minutesmins
Ingredients
1(14 ounce) package of extra firm tofu (or 16-ounce super firm tofu)
1tablespoonolive oil
2 1/2tablespoonsteriyaki sauce, plus more for drizzling (see note)
1/2teaspoonkosher salt
1tablespooncornstarch
Optional Garnish
toasted sesame seeds
sliced scallions
Instructions
If you are using extra-firm tofu: Drain the tofu from the package. Wrap the tofu with a cheesecloth, muslin, or a layer of paper towels. Place the wrapped tofu on a plate and place a small skillet or a stack of plates over the tofu. Press the tofu for at least 30 minutes.
If you are using super-firm tofu: Drain the tofu from the package. Wrap the tofu with a cheesecloth, muslin, or a layer of paper towels. Use your hands to gently press the tofu gently to squeeze out any extra moisture. You do not need to press the tofu because the curds are already densely packed.
Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Position the oven rack to the center position.
Chop the block of tofu into 3/4-inch cubes. Transfer the tofu cubes to a mixing bowl.
Drizzle the olive oil and teriyaki sauce over the tofu. Sprinkle the salt on top. Gently toss the tofu to coat the pieces with the seasonings. Next, sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu, and gently toss the tofu again, until all the cornstarch is incorporated.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread out the tofu pieces over the baking sheet.
Bake the tofu for 20 minutes. Remove the tofu from the oven. Flip the pieces over and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the tofu is golden brown.
Remove the tofu from the oven and transfer it to a serving bowl. Drizzle the tofu with more teriyaki sauce so that it’s nice and flavorful. Note that the tofu will become less crispy with the extra sauce. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions, if you like.
Notes
If you do not have any teriyaki sauce on hand, use 4 teaspoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder/granulated garlic.