Description
This Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu recipe features extra-firm tofu baked to golden perfection and coated in a rich, creamy peanut sauce with Asian-inspired flavors. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, this vegan and gluten-free dish makes a perfect main course served over rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables. Enhanced with aromatic ginger, garlic, and a touch of sweetness from maple syrup, topped with green onions and sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu and Coating
- 1 block (14 ounces) extra-firm tofu (pressed and cubed)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like avocado or canola)
Peanut Sauce
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 2–4 tablespoons warm water (to thin sauce)
Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Coat the Tofu: In a large bowl, gently toss the pressed and cubed tofu with the cornstarch, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, sesame oil, and neutral oil until each piece is evenly coated with the mixture, which will help ensure crispiness when baked.
- Arrange and Bake Tofu: Spread the coated tofu cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through to ensure even browning, until they turn golden and crispy on the outside.
- Make the Peanut Sauce: While the tofu bakes, whisk together the peanut butter, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and enough warm water (2 to 4 tablespoons) to reach a smooth, pourable sauce consistency.
- Toss Tofu in Sauce: After the tofu is baked, transfer it to a bowl and gently toss with the peanut sauce until all pieces are well coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Serve: Serve the peanut-coated tofu immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added color and crunch. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.
Notes
- This tofu is perfect over rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
- For a spicy kick, add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the peanut sauce.
- For extra crunch, toss in some crushed peanuts just before serving.
- Make sure to press the tofu well to remove excess water for optimal crispiness.
- If gluten is a concern, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free.
