How To Bake A Block Of Tofu

How to Bake Tofu to Perfection

Are you looking for a delicious and versatile protein option for your meals? Tofu is a fantastic choice! Not only is it packed with protein, but it also absorbs flavors like a sponge, making it a great addition to a variety of dishes. One of the best ways to prepare tofu is by baking it. Baking tofu gives it a crispy texture on the outside while keeping it tender on the inside. If you’re new to cooking with tofu, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with this simple guide on how to bake a block of tofu to perfection.

Ingredients:

• 1 block of firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your tofu cooks evenly and gets crispy on the outside.
2. Prepare the tofu: Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain any excess water. To remove excess moisture, wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel and gently press down to squeeze out the water. Once the excess water is removed, cut the tofu into cubes or slices, depending on your preference.
3. Marinate the tofu: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place the tofu in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring that each piece is coated evenly. Let the tofu marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
4. Arrange the tofu on a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent the tofu from sticking. Arrange the marinated tofu pieces in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring that there is some space between each piece.
5. Bake the tofu: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the tofu for 25-30 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and crispy. You can flip the tofu halfway through the baking time to ensure that it cooks evenly on all sides.
6. Enjoy your baked tofu: Once the tofu is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Baked tofu can be enjoyed on its own as a snack, added to salads, stir-fries, or used as a protein-packed topping for bowls and wraps.

Now that you know how to bake a block of tofu, you can experiment with different seasonings and marinades to create a variety of flavorful tofu dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned tofu enthusiast or trying it for the first time, baked tofu is a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. Give it a try and elevate your plant-based cooking game!