How To Cook Tofu In Oven

How to Cook Tofu in the Oven

Tofu, also known as bean curd, is a versatile and protein-packed ingredient that is loved by many vegetarians and vegans alike. While tofu can be cooked in various ways, one of the simplest and most flavorful methods is baking it in the oven. In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps of cooking tofu in the oven, ensuring that it turns out crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

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
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• Optional: your choice of herbs and spices for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Drain the tofu block and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into your desired shape, such as cubes or slices.
3. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and any additional herbs or spices you’d like to incorporate.
4. Place the tofu pieces in the bowl and gently toss them in the marinade until they are well coated. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
6. Arrange the marinated tofu pieces on the baking sheet in a single layer, with some space between each piece.
7. Bake the tofu in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and crispy on the outside.
8. After the initial baking time, you can flip the tofu pieces and bake for an additional 10 minutes if you prefer an even crispier texture. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
9. Once the tofu is cooked to your desired level of crispiness, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
10. Now your perfectly baked tofu is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it as a protein-rich addition to stir-fries, salads, wraps, or simply enjoy it on its own!

Remember, tofu is like a blank canvas that can absorb the flavors of any marinade or seasoning you choose. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or even a hint of sweetness by adding a touch of maple syrup or honey to the marinade. The key to getting that crispy texture lies in removing the excess moisture from the tofu and allowing it to marinate before baking.

Cooking tofu in the oven is not only an easy and hassle-free method, but it also gives your tofu a deliciously crunchy exterior. So, the next time you want to enjoy a protein-packed vegetarian meal, give oven-baked tofu a try and savor its delectable taste and texture!