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Spicy Crispy Roasted Tofu

This dish transforms humble blocks of firm tofu into a crunchy, spicy snack through roasting. The tofu is marinated in a flavorful spice mixture, then baked until golden and crispy, resulting in a chewy interior contrasted by a fiery, crispy exterior. Perfect for snacking or adding a bold protein to dishes.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz firm tofu pressed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos for soy-free
  • 1 tablespoon chili paste smoky or spicy, adjust to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil to add aroma and richness
  • 1 inch fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tablespoon oil high smoke-point like grapeseed or avocado

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • parchment paper or silicone mat
  • Spatula
  • kitchen towel or press

Method
 

  1. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and press it under a heavy skillet or weight for about 20 minutes to remove excess moisture. This helps it crisp up better in the oven.
  2. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes, making sure each piece is firm and even-sized for uniform baking.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili paste, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil to create a flavorful marinade.
  4. Place the tofu cubes in a shallow dish or bowl and pour the marinade over, tossing gently to coat each piece thoroughly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to soak up the flavors.
  5. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
  6. Arrange the marinated tofu cubes on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for even crisping. Drizzle with a tablespoon of oil to help achieve a crispy exterior.
  7. Bake the tofu for 12 minutes, then carefully flip each piece using a spatula or tongs. Return to the oven and bake for another 13-18 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and crispy, and the tofu emits a spicy, toasted aroma.
  8. Once crispy, remove the tofu from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the exterior to set and enhances crunchiness.
  9. Serve the spicy roasted tofu hot, garnished with chopped scallions or herbs if desired. Enjoy the chewy interior contrasted by the fiery, crispy coating.

Notes

Pressing the tofu thoroughly is key to achieving maximum crispiness. Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more chili paste or a splash of chili oil at the end for extra heat.