Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu

Introduction

Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu is a delightful plant-based dish featuring tofu that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside, paired with a savory peanut sauce. Ideal for a protein-packed meal, this recipe offers a crunchy texture and rich flavor, perfect for dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Tofu:

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Peanut Sauce:

• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or lime juice)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder (or fresh minced ginger)
• 2-4 tablespoons water (to thin the sauce)

Directions

1. Prepare the Tofu:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drain the tofu and press it between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Place a heavy object on top and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
2. Cut and Marinate the Tofu:
   • Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, toss the tofu with soy sauce and olive oil until evenly coated. Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu and toss again to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bake the Tofu:
   • Spread the tofu cubes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the Peanut Sauce:
   • While the tofu bakes, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil (if using), garlic powder, and ginger powder in a small bowl. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
5. Coat the Tofu with Peanut Sauce (Optional):
   • Toss the baked tofu in the peanut sauce to coat, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping to maintain extra crispiness.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts. Serve over rice, quinoa, or a fresh veggie stir-fry.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 10-15 minutes for pressing tofu)
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Sauce Alternatives: Substitute almond butter or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.
• Add-ins: Toss in some chopped veggies like bell peppers or broccoli before baking.
• Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the peanut sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover tofu and sauce separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the tofu in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to retain crispiness. The sauce can be gently reheated on the stove or in the microwave.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use regular tofu instead of extra-firm?
   • Extra-firm tofu works best for crispiness. Regular tofu may be too soft and won’t crisp up as well.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   • Yes, use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free.
3. How do I press tofu effectively?
   • Press tofu between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top to remove moisture.
4. Can I use a different nut butter?
   • Yes, almond or cashew butter can be used as alternatives to peanut butter.
5. What if I don’t have cornstarch?
   • Arrowroot powder can be used as a substitute. You can also try potato starch.
6. Can I bake the tofu in advance?
   • Yes, you can bake the tofu ahead of time and reheat it to maintain its crispiness.
7. How do I adjust the sauce thickness?
   • Add water gradually to achieve your desired consistency for the sauce.
8. Can I freeze the tofu?
   • It’s best enjoyed fresh, but tofu can be frozen before baking. Thaw and press before using.
9. Can I use homemade peanut butter?
   • Yes, homemade peanut butter will work as long as it’s creamy.
10. How do I make this recipe spicier?
    • Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the peanut sauce for added heat.

Conclusion

Baked Crispy Peanut Tofu is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, complemented by a rich peanut sauce, it’s an excellent choice for a plant-based meal. Whether enjoyed over rice, quinoa, or alongside a vegetable stir-fry, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

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