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Crispy Tofu Perfection! Crispy Tofu: master perfectly firm and golden tofu every time with our baking and air-frying methods. Ideal for adding plant-based prote

Crispy Tofu Perfection!

Crispy Tofu: master perfectly firm and golden tofu every time with our baking and air-frying methods. Ideal for adding plant-based protein to any meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz extra firm tofu
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

Method
 

  1. Wrap the block of tofu with paper towels and gently press from all sides to squeeze out excess water. Cut the tofu into 4 to 5 slices, then repeat pressing to remove more moisture. Cut each slice into 1-inch cubes. Gently press the cubed tofu with paper towels to remove any remaining moisture.
  2. Place the tofu into a mixing bowl and toss in oil and soy sauce. Then sprinkle half of the cornstarch and gently toss or mix with a silicone spatula. Sprinkle remaining cornstarch, salt, and pepper over and gently stir to evenly coat the tofu.
  3. To Bake: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the tofu on the lined baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. For extra crispy tofu, flip after 15-20 minutes and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
  4. To Air Fry: Spray the air fryer basket with oil or line with perforated parchment paper. Line the marinated tofu and air fry at 380 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes.
  5. To Pan Fry: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the coated tofu in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

Notes

- For the crispiest results, press your tofu for at least 30 minutes, or even longer if time allows, using a dedicated tofu press or heavy objects. This step is crucial for expelling excess water.
- If you're air-frying, avoid overcrowding the basket. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even air circulation and maximum crispness. I've found that overcrowding is the quickest way to end up with steamed, not crispy, tofu.
- When baking for extra crispness, flip the tofu cubes halfway through the baking time and increase the baking duration by 5-10 minutes.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.