Crispy Baked Tofu Peanut (Printable Version)
Golden baked tofu coated in a creamy, savory peanut sauce with fresh herbs and spices.
# What You Need:
→ Tofu
01 - 14 oz extra-firm tofu
02 - 2 tbsp cornstarch
03 - 2 tbsp canola oil
04 - 1/2 tsp salt
05 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Peanut Sauce
06 - 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
07 - 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
08 - 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
09 - 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
10 - 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
11 - 1 garlic clove, minced
12 - 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
13 - 2–4 tbsp warm water
→ Garnish (optional)
14 - 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
15 - 2 spring onions, sliced
16 - Fresh cilantro leaves
# How-To Steps:
01 - Set the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Drain and press tofu for at least 10 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
03 - In a bowl, toss tofu cubes with canola oil, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
04 - Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer on the prepared sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
05 - Whisk peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger together. Gradually add warm water until the sauce is smooth and pourable.
06 - Transfer baked tofu to a large bowl, pour peanut sauce over, and gently toss to coat evenly.
07 - Plate tofu immediately, topped with toasted sesame seeds, sliced spring onions, and fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
# Helpful Tips:
01 -
- The cornstarch trick gives you restaurant-quality crunch without frying.
- That peanut sauce clings to every corner and tastes like comfort in a bowl.
- It works as a main dish or tossed into grain bowls all week long.
02 -
- Skipping the tofu press means soggy cubes, I learned that the hard way twice.
- Flip the tofu halfway through baking or one side stays pale and soft.
- Add the warm water to the sauce slowly, too much at once makes it runny.
03 -
- Use a tofu press or wrap the block in towels and weigh it down with a skillet for 10 minutes.
- Taste the sauce before tossing and adjust the sweetness or salt to your liking.
- Toss the tofu with sauce right before serving so it stays crispy longer.