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Easy Baked Tofu

  • dinnadavisca
  • 6 minutes ago
  • 2 min read



Easy baked tofu is a wonderful addition to a Mahjong table — simple, satisfying, and quietly grounding. Its crisp edges and savory depth offer steady nourishment without heaviness, making it easy to enjoy between hands while staying present and focused. Like Mahjong itself, it rewards patience and balance, and is best shared slowly among friends as the game unfolds.


Ingredients

  • 1 (15-oz) block extra-firm tofu ★

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce ★★

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon liquid smoke

  • ½ teaspoon Sriracha (optional)

  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

  • ¼ cup cornstarch (or arrowroot starch)


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Cut the tofu into ¾-inch cubes. (Slice the tofu in half lengthwise into two large rectangles first, then cube.)

  3. Place tofu on a clean dish towel and gently pat dry with a second towel to remove excess moisture.

  4. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, liquid smoke, Sriracha, and salt.

  5. Add the tofu cubes and gently toss with a spatula until evenly coated.

  6. Sprinkle in the cornstarch and gently toss again until all cubes are coated.

  7. Spread the tofu in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

  8. Bake for 30–35 minutes, without stirring, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

  9. Let cool for 3–5 minutes before serving.


Notes & Tips

  • ★ Extra-firm tofu is essential for this recipe. Firm or soft tofu will not crisp properly.

  • ★★ For a simpler flavor profile, use 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder instead of the soy sauce, liquid smoke, and Sriracha.

  • Make ahead: Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days. The tofu will soften and mellow in saltiness over time.

  • To re-crisp: Place tofu on a baking sheet, sprinkle lightly with salt, and bake at 350°F for 5 minutes until warmed and crispy.

  • Doubling the recipe: Use 3 tablespoons each olive oil and soy sauce with 2 (15-oz) blocks tofu. Increase bake time by 5–10 minutes, until crispy.


Serves 4

 
 
 

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