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Spicy Roasted Crispy Tofu

This dish features firm tofu marinated in a spicy chili and soy sauce mixture, then roasted until golden and crackly on the edges. The high heat and patience in roasting develop a smoky aroma and a satisfying crunch, making it perfect for salads, bowls, or snacks with a tender interior contrasting its crispy exterior.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 block firm or extra-firm tofu pressed and drained
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
  • 2 tablespoons chili paste adjust for heat preference
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil for flavor and browning
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone mat
  • Spatula
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Start by pressing the tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture, which helps it crisp up in the oven. Once pressed, cut it into 1-inch cubes or slabs, depending on your preference.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili paste, minced garlic, sesame oil, and honey until well combined. This spicy marinade will infuse the tofu with flavor.
  3. Add the tofu pieces to the marinade, tossing gently to coat each piece thoroughly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer if you have time, to absorb more flavor.
  4. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
  5. Arrange the marinated tofu pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they aren’t crowded. Reserve any remaining marinade for basting later.
  6. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the tofu for 15 minutes. Then, flip each piece with a spatula to ensure even crisping, and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes until the edges are deeply golden and slightly charred for that crackly texture.
  7. During the last few minutes, you can brush the remaining marinade over the tofu for extra flavor and glaze. Keep an eye on the edges—they should turn a rich, golden brown.
  8. Remove the tofu from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the crispiness to set and the flavors to deepen.
  9. Serve the crispy roasted tofu hot, garnished with chopped scallions, cilantro, or a squeeze of lemon if desired. Enjoy the smoky, spicy layers with their irresistible crunch!

Notes

For extra crispiness, broil for 2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning. Pressing the tofu thoroughly and roasting at high heat are key to achieving that perfect crackly exterior.