Easy Crispy Tofu (2024)

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Learn how to make perfect crispy tofu in a few simple steps! It’s easy to prepare, requires just a few ingredients, and can be oven-baked or made in the air fryer.

Tofu 101

We are self-proclaimed tofu lovers, and thiseasy tofu recipeis up there as one of our favorites. It’s delicious, versatile, and most importantly, EASY for beginners. We have 100+ sweet and savory tofu recipes on the blog, but this recipe is the perfect place to start. It’s the perfect simple, go-to recipe that you can use to makeHigh-Protein Salads, stir fry recipes, breakfast bowls, and more.

Get ready to learn how easy it is to make the best ever crispy tofu recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Extra-firm tofu:Using the right type of tofu is imperative to making the best crispy tofu. In our extensive recipe testing, extra firm tofu or super firm tofu are best.
• Tamari:Adds a savory umami flavor. If you’re not gluten-free, soy sauce can be used as an alternative.
• Sriracha:Brings a touch of heat and depth to the tofu. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
• Olive oil:Helps to coat the tofu and promote crispiness during baking or air frying. Any neutral oil can be used as a substitute.
• Garlic powder:Adds a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the tofu.
• Cornstarch:The key to achieving a crispy exterior. Arrowroot starch can work as a similar substitute, but it is not as crispy as cornstarch.

Equipment Needed

• Heavy object for pressing tofu or tofu press
• Stasher bag or airtight container
• Baking sheet or air fryer
• Silicone baking mat (optional, but recommended)

How to Make Crispy Tofu

1. Press your tofu!If you’ve ever felt like your tofu was mushy or bland, chances are it wasn’t pressed properly. In order for the tofu to absorb your marinade and become chewy, it’s important to press it first. For the best results, we recommend pressing your tofu for 45 minutes to 1 hour before marinating. If you have never pressed tofu before, watch our 1 minute tutorial onHow to Press Tofu without a Tofu Press.
2. Make the marinade.In a medium-sized sealable bag (like a stasher bag) or airtight container, add the tamari, sriracha, olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until uniform.
3. Coat the tofu. Cut the pressed block of tofu into cubes or thick slices, then add it to the bag or container with the marinade. Give it a good shake to fully coat the tofu.
4. Add cornstarch.Open the bag or container and evenly sprinkle over the cornstarch. Seal once more and shake to fully coat the tofu with cornstarch.
5. Prepare for baking.Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with a silicone mat. Evenly distribute the tofu cubes or tofu slices onto the baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake the tofu.Place the baking sheet into the oven and bake the tofu cubes for 35-45 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown, crispy perfection. The longer it bakes, the crispier the tofu will get. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving (the longer it cools, the crispier it will become!).
7. Serve.Enjoy as desired.

Air Fryer TofuOption

Want crispier tofu in less time?! Try this easy air fryer method. Arrange the tofu in a single layer in the basket of your air fryer and air fry at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes, tossing halfway through.

Try this method to make ourCrispy Air Fryer Herbed Tofu, too!

Serving Suggestions

This tofu recipe is one of our favorites because you can pair crispy tofu pieces with virtually any dish, breakfast included!

We love it in noodle dishes, like thisVegetable Yakisoba,Vegetable Stir Fries,Chili Crisp Garlic Noodles, andThai Red Curry Noodle Soup. You can even use it in ourVegan Lo Meinin place of the “beef.”

It’s also great as a filling forvegan tacos, rice dishes likeVegan Fried Rice, and JapaneseSushi Rolls.

Finally, it’s an amazing addition tobuddha bowls,sandwiches,wraps,breakfast burritos,huevos rancheros,salads, and virtually any dish that need a protein boost.

You can even eat it alone dunked in ahomemade dip or sauce. Crispy baked tofu is really as versatile as it gets!

Recipe FAQs

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This tofu will be crispiest when enjoyed fresh, but leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

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Nutrition facts label provided by Nutri Fox.

Disclaimer:The nutritional information shown is an estimate provided by an online calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional’s advice.This page may containaffiliatelinks, which simply means that we earn a commission if you purchase through those links, but your price remains the same. Thank you for supporting Sweet Simple Vegan!