Savory • Flavorful • Crispy Option • Easy
Servings: 2–4
Prep time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook time: 15–25 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
Tofu
- 1 block (14–16 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu
- 1–2 tsp cornstarch or arrowroot (optional, for crispiness)
Marinade
- ¼ cup soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or agave
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (or neutral oil)
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- ½ tsp chili flakes or sriracha (optional for spice)
🔪 Instructions
1. Press the tofu
- Remove tofu from packaging and drain.
- Wrap in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Place something heavy on top (like a skillet) for 15–20 minutes to remove excess water.
Pressing ensures the tofu absorbs maximum marinade.
2. Cube the tofu
- Cut the pressed tofu into ½–1 inch cubes or slabs, depending on preference.
3. Make the marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes.
4. Marinate the tofu
- Place tofu cubes in a shallow dish or resealable bag.
- Pour marinade over tofu, making sure all pieces are coated.
- Marinate at least 30 minutes, preferably 1–2 hours. Overnight works for maximum flavor.
5. Cook the tofu
You can choose your cooking method:
Pan-fry (crispy edges)
- Heat 1–2 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Lightly dust tofu with cornstarch (optional).
- Cook 3–5 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Bake
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Lightly toss tofu in cornstarch for crispiness (optional).
- Bake 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and slightly crispy.
Air Fry
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange tofu in a single layer.
- Cook 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy and caramelized.
6. Serve
- Add to grain bowls, salads, stir-fries, tacos, or sandwiches.
- Drizzle extra marinade or vegan sauce on top for more flavor.
🌟 Tips for Best Marinated Tofu
- Press thoroughly: the drier the tofu, the better it absorbs flavor.
- Cornstarch coating gives a crispy crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan if pan-frying—cook in batches for maximum crispiness.
- Use extra marinade as a dipping sauce or drizzle.
🍽 Flavor Variations
- Teriyaki Style: Add 1 tbsp hoisin sauce + 1 tsp sesame seeds to marinade.
- Spicy Korean: Add 1 tbsp gochujang and 1 tsp rice vinegar.
- Lemon Herb: Replace soy sauce with lemon juice + 1 tsp dried herbs.
- Maple-Sriracha: Double maple syrup and add 1–2 tsp sriracha for a sweet-spicy kick.
