Crispy Golden Baked Tofu
This Crispy Golden Baked Tofu is full of savory, irresistible flavor and oven-baked to perfection—no deep frying required! This crispy golden tofu has versatile flavor, a perfect protein-packed topping on a grain bowl, salad, pasta, or even pizza!
Servings: 4 servings
Equipment
- Oven (air fryer or stovetop can also be used, see notes below)
Ingredients
- 16 oz extra firm or firm tofu
- drizzle of oil (optional)
- 2 tsp nutritional yeast
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp turmeric powder
- ¼ tsp paprika powder
- ½ tsp salt
- several grinds of black pepper
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 350°. For air fryer or pan frying, see notes below.
- Press tofu for 15-30 minutes either by wrapping in a clean kitchen towel and placing something weighted on top or by using a tofu press.
- Cut tofu into cubes (or rectangles or triangles) making sure the size is consistent. Place tofu into a large bowl. Option to toss tofu with a drizzle of oil if desired.
- Measure out all the spices into a small bowl and mix together. Sprinkle spice mixture over tofu, gently stirring tofu to evenly coat.
- Place tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake on the middle rack for about 20 minutes. Flip tofu after 12-15 minutes. Once tofu is crispy golden brown, remove from oven.
Notes
Stovetop: Heat a lightly-oiled medium-sized skillet (I prefer non-stick) on medium-high heat. Once hot, add tofu and let cook untouched on the first side for several minutes, until browned. Then carefully flip tofu occasionally, until all sides are golden brown, about 10-15 minutes.
Air fryer: Pre-heat air fryer with the air fryer pre-set or the "bake" setting at 350°. Add tofu to basket or parchment lined tray and cook until golden brown, checking often to make sure it doesn't overcook. Depending on your air fryer, this tofu will cook anywhere from 8-20 minutes, so check frequently!