Spicy Crispy Baked Tofu Bites

Tofu, often heralded as a culinary chameleon, is a staple protein source that has won hearts in kitchens around the globe. Its ability to soak up flavors, coupled with its versatility, makes it an excellent choice for both seasoned plant-based eaters and those exploring new dietary paths. Whether you're a committed vegetarian, a curious omnivore, or simply someone looking to incorporate more plant-based dishes into your meals, tofu offers a wealth of opportunities for delicious cooking.

Discover the vibrant world of plant-based cooking with these Spicy Crispy Baked Tofu Bites! Packed with flavor and easy to make, this recipe transforms extra-firm tofu into a deliciously crispy snack or a great addition to salads and bowls. Learn how to marinate, coat, and bake tofu to achieve the perfect blend of spice and crunch. This nutritious dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports a healthy lifestyle. Perfect for any meal or occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

14 oz extra-firm tofu, drained, pressed, and cut into 1-inch cubes

3 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust based on your spice preference)

1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

2 teaspoons sesame oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for an extra kick)

¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

½ cup cornstarch or arrowroot powder (for coating)

2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which will help prevent the tofu bites from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Prepare the Tofu: Drain the tofu carefully and use a tofu press or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel to eliminate as much moisture as possible. Press for at least 15-20 minutes, then cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes, ideally around 1-inch each for uniform cooking.

Make the Marinade: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, sriracha, maple syrup, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth, cohesive marinade.

Marinate the Tofu: Gently add the cubed tofu to the marinade, stirring to ensure that every piece is thoroughly coated. Allow the tofu to marinate for a minimum of 15 minutes. For enhanced flavor absorption, consider refrigerating the marinated tofu for up to 2 hours.

Coat the Tofu: After the tofu has marinated, sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu cubes. Toss the tofu gently but thoroughly, ensuring that each piece is well-coated with cornstarch to achieve that addictive crunch.

Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Carefully lay the coated tofu bites out in a single layer on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil evenly over the tops of the tofu bites to promote golden crispiness.

Bake the Tofu: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the tofu for about 25-30 minutes. Be sure to flip the tofu halfway through the cooking time to ensure an even golden and crispy exterior. Keep a watchful eye, as baking times can vary depending on your oven's quirks.

Serve and Enjoy: Once the tofu bites are crispy and golden, take them out of the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve your spicy crispy baked tofu bites with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as sweet chili sauce or extra sriracha, making them perfect for snacking or as a delightful addition to any meal!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | Serves 4