Kid Friendly Baked Tofu
The ultimate comfort food for families, this Kid Friendly Baked Tofu is crispy, savory, and packed with nutrients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it will satisfy both kids and parents alike. Try it tonight, and enjoy guilt-free deliciousness!
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 block Tofu Extra firm, prepared with nigari
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Ginger Ground
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Begin by placing a clean, absorbent dish towel on a plate. Take the tofu and drain it, then cut it into 2 to 3 large slabs. Lay the slabs on the towel, and drape a second towel on top of the tofu. Place a heavy cutting board on top to press the remaining liquid out. Let this rest for about 20 to 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it removes excess moisture and helps achieve that crispy texture.
- While the tofu is resting, preheat your oven to 400 F. If you’re using a convection oven, preheat it to 375 F. Preheating is important to ensure that your tofu cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden-brown finish.
- After pressing the tofu, cut it into even cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently to coat the cubes. Ensure each piece is well-covered, as this will help them crisp up in the oven.
- Next, sprinkle the cornstarch, ginger, garlic powder, and salt over the tofu. Toss gently again until all the cubes are thoroughly coated with the seasonings. This will add a burst of flavor and help create that delicious crust.
- Spread the seasoned tofu cubes evenly on a light-colored cookie sheet. A light sheet helps you monitor the browning of the tofu as it cooks. Make sure they are in a single layer for even cooking.
- Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake the tofu for 15 minutes. It’s important to keep an eye on them and not overcrowd the pan to ensure they cook properly.
- After 15 minutes, carefully turn the cubes over using tongs, ensuring they get crispy on all sides. Bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the tofu is crispy and golden-brown. You’ll know they’re done when they have that beautiful golden hue and a delightful crunch.
- Once baked, remove the tofu from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve the crispy tofu immediately alongside rice, noodles, or your favorite stir-fried veggies. It’s wonderful to enjoy right away!
Notes
- Tip 1: Leftover baked tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Tip 2: You can freeze uncooked and pressed tofu for later use. Just ensure to thaw it completely before cooking.
- Tip 3: This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, making it suitable for lunch or dinner.
- Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with different spices like chili powder or smoked paprika for a kick.
- Tip 5: Serve it over rice, toss it into a stir-fry, or add it to a grain bowl for a complete meal.