These crispy baked tofu sticks are a tasty treat! They’re golden on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Honestly, it’s hard to stop munching on these! I love dipping them in sauce; it makes them even better. Serve them with veggies for a fun meal everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu works best because it holds its shape when baked. If you’re looking for a soy-free option, try using chickpea tofu or tempeh instead.
Soy Sauce/Tamari: For gluten-free needs, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Coconut aminos is another great alternative for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Sesame Oil: This adds a nice nutty taste. If you don’t have it, a neutral oil like canola or sunflower works too. Just add a dash of roasted sesame seeds to mimic the flavor.
Nutritional Yeast: This is optional, but it gives a cheesy flavor. If you’re out, you can skip it or use grated Parmesan for a non-vegan version.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Tofu for Baking?
Getting the tofu ready is key to achieving that crispy texture. Start by draining and pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. This allows the flavors to penetrate better and prevents sogginess.
- Wrap the drained tofu in a clean towel.
- Place a heavy object on top for 15-30 minutes.
- Once pressed, cut the tofu into even sticks for consistent cooking.
Marinating the tofu is also important. The marinade adds flavor and helps the coating stick. Toss the tofu gently but ensure each piece is well-coated before baking!
How to Make Crispy Baked Tofu Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 14 oz (400 g) firm or extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional, for added flavor)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or a little oil for baking sheet
For the Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- Water to thin as needed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to bake. If you include marinating time, plan for at least 45 minutes in total. The result is crunchy tofu sticks ready to be enjoyed!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Tofu:
Start by draining the tofu. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place something heavy on top to remove excess moisture. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes until it feels firm.
2. Cutting the Tofu:
Once drained, cut the tofu into stick shapes that are about ½ inch thick and 3-4 inches long. This helps them cook evenly and become crispy!
3. Marinating:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Gently add the tofu sticks to the bowl and toss them carefully to coat. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes for extra flavor.
4. Coating the Tofu:
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and nutritional yeast, if you’re using it. Sprinkle this mixture over the marinated tofu, tossing it gently until all sticks are evenly coated.
5. Prep the Baking Sheet:
Now, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
6. Arranging the Tofu:
Place the coated tofu sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not touching to ensure they get crispy. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the tofu sticks for extra crunch and flavor.
7. Baking:
Bake the tofu sticks in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even crispiness. They should look golden and crispy when they’re done.
8. Dipping Sauce (Optional):
While your tofu bakes, prepare the dipping sauce if you’re using it. In a bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, and rice vinegar. Add water a little at a time until you reach your desired dipping consistency.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the tofu sticks are ready, remove them from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve hot with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful baked tofu sticks as a delicious snack or part of a meal!
FAQ for Crispy Baked Tofu Sticks
Can I Use Different Types of Tofu?
Yes! Firm or extra-firm tofu is best for this recipe as it holds its shape well during baking. However, if you’re looking for a soy-free alternative, chickpea tofu or tempeh can work too, though the texture and taste will differ slightly.
How Can I Store Leftover Tofu Sticks?
Store any leftover tofu sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
What If I Don’t Have Sesame Oil?
No problem! You can substitute sesame oil with a neutral oil like canola or sunflower. For a hint of nuttiness, add a tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds to the coating mixture.
Can I Make These Tofu Sticks Spicier?
Absolutely! You can add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick. Just adjust the amount according to your heat preference!
