Crispy Herb-Infused Oven-Roasted Tofu
This Crispy Herb-Infused Oven-Roasted Tofu recipe transforms plain tofu into a flavorful and delightful dish that is both versatile and simple to prepare. Oven-roasting elevates the tofu's natural qualities, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, tender inside. Seasoned with a generous drizzle of high-quality olive oil, simple spices, and aromatic herbs from your pantry, this recipe makes a fantastic addition to any meal. Use it to enhance salads, grain bowls, or as a satisfying side dish. Better yet, it can be enjoyed as a standalone protein-packed snack. Get ready to impress your taste buds and elevate your meals with this easy-to-make tofu delight!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Extra firm tofu
1 lb (drained and pressed)
Olive oil
2 tablespoons (drizzled)
Kosher salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Coarse black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Granulated garlic
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Granulated onion
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Chili powder
1/2 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Begin by removing the tofu from its packaging, draining any excess liquid. To effectively press the tofu, place several layers of paper towels on a small baking sheet, then lay the tofu block on top. Cover the tofu with additional paper towels and weigh it down with a heavy cast iron skillet or a plate topped with some heavy cans. This will help extract excess moisture, ensuring optimal texture during roasting.
2
Allow the tofu to press at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving crispy tofu in the oven.
3
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting.
4
Once the tofu has been adequately pressed, remove the skillet (or weight) and discard the paper towels. Carefully slice the tofu into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
5
In the bowl, drizzle the tofu cubes with olive oil and evenly sprinkle kosher salt, coarse black pepper, granulated garlic, granulated onion, and chili powder. Gently toss the tofu to ensure each piece is well coated with the seasoning.
6
Transfer the seasoned tofu cubes to a greased baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer to promote even roasting.
7
Roast the tofu in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After this initial roasting period, remove the baking sheet and flip each tofu cube over for even cooking. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for an additional 15 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
8
Once roasted to perfection, remove the tofu from the oven and serve immediately. Enjoy it as a wholesome addition to your meal, whether in salads, grain bowls, or on its own!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main ingredient in this Crispy Herb-Infused Oven-Roasted Tofu recipe?
The main ingredient is 1 pound of extra firm tofu.
How long should I press the tofu before cooking?
The tofu should be pressed at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to achieve optimal crispiness.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C).
What is the total roasting time for the tofu?
The tofu roasts for a total of 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.
Is this tofu recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is gluten-free.
What size should I cut the tofu cubes?
The tofu block should be sliced into 1-inch cubes.
What kind of oil is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using 2 tablespoons of high-quality olive oil.
Which spices are used to season the tofu?
The tofu is seasoned with kosher salt, coarse black pepper, granulated garlic, granulated onion, and chili powder.
How do I ensure the tofu roasts evenly?
Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer on a greased baking sheet and flip them over after 15 minutes of roasting.
Can I use this tofu for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prep and can be added to various dishes throughout the week.
What are some serving suggestions for oven-roasted tofu?
You can serve it in salads, grain bowls, as a side dish, or as a protein-packed snack.
Do I need any special equipment to press the tofu?
No, you can simply use paper towels and a heavy object like a cast iron skillet or a plate with heavy cans.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 ingredients in total, including the tofu, oil, and spices.
What is the desired final texture of the tofu?
The goal is a crispy exterior with a soft and tender inside.
Should I grease the baking sheet?
Yes, use a greased baking sheet to prevent sticking and help the tofu brown.
What type of salt is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.
Does the recipe include any spicy ingredients?
It includes 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, which adds a mild kick.
How do I mix the seasoning with the tofu?
Place the cubes in a large bowl, drizzle with oil and spices, then gently toss to coat.
What color should the tofu be when finished?
The tofu should be roasted until it is golden brown and crispy.
Can this recipe be eaten as a standalone snack?
Yes, it is versatile enough to be enjoyed as a standalone protein-packed snack.
Why is the tofu drained before pressing?
Draining excess liquid from the packaging is the first step in moisture removal for a better roast.
What type of garlic is used?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of granulated garlic.
What type of onion is used?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of granulated onion.
Is the black pepper ground fine or coarse?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/2 teaspoon of coarse black pepper.
How much chili powder should I use?
Use 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder for seasoning.
Is it important to serve the tofu immediately?
Serving immediately is recommended to enjoy the best crispy texture.
Does this recipe use fresh or granulated onion?
This recipe uses granulated onion for even distribution.
Can I use firm tofu instead of extra firm?
While extra firm is ideal for roasting, firm tofu can be used if it is pressed very well to remove moisture.
What makes this recipe 'herb-infused'?
The tofu is infused with flavor through a blend of aromatic spices and herbs from the pantry like garlic and onion.