Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Baked Tofu with Ginger Soy Marinade?
It is a plant-based protein dish featuring extra-firm tofu slices marinated in a blend of sesame oil, tamari, and spices, then baked until golden and crispy.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe, including tofu, tamari, and spices, are 100% plant-based and vegan.
Is this tofu recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is gluten-free because it uses tamari soy sauce instead of traditional soy sauce which often contains wheat.
What kind of tofu works best for this recipe?
Extra-firm tofu is recommended because it holds its shape well during slicing, marinating, and baking.
How long should I marinate the tofu?
You should marinate the tofu for at least 2-3 hours, though for the best flavor, leaving it overnight in the refrigerator is ideal.
What are the primary ingredients in the marinade?
The marinade consists of sesame oil, tamari soy sauce, paprika, sesame seeds, ground ginger, and garlic powder.
How should I slice the tofu?
The tofu should be sliced into uniform 1/4 inch thick slices to ensure even marination and consistent cooking.
What oven temperature is required?
Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) before baking the tofu.
How long does the tofu need to bake?
The tofu takes 20 minutes to bake in total.
Do I need to flip the tofu while it's in the oven?
Yes, you should flip the tofu slices halfway through the 20-minute baking time to ensure they brown evenly on both sides.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What is the calorie count for a serving of this tofu?
Each serving contains approximately 170 calories.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are 15 grams of protein per serving, making it a high-protein plant-based option.
Can I use regular soy sauce instead of tamari?
Yes, you can substitute soy sauce for tamari, but the dish will no longer be gluten-free.
What should I do before putting the tofu in the oven?
After marinating, remove the tofu and drain it well to allow any excess liquid to drip off before placing it on the baking sheet.
Do I need to use parchment paper?
Yes, lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents the tofu from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
How much fat is in this dish?
There are 11 grams of fat per serving, primarily coming from the sesame oil and tofu.
Are there carbohydrates in this recipe?
Each serving contains 4 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of fiber.
What flavors can I expect from this dish?
The dish features Asian-inspired flavors, specifically earthy sesame, salty tamari, and aromatic ginger and garlic.
How can I serve this baked tofu?
It is versatile and can be served in salads, grain bowls, stir-fries, or enjoyed as a standalone protein-packed snack.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. The tofu can be baked ahead of time, cooled, and stored for use in various meals throughout the week.
Does the recipe use fresh ginger?
This specific recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger for convenience and even distribution in the marinade.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, this recipe does not contain any added sugars.
Can I store the leftovers?
Yes, once cooled, you can store the baked tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several days.
What gives the tofu its golden color?
The combination of tamari, paprika, and the baking process helps create the golden, slightly crispy exterior.
How much garlic powder is used?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Is sesame oil necessary for this recipe?
Yes, sesame oil provides a significant portion of the flavor profile and helps the tofu achieve the desired texture during baking.
How much paprika is included?
The recipe calls for 3 teaspoons of paprika, which adds color and a subtle smokiness.
Can I eat this tofu cold?
Yes, baked tofu is delicious both warm out of the oven and cold as a snack or in a chilled salad.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to slice the 1 lb block of extra-firm tofu into 1/4 inch slices.