Crispy Baked Tofu with Creamy Peanut Sauce: Your Ultimate Vegan Weeknight Meal
Discover the ultimate plant-based delight with this incredible baked tofu with peanut sauce. This recipe transforms humble extra-firm tofu into a truly satisfying dish, baked until wonderfully crispy, then generously coated in a luscious, creamy, and irresistibly savory peanut butter sauce. It’s a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and spicy notes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling nourished and content.
Whether you’re a seasoned tofu enthusiast or new to cooking with this versatile plant-based protein, this recipe is designed for success. We’ve laid out simple, clear steps to ensure you achieve the crispiest tofu and the most flavorful sauce, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. Prepare to be amazed at how easily you can create a restaurant-quality vegan meal right in your own kitchen.
The secret to exceptional baked tofu begins with proper preparation. First, we’ll guide you through pressing the tofu to remove excess water, a crucial step for achieving that coveted firm texture. Once pressed, the tofu is diced into convenient, bite-sized pieces and marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, olive oil, and garlic powder, infusing it with flavor from within. A light coating of corn starch then ensures that each piece bakes to golden brown, crispy perfection in the oven.
While the tofu bakes, your kitchen will fill with the enticing aroma of the star of this dish: the tangy peanut sauce. Crafted from creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, a touch of brown sugar, and a kick of sriracha, this sauce is a flavor powerhouse. Its balance of salty, sweet, sour, and spicy notes makes it incredibly versatile. Beyond this baked tofu, this delicious peanut sauce can elevate countless other dishes – think chicken skewers, tempeh bowls, fresh tofu spring rolls, and so much more. Don’t hesitate to bookmark this recipe for the sauce alone!
Serving this baked tofu with peanut sauce offers endless possibilities for customization. It’s fantastic over a comforting bed of white rice, wholesome brown rice, fragrant Jasmine rice, or delicate rice noodles. To boost your vegetable intake and create a complete meal, pair it with steamed veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or asparagus. For a vibrant and hearty stir-fry experience, easily incorporate your favorite stir-fry vegetables such as crisp bell peppers, tender green beans, leafy bok choy, or sweet onions. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a versatile foundation for delicious, healthy eating.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe: Delicious Baked Tofu Highlights
- Comfort Food at its Best: This recipe delivers on all fronts: it’s incredibly tasty, deeply comforting, reliably delicious, and surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself craving and making again and again, perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying family dinner.
- Simple, Accessible Ingredients: Forget specialty stores! All the ingredients required for this baked tofu and peanut sauce are common pantry staples readily available at any local grocery store. This makes it a convenient and stress-free option for any home cook looking for a delicious meal without a complicated shopping list.
- Perfectly Vegan & Plant-Based: Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this a fantastic option for anyone following a vegan or vegetarian diet, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their routine. The creamy peanut sauce is also entirely vegan, ensuring a wholesome and ethical dining experience.
- Crispy Texture Guaranteed: With our detailed instructions for pressing and coating the tofu, you’ll achieve that sought-after crispy exterior that makes baked tofu truly irresistible. No more soggy tofu – just perfectly golden, firm pieces that hold up beautifully to the rich peanut sauce.
- Versatile and Customizable: This dish is incredibly flexible. Serve it over rice, noodles, or a medley of vegetables. Adjust the spice level of the peanut sauce to your preference, or add your favorite toppings. It’s a recipe that easily adapts to your taste and what you have on hand.
Ingredients for Crispy Tofu & Creamy Peanut Sauce
Tofu Ingredients
- Tofu: For the best crispy texture, we highly recommend using extra-firm or super-firm tofu. The key is to press the tofu thoroughly (detailed instructions below) to remove as much excess liquid as possible. This process enhances its firmness and allows it to absorb flavors more effectively, resulting in a much more satisfying bite when cubed into small, uniform pieces.
- Soy Sauce: This essential condiment acts as a base for both the tofu marinade and the peanut sauce, imparting a crucial salty and umami-rich flavor that is characteristic of many Asian-inspired dishes. For a gluten-free option, use tamari.
- Olive Oil: Used in the marinade, olive oil not only helps to tenderize the tofu but also plays a vital role in achieving a beautifully golden and crispy exterior during the baking process. Its mild flavor complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.
- Garlic Powder: A convenient way to add a subtle yet distinct hint of garlic flavor to the tofu marinade. Garlic powder distributes evenly and adheres well, ensuring every piece of tofu is infused with aromatic goodness.
- Corn Starch: This is your secret weapon for super crispy tofu! When coated with corn starch, the tofu develops a thin, crispy crust in the oven, preventing it from sticking and giving it an irresistible crunch.
Peanut Sauce Ingredients
- Peanut Butter: The heart and soul of our sauce! Creamy peanut butter provides the rich, nutty base that makes this sauce so satisfying. Opt for a smooth, natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for the best flavor and texture.
- Soy Sauce: Again, soy sauce brings its signature salty and savory depth, balancing the sweetness and tang in the peanut sauce and tying all the flavors together.
- Rice Vinegar: Brewed from rice, this vinegar has a wonderfully mild and slightly sweet flavor. It provides a crucial acidic component to the sauce, cutting through the richness of the peanut butter and adding a bright, tangy finish, often found in authentic Asian and sushi dishes.
- Brown Sugar: Made from white sugar and molasses, brown sugar introduces a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the sauce. It’s essential for balancing the salty and spicy notes, creating a well-rounded and deeply flavored profile. Ensure it’s packed tightly for accurate measurement.
- Sriracha: For those who love a bit of heat, sriracha is a spicy chili sauce made from chili peppers, garlic, vinegar, sugar, and salt. It adds a vibrant kick and a layer of complexity to the peanut sauce. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.
- Water: This simple ingredient is used to thin the peanut sauce, achieving the perfect consistency for coating the baked tofu evenly and smoothly. It helps create a pourable, yet rich, sauce.
For precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card below.
How to Press Tofu for Optimal Crispiness
Pressing tofu is a fundamental step often overlooked by beginners, but it’s absolutely vital for achieving that desirable firm and crispy texture. Tofu, especially extra-firm, comes packed in water, and removing this excess moisture is key to preventing soggy results and allowing the tofu to absorb marinades more effectively. Here’s a simple, effective method:
- Prepare the Tofu: Begin by carefully opening the package of tofu and draining off all the liquid. Place the block of tofu on a clean plate or a sturdy cutting board.
- Wrap and Weight: Cover the tofu block with several layers of clean kitchen towels or robust paper towels. This will absorb the moisture as it’s pressed out.
- Apply Pressure: Place another plate, cutting board, or a dedicated tofu press on top of the paper towel-covered tofu. To apply gentle, even pressure, you can use heavy cans (like diced tomatoes or beans), a stack of books, or any other weighted objects you have available. If you have a dedicated tofu press, follow its instructions.
- Press for Success: Allow the tofu to press for at least 10 minutes. For even crispier results and better flavor absorption, you can press it for 30 minutes to an hour, changing the paper towels if they become saturated. This process forces out the water, making the tofu firmer and ready to soak up all the delicious flavors of your marinade.
- Ready to Use: After pressing, discard the wet paper towels and cut the tofu into your desired shapes – cubes work perfectly for this baked tofu recipe.
Note: Super firm tofu that is vacuum-packed typically contains very little water and often does not require pressing. In this case, simply pat the outside of the tofu block dry with a clean towel and proceed with the recipe as desired.
Bonus Tofu Tip: Freeze for a “Meaty” Texture! For an even more unique and satisfying texture, similar to meat, try freezing your tofu. Simply place the entire tofu block (in its original packaging) into the freezer overnight. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator. Once thawed, drain the liquid, and you’ll notice the tofu has become more porous and sponge-like. This change in texture not only makes it easier to drain (a few gentle squeezes are often enough, no heavy pressing required!) but also allows it to absorb marinades even better, resulting in a delightfully chewy and “meaty” consistency that’s less crumbly.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce
Get ready to create a truly delicious and satisfying vegan meal. Follow these easy steps to prepare your crispy baked tofu and a rich, creamy peanut sauce.
Preheat your oven to a steady 400ºF (200ºC) and prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a reusable silicone baking mat. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
In a spacious medium mixing bowl, combine the pressed and cubed tofu (refer to the “How to Press Tofu” section for best results) with the soy sauce, olive oil, and garlic powder. Gently toss the tofu until every piece is well-coated. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 10 minutes to soak up those delicious flavors. After marinating, carefully drain any excess liquid from the bowl.
Evenly sprinkle the corn starch over the marinated tofu in the bowl. Toss the tofu gently but thoroughly, using your hands or a spoon, to ensure every piece is uniformly coated. This corn starch layer is key to achieving a crispy texture when baked.
Carefully transfer the corn starch-coated tofu onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring the pieces are spread out in a single layer without overcrowding. This allows for even air circulation and optimal crisping. Bake the tofu for 20 minutes, flipping each piece over about halfway through (at the 10-minute mark) to ensure all sides get golden and crispy.
While the tofu is in the oven, it’s time to prepare our delectable peanut sauce. Place the creamy peanut butter in a microwave-safe dish and microwave it for 20 to 30 seconds. This step slightly softens the peanut butter, making it much easier to mix into a smooth, lump-free sauce.
To the softened peanut butter, add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, brown sugar, and water. Vigorously whisk all the ingredients together until the sauce is completely smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed – you might want more sriracha for extra heat or a touch more brown sugar for added sweetness.
Once the initial 20-minute baking period for the tofu is complete, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a basting brush, generously coat one side of the tofu pieces with half of your freshly prepared peanut sauce. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Then, flip the tofu pieces over, coat the other side with the remaining sauce, and bake for a final 5 minutes. This two-stage saucing ensures every piece is thoroughly coated and caramelized.
After the final bake, your crispy, saucy tofu is ready to be served! Enhance its flavor and texture by adding optional toppings such as freshly chopped green onions for a bright, herbaceous note and crunchy chopped peanuts for added texture. Serve this delightful dish immediately over a bed of warm rice, your favorite noodles, or a medley of steamed or stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Enhance Your Dish: Delicious Topping Ideas
Elevate the flavor and presentation of your baked tofu with these delightful topping suggestions. They add not just visual appeal but also a burst of fresh flavor and satisfying crunch.
- Fresh Green Onions: Finely sliced green onions provide a fresh, mild oniony flavor and a vibrant pop of color, contrasting beautifully with the rich sauce.
- Chopped Peanuts: For an extra layer of nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch, a sprinkle of roughly chopped roasted peanuts is a fantastic addition.
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you crave more heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes offers an immediate spicy kick and a visual indicator of its fiery nature.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: A light sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds (white or black) adds a subtle nutty aroma and an elegant finish. They also contribute a delicate texture.
- Fresh Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro can add a bright, herbaceous note that complements the rich peanut flavors beautifully.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving brightens the entire dish, adding a zesty tang that cuts through the richness of the peanut sauce.
Flexible Options: Ingredient Substitutions for Your Tofu Dish
Life happens, and sometimes you don’t have every ingredient on hand. Or perhaps you have dietary preferences! This recipe is quite forgiving, and many components can be easily substituted without compromising on flavor. Here are some excellent alternatives:
- Tofu Alternatives: While super-firm, extra-firm, and firm tofu are ideal for achieving a crispy texture, you can certainly experiment with other proteins. This peanut sauce pairs wonderfully with pan-fried or baked tempeh for a chewier texture, seitan for a meatier bite, or even chicken or shrimp for non-vegan options. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Soy Sauce Substitutions: If you’re looking for gluten-free options, tamari is a fantastic 1:1 substitute. For a soy-free alternative, coconut aminos provide a similar savory depth with a hint of sweetness. Teriyaki sauce can also work in a pinch, though it will add more sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile to both the marinade and sauce.
- Olive Oil Swaps: Any neutral-flavored oil will work for baking the tofu. Good alternatives include avocado oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil. For an added layer of nutty flavor, a small amount of toasted sesame oil can be used in the marinade, but be mindful of its strong flavor.
- Garlic Powder Alternatives: If you don’t have garlic powder, onion powder can offer a similar savory allium flavor. A salt-free seasoning blend that includes garlic and onion can also be used. For fresh garlic, use 1-2 cloves minced and add to the marinade.
- Corn Starch Replacements: Other starches can achieve a similar crispy coating. Excellent substitutes include arrowroot powder, tapioca starch, or potato starch, all of which will help the tofu crisp up beautifully.
- Rice Vinegar Options: If rice vinegar isn’t available, apple cider vinegar can be a good substitute, offering a similar tang, though it might have a slightly fruitier note. White wine vinegar could also work in a pinch.
- Brown Sugar Replacements: For a different kind of sweetness, pure maple syrup can be substituted 1:1 for brown sugar, adding a distinct earthy sweetness. Agave nectar is another good option for a liquid sweetener.
- Sriracha Alternatives: Personalize the heat level! Use your favorite hot sauce like sambal oelek, chili garlic sauce, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a similar spicy kick. If you prefer no heat at all, simply omit the sriracha completely.
Creative Variations for Your Peanut Tofu
This baked tofu with peanut sauce recipe is delicious as is, but it’s also a fantastic canvas for culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste or incorporate other ingredients you love!
- Hearty Tofu Stir-Fry: Instead of simply serving the tofu over rice and veggies, turn it into a full-fledged stir-fry. Sauté your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli florets, carrots, snap peas, and onions in a large pan or wok until tender-crisp. Add the baked tofu and the entire batch of peanut sauce, tossing to coat everything thoroughly. This tofu stir fry with peanut sauce is a truly satisfying meal.
- No Heat / Mild: The sriracha in the original recipe adds a pleasant touch of spicy warmth. If you or your family prefer a milder dish or are sensitive to heat, simply omit the sriracha from the peanut sauce recipe. The sauce will still be incredibly flavorful with its sweet, savory, and tangy notes.
- Extra Spicy Kick: For those who crave more heat, don’t hold back! You can easily increase the amount of sriracha in the peanut sauce to your desired level. Alternatively, consider adding a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce for an extra layer of spice and flavor. As a topping, a generous sprinkle of red pepper flakes delivers an immediate and noticeable heat boost.
- Air Fryer Tofu: For an even crispier and quicker cooking method, prepare the tofu as directed (pressed, marinated, and coated in corn starch), then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy. Then toss with the prepared peanut sauce.
- Add Ginger: For an extra layer of aromatic flavor in your peanut sauce, add ½ to 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger to the sauce ingredients before whisking. It pairs wonderfully with peanut butter and soy sauce.
- Citrus Brightness: A squeeze of fresh lime juice (about 1-2 teaspoons) can be added to the finished peanut sauce for a bright, zesty kick that enhances all the other flavors.
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
Having the right tools can make all the difference in the kitchen. Here’s a list of the equipment you’ll need to prepare this delicious baked tofu with peanut sauce efficiently:
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy, rimmed baking sheet is essential for baking the tofu evenly and containing any drips or crumbs.
- Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper is a game-changer. It prevents sticking, aids in flipping the tofu, and makes cleanup a breeze. Alternatively, a reusable silicone baking mat works just as well.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two: one for marinating the tofu and tossing it with corn starch, and a separate one for whisking together the creamy peanut sauce ingredients.
- Whisk: A good whisk is essential for blending the peanut sauce ingredients thoroughly until it reaches a perfectly smooth and creamy consistency.
- Basting Brush: A silicone basting brush makes it easy to evenly coat the tofu with the peanut sauce during the baking process, ensuring every piece is richly flavored.
- Tofu Press (Optional): While not strictly necessary (you can use weights as described above), a dedicated tofu press can make the pressing process more efficient and mess-free.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips for Peanut Tofu
Planning ahead or managing leftovers is easy with this baked tofu and peanut sauce recipe. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy your delicious meal for days to come.
To store leftover peanut tofu, first allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat the tofu gently in the microwave or in a pan on the stovetop until warmed through. Alternatively, this tofu is surprisingly delicious enjoyed cold, making it a fantastic option for packed lunches or quick snacks.
The delicious peanut sauce can also be prepared in advance. Store it separately in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. It can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months. If frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and whisk well before using, adding a touch of water if needed to reach your desired consistency. However, we do not recommend freezing the complete dish (tofu coated in sauce) as the tofu’s texture can become somewhat dry and rubbery upon thawing and reheating, and the sauce may separate. For the best experience, always keep the sauce and tofu separate until ready to serve, or combine them fresh after thawing the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Tofu and Peanut Sauce
Achieving restaurant-quality crispy baked tofu involves a few key tricks. First and foremost, you must press the tofu to remove excess moisture; this is critical for preventing sogginess. Second, coating the pressed tofu thoroughly in corn starch before baking or frying creates a dry surface that becomes incredibly crispy. Finally, using a high oven temperature (like 400ºF/200ºC) or high heat when pan-frying ensures the edges brown and crisp up beautifully, giving you that perfect crunch.
Yes, you absolutely can freeze tofu in its original packaging. Freezing tofu is actually a clever technique that changes its texture, making it firmer, chewier, and more porous. This “meatier” texture allows it to absorb marinades even better once thawed. Simply place the entire unopened package directly into the freezer. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator, then drain and prepare as usual.
Yes, baked tofu is an incredibly healthy option! Tofu is a great source of plant-based protein, iron, and calcium, and it’s naturally low in calories and fat. Baking it, as opposed to deep-frying, significantly reduces the fat content while still achieving a delicious texture. When paired with a wholesome peanut sauce (made with natural peanut butter) and plenty of vegetables, it becomes a well-balanced and nutritious meal.
Absolutely! The peanut sauce is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare it up to 5-7 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before serving, give it a good whisk, and if it’s too thick, add a teaspoon or two of water to reach your desired consistency. This saves time on busy weeknights!
This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Common choices include steamed white rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice. For a noodle-based meal, consider rice noodles or even ramen. To add more nutrients and freshness, serve it alongside steamed broccoli, sautéed bell peppers, green beans, bok choy, or a fresh, crisp salad. It’s also excellent as a filling for lettuce wraps!
More Comforting Vegan & Vegetarian Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this satisfying baked tofu with peanut sauce, you’ll surely love exploring other comforting vegetarian and vegan recipes. Here are some more delicious plant-based options to inspire your next meal:
- Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce
- Chickpea Curry with Coconut Milk and Spinach
- Mushroom Lentil Bolognese
- Instant Pot White Bean Soup
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Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce
Equipment
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Baking sheet
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Parchment paper
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Basting brush
Ingredients
Tofu
- 14 ounces extra firm tofu pressed and cubed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons corn starch
Peanut Sauce
- 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar packed
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400ºF (200ºC) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
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In a medium mixing bowl, toss the pressed and cubed tofu (see notes) in the soy sauce, olive oil, and garlic powder. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 10 minutes, then drain the excess liquid.
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Sprinkle the corn starch over the tofu, tossing as needed to coat evenly. Transfer the tofu to the lined baking sheet, spreading into a single layer. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping over about halfway through.
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While the tofu bakes, microwave the peanut butter in a microwave-safe dish for 20 to 30 seconds. Then add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, brown sugar, and water, whisking until smooth.
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When the 20-minute bake is complete, brush the tofu with half of the sauce and return to the oven to bake for an additional 5 minutes. Then flip the tofu, coat the other side with the remaining sauce, and bake for a final 5 minutes.
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Add toppings (optional) such as green onions and chopped peanuts and serve over rice, noodles, or veggies.
Video
Notes
How to press tofu: Drain the liquid from the tofu packaging. Cover the tofu block in paper towels and place on a cutting board. Place another cutting board or a plate on top of the tofu and carefully use a weighted object to apply gentle pressure. Press for at least 10 minutes.
Nutrition