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Spicy Smoky Roasted Tofu

This dish features extra-firm tofu marinated in a bold blend of smoky paprika, cayenne, garlic, soy sauce, and maple syrup, then roasted until crispy and caramelized. The process involves pressing, marinating, and oven roasting to develop a crunchy exterior with a tender, flavorful interior. The final result is a vibrant, spicy dish with a smoky aroma and satisfying texture, perfect for serving over rice, in tacos, or in salads.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Fusion
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu press to remove excess moisture
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce low-sodium preferred
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to heat preference
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp sesame oil drizzle after roasting
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil for coating tofu

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Silicone brush
  • Mixing bowl
  • Kitchen tongs
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Drain the tofu, then wrap it in a clean towel and press gently with a heavy object for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they’re dry and ready for marinade.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, minced garlic, maple syrup, and sesame oil to create a flavorful marinade.
  4. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade, tossing gently to coat all sides. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes; longer if you have time for deeper flavor.
  5. Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  6. Using kitchen tongs, arrange the marinated tofu cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re not crowded to allow even crisping.
  7. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through, until the edges are deep amber and crispy, and the aroma is smoky and inviting.
  8. Once done, remove the tofu from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes; this helps it firm up and develop a satisfying crunch.
  9. Drizzle the roasted tofu with sesame oil for added aroma and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately with your favorite sides or in tacos, salads, or over rice.

Notes

For extra crispiness, marinate tofu longer or increase roasting time slightly. Adjust spice levels by adding more cayenne or chili flakes before roasting. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in a hot oven to restore crispness.