Marinated Tofu (The Best Tofu Ever!)

This Marinated Tofu recipe is a game-changer for tofu lovers. The tofu absorbs a flavorful, savory marinade that makes it incredibly delicious. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and can be used in a variety of dishes—from stir-fries to salads or simply served on its own. The secret to this tofu’s amazing flavor is the marinade, packed with umami-rich ingredients that transform tofu into a mouthwatering treat.

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Marinated Tofu:

1 block firm tofu (14 oz)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon sesame oil (or olive oil)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 tablespoon maple syrup (or agave syrup)
1 tablespoon sriracha (optional, for spice)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon lemon juice (or lime juice)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)

Instructions

1. Press the Tofu

Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. You can do this by wrapping the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object (like a cast iron skillet) on top. Let it press for at least 10-15 minutes.
Once pressed, cut the tofu into cubes, slices, or strips, depending on your preference and how you plan to use it.

2. Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sriracha (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and lemon juice. Stir until the marinade is well-combined.

3. Marinate the Tofu

Place the tofu pieces in a shallow dish or a resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the tofu, making sure all the pieces are coated evenly.
Let the tofu marinate for at least 15-30 minutes. For best results, marinate for 1-2 hours or overnight in the fridge. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

4. Optional: Coat with Cornstarch for Crispiness

If you want extra crispy tofu, after marinating, toss the tofu in a little cornstarch before cooking. This will give the tofu a crispy, golden exterior when baked or pan-fried.

5. Cook the Tofu

Pan-Fry: Heat a little oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated tofu and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Be sure to flip carefully to avoid breaking the tofu.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the marinated tofu in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is crispy and golden.

6. Serve

Serve the Marinated Tofu with rice, noodles, in a salad, or in wraps. It’s also great on its own as a snack or appetizer. Garnish with sesame seeds, fresh herbs, or green onions for added flavor.

Tips:

Customize the Marinade: Feel free to experiment with different marinades! You can add flavors like miso, hoisin sauce, or peanut butter to create a unique twist.
Crispier Tofu: For extra crispiness, press the tofu for longer, coat it in cornstarch, and bake instead of pan-frying. You can also air-fry it for a healthier, oil-free option.
Storage: Leftover marinated tofu can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, and it tastes great cold in salads or wraps.

This Marinated Tofu recipe is one of the best ways to enjoy tofu! The savory, umami-rich marinade penetrates deeply into the tofu, making it flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re a tofu lover or a newcomer, this recipe is sure to impress!