How to Cook Tofu

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5 from 10 votes

Learn how to prep tofu and then cook it 3 ways - baked, air fried and pan fried

Prep Time10

Cook Time20

Total Time30

Course: dinner, Meal Preparation

Cuisine: Indian, Thai

Servings: 4

Calories: 100kcal

Wrap the block of Tofu with paper towels and gently press from all the sides to squeeze out excess water. Cut the tofu into 4 to 5 slices and then repeat step which will help remove the moisture. Cut each slice into 1 inch cubes. Gently press the cubed tofu with paper towels to remove any remaining moisture.
Place the tofu into a mixing bowl and toss in oil and soy sauce. Then sprinkle half of the cornstarch and gently toss or mix with a silicone spatula. Sprinkle remaining corn starch, salt & pepper over and gently stir in evenly coating the tofu with the cornstarch. See notes, if prepping tofu to be used in Indian dishes.

#1 Bake: Preheat the oven at 400 degrees F and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the tofu on a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 mins. Note: I always bake them for 15 to 20 mins without flipping them. But, for extra crispy, flip them after the first 15 to 20 mins and then bake for additional 15 mins.

#2 Air Fry: Spray the air fryer basket with oil or line with perforated parchment paper. Line the marinated tofu and air fry at 380 degrees for 15 to 20 mins. I do not flip them half way through but you may if you like

#3 Pan Fry: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non stick panLine the tofu in a single layer and cook on medium heat undisturbed for 5 mins. Then, carefully turn over with a flat silicone spatula and cook the other side for 5 mins. Note: It is important to not stir it so the tofu browns well and also does not break apart.

Notes:

If you are preparing tofu to use in Indian dishes, skip the soy sauce and instead add a teaspoon of lemon juice, and a teaspoon of ginger and garlic paste to the marinade. Spices such as turmeric, red chili powder and garam masala also can be sprinkled in the marinade
To make sweet & spicy tofu, whisk together 2 tablespoons of honey, 2 tablespoons of sriracha sauce and 2 garlic cloves minced. Toss in the cooked tofu and sprinkle over toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy as a side dish or serve with steamed jasmine rice for a quick meal

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