Baked Spiced Tofu (Oil-Free)

Name: Baked Spiced Tofu
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 14 Ounce Block Extra Firm Tofu; 2 Tablespoon Soy Sauce, Tamari, or Liquid Aminos; 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder; 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 Teaspoon Turmeric; 1 Teaspoon Cumin; 1 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika; 1/2 Teaspoon Chili Powder

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Baked spiced tofu is crunchy, crispy, firm, and flavorful. It's a great recipe to whip out when you want to add protein to your meal.

Let's talk about tofu.

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What is tofu?
What are the benefits of eating tofu?
Ingredient Notes
Spice combinations for tofu
How to make Baked Spiced Tofu
Frequently Asked Questions
Serving suggestions
Recipe Prayer
Related Recipes
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What is tofu?

Tofu is maid of soybeans. Specifically, curds of soymilk are pressed into blocks of varying firmness.

Tofu blocks range from silken (very loose) to extra firm. Different consistencies of tofu are used for different recipes, depending on the desired outcome.

For this baked spiced tofu, I used a block of extra firm tofu, because I knew I wanted a denser texture.

What are the benefits of eating tofu?

When you eat tofu, you get all the nutrients in soybeans. Tofu is filled with plant-protein, fiber, iron, calcium, manganese, selenium, magnesium, copper, zinc, vitamin B1 and phosphorus. So many good things.

When can I start eating this nutrient-filled deliciousness?! Right now.

Ingredient Notes

Tofu: Extra firm tofu is ideal here. It has the least liquid and will produce the crispiest end result.
Liquid Aminos: You can find liquid aminos in the Asian section of the grocery store, near the soy sauce. For another gluten-free option, use tamari. Or if you aren't gluten-free, you can use soy sauce.
Spices: onion powder, garlic powder, turmeric, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder. These spices are my go-tos but you can sub whatever spices you enjoy.

Spice combinations for tofu

I listed my go-to spices above, but there are truly endless possibilities. Here are some more ideas:

Taco Seasoning: my tofu tacos use my homemade taco seasoning but you can also use the baking method from this recipe with taco seasoning
Cajun Seasoning: a spicy mix of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne, among other spices. Cajun seasoning will bring a kick to your tofu.
Jerk Seasoning: a Jamaican seasoning blend made from spices like onion, garlic, and cayenne, with warming spices like allspice and cinnamon. Jerk seasoning is a savory, sweet, and spicy seasoning blend that will bring your tofu to the next level.
Poultry seasoning: one of my favorites for a more meat-like vibe. Poultry seasoning features spices like oregano, parsley, and thyme.
Turmeric + Pepper: A simple combination that tastes earthy and pungent.
Smoked Paprika + Garlic Powder + Onion Powder + Cumin + Turmeric: A robust flavor palate tasting spicy, earthy, and sharp.
Chinese 5 Spice: a spice made from star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan, and fennel. For a delightfully sweet and spicy tofu.

How to make Baked Spiced Tofu

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 450°F. For the tofu to get crispy, you'll need a high oven temperature and a moderate baking time.

Step 2. Start by pressing the tofu. You could get all fancy and get a tofu press, but I prefer to save money and use my own homemade contraption.

Simply wrap the tofu in paper towels and place between two baking sheets with something heavy on top. I use cans of beans!

Step 3. Mix the marinade ingredients in a small bowl.

Step 4. Chop the tofu into ¼-1/2 inch pieces. Place the tofu in a large bowl and pour on the marinade. Stir to coat.

Step 5. Place the tofu on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through. Enjoy!

This easy, baked spiced tofu is filled with flavor, has the perfect crispy texture, and is filled with good-for-you nutrients. Serve as an addition to any plant-powered meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a tofu press?

Nope! If you have one, that's great. But you definitely don't need one. All you need is a heavy object.

Can I use different ingredients in the marinade?

Yes. The marinade is very flexible. Adjust to whatever spices you prefer or have on hand.

My tofu isn't getting crispy, what do I do?

If your tofu isn't getting crispy, you can try increasing the oven temperature, turning on the convection setting (if you have it), or cutting the pieces in half, to increase the surface area. Or a combination of all three.

Serving suggestions

Since this baked tofu is a protein source, I recommend serving alongside a vegetable and carbohydrate for a balanced meal.

My go-to. A rice bowl - white rice and a few veggies like frozen broccoli, raw carrots, and cucumber.

Vegetables. Try this tofu with my Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower (my go-to roasted veggies. Other ideas I love: oil-free skillet fried Brussels sprouts, oil-free sautéed spinach, turmeric roasted cauliflower.

Carbohydrates. Rice, pasta, or sweet potato fries.

Recipe Prayer

God thank you for the gift of plants. Thank you for providing plant food in abundance for us to eat. You give us flavors and colors that only You, The Creator, could dream up - thank you. Enter into our lives when we cook this meal. In your name we pray, amen.

Loved this tofu? I've got some other tasty tofu recipes for you to try next:

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