ObiHomemade Tofu Marinade And Marinated Tofu Recipe
I’ve made a lot of tofu recipes and have had tofu in different forms, I must say I’m one of the best ambassadors for tofu, but I didn’t expect trying this marinated tofu would completely change everything for me. Making tofu something I truly look forward to cooking. Well, this simple marinade made the difference that completely changed my mind.
Picture a block of firm tofu soaking in a mixture of salty soy sauce, maple syrup, ginger, garlic, sesame oil and a host of other good stuff you love. You can clearly tell it’s about to be one of the most flavorful tofu dish.
When the tofu has had time to sit in the marinade, it becomes richer in flavor and goodness. Every cube soaks up the flavours and gets ready for that perfect crisp finish. You can cook it in a skillet, bake it in the oven, or even pop it into an air fryer if that’s more your style. However you cook it, the outside turns golden and crisp, while the inside stays soft and full of flavour.
I can feel you salivating already, so I’d prefer to let the guided recipe put you through the steps to make both the tofu marinade and ultimately the marinated tofu once you’re done.
Homemade Marinated Tofu Recipe
Equipment
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Tofu press or heavy pan with towels
- Baking sheet or skillet depending on cooking method
- Zip-top bag or shallow dish for marinating
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or agave
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
- 1 tbsp sriracha or chili paste optional for heat
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Tofu
- 14 oz 400 g extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed or sliced
Instructions
Prepare the Tofu
- Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, this helps it absorb the marinade and crisp up during cooking.
- Slice or cube the tofu to your preferred shape.
Make the Marinade
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
- soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, sriracha, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
- Taste and adjust, add more sweetness for balance or extra vinegar for brightness.
Marinate
- Place tofu in a zip-top bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the tofu and gently toss to coat.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight for stronger flavor).
Cook the Tofu
Bake:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Spread tofu on a lined baking sheet and bake 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Pan-Fry:
- Heat a pan over medium heat
- Add a light splash of oil
- Cook tofu 6-8 minutes, turning until golden and crispy.
Nutrition
Obi
Jessica
