These crispy baked tofu sticks are a tasty and healthy snack! They have a golden, crunchy outside and a soft inside, making them a real treat. Plus, they are easy to make!
I love dipping them in my favorite sauce for an extra punch. They’re perfect for meal prep too—just bake a batch and enjoy them throughout the week! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu is best for this recipe. It holds its shape when baked. If you’re avoiding soy, consider using tempeh or chickpeas as alternatives, but note that cooking times may vary.
Soy Sauce/Tamari: Soy sauce adds saltiness and depth. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. If avoiding soy, try coconut aminos for a milder flavor.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty aroma. If you don’t have it, you can use olive oil or another neutral oil, though the flavor will change slightly.
Maple Syrup/Honey: Both sweeteners enhance the flavor. You could use agave syrup if you need a vegan alternative. Adjust the amount to your taste.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika give flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika or even cumin can work, but they offer a different taste.
What’s the Best Way to Press Tofu?
Pressing tofu is crucial for getting it crispy. Many people struggle with this step. Here’s how to do it right:
- Remove the tofu from the package and drain it completely.
- Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Place a heavy object (like a cast-iron skillet or a few cans) on top to press it for 20-30 minutes.
- Letting it sit longer helps achieve the best texture.
This simple technique helps get rid of excess moisture, making sure your tofu sticks turn out crispy and delicious! You can also buy a tofu press if you enjoy making tofu frequently.
How to Make Crispy Baked Tofu Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- Cooking spray or oil for baking sheet
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15-20 minutes to prepare the ingredients and 25-30 minutes to bake them. You should also allow for 20-30 minutes to press the tofu, bringing the total time to roughly 1 hour, including resting time. Minimal effort for a deliciously crispy snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Press the Tofu:
First, remove the tofu from its package and drain any excess water. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, then place a heavy object on top—like a cast-iron skillet—to press it for about 20-30 minutes. This removes moisture, helping the tofu become crispy.
2. Preheat the Oven:
While the tofu is pressing, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil.
3. Cut the Tofu:
After pressing, cut the tofu block into sticks, about ¾ inch wide and 3 inches long. Aim for even sizes so they cook uniformly.
4. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk until smooth.
5. Coat the Tofu Sticks:
Gently toss the tofu sticks in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the delicious flavors.
6. Add Cornstarch:
Sprinkle the cornstarch over the marinated tofu sticks and toss lightly to coat them evenly. This helps give the sticks a crunchy exterior when baked.
7. Arrange for Baking:
Place the tofu sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t touching each other. This allows hot air to circulate and helps with crispiness.
8. Sprinkle Sesame Seeds:
Generously sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of the tofu sticks for an extra layer of crunch and flavor.
9. Bake:
Bake the tofu sticks in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they become crispy on all sides.
10. Serve:
Once golden brown and crispy, remove the tofu sticks from the oven. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce like peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or soy sauce. Enjoy your crunchy and flavorful crispy baked tofu sticks!
FAQ for Crispy Baked Tofu Sticks
Can I Use Soft or Silken Tofu Instead?
No, it’s best to use firm or extra-firm tofu for this recipe. Soft or silken tofu is too delicate and won’t hold its shape during baking, resulting in mushy sticks. If you’re looking for a softer texture, consider adding silken tofu in a blended sauce instead!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Both options provide similar flavor profiles without gluten.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Tofu Sticks?
These crispy tofu sticks are delicious with a variety of dipping sauces! Popular choices include peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. Feel free to get creative with your favorite flavors!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to crisp them back up. You can also use an air fryer for quick reheating!