Marinated Tofu (for the BEST Tofu Flavour!)

Name: Marinated Tofu (for the BEST Tofu Flavour!)
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 block firm tofu (14 oz), drained and pressed; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional); 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped (optional)

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking to transform tofu into a savory, flavorful, and crispy delight, this Marinated Tofu (for the BEST Tofu Flavour!) recipe is the answer. With a simple yet powerful marinade, this dish is perfect for stir-fries, salads, grain bowls, or as a protein-packed snack. Whether you’re a tofu aficionado or just starting your plant-based journey, this recipe guarantees the BEST tofu flavor and texture.

Ingredients:

1 block firm tofu (14 oz), drained and pressed

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

3 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey

1garlic clove, minced

1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)

1tablespoon green onions, chopped (optional)

Directions:

Prepare the Tofu:

Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. This step is key to achieving crispy tofu. Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, then place a heavy object (like a pan) on top. Let it press for 15–20 minutes.

Make the Marinade:

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, maple syrup (or honey), garlic, and ginger until well combined.

Marinate the Tofu:

Cut the pressed tofu into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. Place the tofu pieces in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag, and pour the marinade over them. Toss to coat evenly. Let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

Cook the Tofu:

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and cook the marinated tofu for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy:

Sprinkle the tofu with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve over rice, noodles, or in a fresh salad.

Serving Tips:

Pair with Grains: Serve marinated tofu over steamed rice, quinoa, or couscous for a hearty meal.

Add to Soups: Toss tofu into miso soup or ramen for added protein and flavor.

Wrap It Up: Use the tofu as a filling for wraps, pita pockets, or tacos.

Snack Option: Enjoy crispy tofu on its own as a protein-rich snack with a dipping sauce like spicy mayo or sweet chili sauce.

Party Appetizer: Serve as skewers with grilled vegetables for a fun and flavorful appetizer.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerate: Store leftover tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing.

Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain crispiness.

Freeze: Marinated tofu can be frozen before or after cooking. Place the pieces on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Store for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To thaw frozen tofu, let it sit in the fridge overnight. Reheat as desired.

Related Recipes:

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of tofu for this recipe?

Yes! While firm tofu is recommended for its texture and ability to hold the marinade, you can use extra-firm tofu for even more crispiness or silken tofu for softer dishes like soups or dips. Be sure to adjust pressing and cooking times accordingly.

How long should I marinate the tofu for the best flavor?

A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended, but for the most intense flavor, marinate the tofu for 2 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

Can I bake or air-fry the marinated tofu instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! To bake, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For air frying, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally. Both methods result in crispy tofu with minimal oil.

What can I do with leftover marinade?

You can use the leftover marinade as a sauce base by simmering it in a small pan until slightly thickened. It’s great for drizzling over rice or veggies. However, if the marinade has been in contact with raw tofu for a long time, boil it thoroughly to ensure food safety.