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Spicy Roasted Tofu

This dish features tofu coated in smoky spices and roasted until crisp, creating a flavorful, tender bite with a satisfying crunch. The process involves pressing, cutting, tossing with spices and oil, and baking until golden and aromatic, resulting in a visually appealing and aromatic dish with a spicy kick.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu pressed and cubed
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika or sweet paprika for milder flavor
  • 1 tsp chili powder adjust for heat preference
  • 1 tsp cumin toasted for extra aroma
  • 1 tbsp oil neutral oil like vegetable or sesame
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1 tbsp lemon or lime juice added after roasting for brightness

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula or tongs

Method
 

  1. Press the tofu for at least 20 minutes, wrapping it in a towel and placing a weight on top to squeeze out excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispy texture.
  2. Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes, ensuring each piece is even for uniform roasting.
  3. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Toast the spices briefly in a dry skillet for added depth, then mix well.
  4. In a mixing bowl, toss the tofu cubes with oil until evenly coated. Then sprinkle and toss with the spice mixture, ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly.
  5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the tofu cubes in a single layer, giving each piece space to crisp up.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through, until edges are golden and crispy, and the spices are fragrant.
  7. Once baked, remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with lemon or lime juice for a fresh burst of flavor.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs if desired, and enjoy the smoky, spicy crunch.

Notes

For extra crunch, bake on a wire rack over the baking sheet. Adjust spice levels to suit your heat preference. Marinate the tofu with spices and oil for deeper flavor if desired.