TL/DR – Easy Baked Tofu. Oil, seasoning, baking sheet, 350 degree oven for about 20 minutes. Perfection. –
There is some debate around how to cook tofu that is delicious. In my experience, tofu is better when seasoned with dry seasonings and baked so that I can do other things while it’s in the oven. It’s also less of a mess to bake tofu; the skillet can be messy because the inherent moisture in tofu can cause lots of crackles and pops. This recipe for easy baked tofu fits wonderfully into my cooking style because it’s extremely easy, versatile and quick.
Start with extra firm tofu. Tip: many brands sell a 15.5 oz twin pack of tofu so that you don’t have to cook an entire 14 oz package. Slice it into smaller squares or rectangles, about 1/2 inch thick and fold the pieces into a clean kitchen towel to remove some of the moisture.
Toss the tofu pieces in extra virgin olive oil. Season them moderately with paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Arrange the pieces on a baking sheet and bake them at 350 degrees F for about 20 minutes.
The result is something that is compatible with a lot of meals, meal preps, or sides. Try it on top of Broccoli Bulgur Salad .
Easy Baked Tofu
Ingredients
- 1 14 oz package extra firm tofu
- 3 T extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 t paprika
- 1/2 t garlic powder
- 1/2 t kosher salt
- 1/4 t ground black pepper
Directions
- Step 1 Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Step 2 Slice the tofu into squares that are about 1/2 inch thick.
- Step 3 Place the squares onto a kitchen towel and fold the towel over twice. Allow the tofu to drain into the towel for 5 – 10 minutes.
- Step 4 On a baking sheet, toss the drained tofu squares in the extra virgin olive oil. Tip: to avoid sticking, use parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Step 5 Arrange the squares evenly on the baking sheet, then sprinkle the paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper on both sides.
- Step 6 Bake for about 20 minutes.
