Ingredients:

  • 1 Block (14 – 16 oz / 400 – 450 g) Extra-Firm or Super-Firm Tofu
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) Neutral Oil (e.g., Canola, Grapeseed, or Avocado)
  • 3 Tbsp (45 ml) Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (or Tamari for Gluten-Free)
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) Maple Syrup or Agave Nectar
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Toasted Sesame Oil
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) White Pepper (optional)
  • 3 Tbsp (45 ml) Cornstarch (or Tapioca/Arrowroot Starch)
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) Fine Sea Salt (or to taste)

Instructions:

  1. Press the Tofu: Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain the water. Wrap the block in towels and weigh it down (using a press or heavy objects). Press for a minimum of 30 minutes to remove excess moisture. This is crucial for crispiness.
  2. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a standard baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Cut the Tofu: Unwrap the pressed tofu, blot any residual moisture, and cut the block into even, bite-sized cubes (roughly 3/4 inch / 2 cm squares).
  4. Toss with Liquid Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil, garlic powder, and white pepper. Add the tofu cubes and gently toss to coat. Let stand for 5 minutes to absorb some flavour.
  5. Add the Crisping Agent: Add the cornstarch and sea salt to the bowl containing the marinated tofu. Gently toss or shake the bowl until every surface is coated in a thin, dry layer of starch.
  6. Add Fat: Drizzle the 1 Tbsp of neutral oil over the coated tofu cubes and toss one final time. The oil helps activate the crisping process in the oven.
  7. Spread and Bake (First Round): Arrange the seasoned tofu cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure there is space between the pieces, as overcrowding will cause them to steam.
  8. Bake Initial: Bake for 15 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
  9. Flip: Remove the tray and use a spatula to flip each piece of tofu. They should be beginning to turn golden brown.
  10. Bake Final: Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the tofu is deeply golden brown, firm to the touch, and seriously crispy on the edges.
  11. Serve Immediately: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with your chosen sauce or glaze.