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Spicy Roasted Tofu

This dish features firm tofu roasted until crisp and golden, infused with smoky chili and garlic flavors. The roasting process creates a crunchy exterior while keeping the interior tender, resulting in a smoky, spicy snack with an enticing aroma. Perfect for a quick, satisfying treat that highlights simple ingredients transformed through roasting.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz firm or extra-firm tofu pressed and cubed
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch helps crisp the tofu
  • 2 tsp chili powder smoky preferred
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika adds depth
  • 1 tsp garlic powder roasted garlic flavor
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil such as grapeseed
  • 1 tsp lime juice brightens the spice

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Pressing weight or heavy book
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Wrap the pressed tofu in a clean towel and set a heavy object on top to press out excess water for about 20 minutes, until it feels firm and dry to the touch.
  2. Unwrap the tofu and cut it into roughly 1.5 cm (0.6 inch) cubes, aiming for even sizes for uniform roasting.
  3. In a small bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until evenly coated; this will help create a crispy surface during roasting.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and a drizzle of oil, stirring to form a fragrant spice mixture.
  5. Add the coated tofu cubes to the spice mixture and gently toss to coat each piece thoroughly with the spicy blend.
  6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the tofu cubes in a single, even layer, ensuring they aren’t crowded for optimal crisping.
  7. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and roast the tofu for 12 minutes, then carefully flip each piece with a spatula to promote even browning.
  8. Continue roasting for another 12–15 minutes, until the edges are deep amber, crackle when pressed, and the tofu feels firm and crispy.
  9. Remove the tofu from the oven, drizzle with lime juice, and let rest for 5 minutes to set the crust and enhance flavor.
  10. Serve the spicy roasted tofu immediately, garnished with herbs or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing, and enjoy the smoky, spicy crunch.

Notes

For extra heat, toss in sliced fresh chilies before roasting. To store leftovers, keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in a hot oven for best crunch.