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How to Cook Marinated Tofu Recipe

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4 from 8 reviews

  • Author: Lea
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This marinated tofu recipe offers a flavorful and versatile way to prepare firm or extra-firm tofu with a savory soy-based marinade enhanced by rice vinegar, spicy Sambal Oelek, and aromatic Chinese five-spice powder. The tofu can be cooked to a golden perfection using air frying, pan frying, or oven baking methods, making it adaptable for different kitchen setups and preferences. It’s perfect as a protein-rich main dish or added to sandwiches and salads.

Ingredients

Tofu

  • 1 package firm or extra-firm tofu

Marinade

  • 6 tablespoons soy sauce (or Tamari sauce or Bragg's amino acids)
  • 3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Sambal Oelek or Sriracha sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder or cumin
  • 3 tablespoons water

Cooking

  • Non-stick spray or 1 teaspoon oil (for air fryer or pan frying)

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu: Drain excess fluids from the tofu by pressing it between your hands. For better results, place tofu on a cutting board, cover with a plate, and weigh down with a heavy can. Leave for 15 minutes to remove as much moisture as possible.
  2. Cut the tofu: Slice the tofu into small cubes slightly smaller than 1 square inch or cut into triangles if preferred for sandwiches.
  3. Make and apply marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, Sambal Oelek, Chinese five-spice powder, and water to create the marinade. Add the tofu cubes to the bowl and toss them until well coated. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least a few hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even flavor absorption. Tofu can marinate for up to several days for intensified taste.
  4. Storage: Keep uncooked, marinated tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  5. Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Lightly spray or oil the basket. Remove tofu from the marinade, arrange pieces in a single layer without overlap. Air fry for 15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally to brown evenly. Remove when golden and crispy. Optionally, drizzle with remaining marinade before serving.
  6. Pan Fried Tofu Method: Heat a grill pan, cast iron pan, or non-stick skillet over high heat and add 1 teaspoon oil. Remove tofu from marinade and place in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, turning until all sides are browned and grill marks appear if using a grill pan. Top with leftover marinade if desired.
  7. Oven Baked Tofu Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper. Arrange marinated tofu pieces on the sheet without overlapping. Bake for 15 minutes, flip tofu over, and bake for another 15 minutes until golden and slightly crispy. Add a few spoonfuls of leftover marinade on top before serving if you like.

Notes

  • Ensure tofu is well-pressed to improve texture and flavor absorption.
  • Marinating tofu overnight yields best flavor intensity but a few hours also works.
  • Use extra-firm tofu to prevent crumbling during cooking.
  • Adjust spiciness by varying the amount of Sambal Oelek or Sriracha.
  • Leftover marinated tofu can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Air frying yields a crispy exterior without extra oil.
  • Choose your cooking method based on available equipment and preferred texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-30 minutes depending on cooking method
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Find it online: https://recipesbylea.com/how-to-cook-marinated-tofu-recipe/