What To Know
- Drain the tofu thoroughly and press it between paper towels or a tofu press to remove excess moisture.
- For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve the crispy tofu immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a stir-fry, salad, or sandwich.
Tofu, a versatile plant-based protein, can be transformed into a crispy culinary delight when cooked in a convection oven. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to achieve perfectly crispy tofu every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
- Start with extra-firm tofu.
- Drain the tofu thoroughly and press it between paper towels or a tofu press to remove excess moisture.
- Cut the tofu into cubes or slabs, depending on your preference.
Step 2: Season and Marinate (Optional)
- Season the tofu with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
- For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Coat the Tofu
- For a crispy exterior, coat the tofu in cornstarch or bread crumbs.
- Cornstarch provides a lighter, crunchier crust, while bread crumbs create a thicker, golden-brown coating.
Step 4: Preheat the Convection Oven
- Preheat your convection oven to 400°F (200°C).
- The convection setting circulates hot air around the tofu, ensuring even cooking and a crispy texture.
Step 5: Bake the Tofu
- Spread the tofu evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the tofu halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
Step 6: Check for Crispiness
- Insert a toothpick or fork into the tofu. If it comes out clean, the tofu is crispy.
- If not, bake for a few more minutes.
Step 7: Enjoy!
- Serve the crispy tofu immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a stir-fry, salad, or sandwich.
Tips for Extra Crispy Tofu
- Use a convection oven with a fan speed setting.
- Preheat the oven thoroughly before baking.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet.
- Flip the tofu halfway through baking to prevent burning.
- Cook the tofu until it is golden brown and crispy to the touch.
- Let the tofu cool slightly before serving to enhance the crispiness.
Creative Variations
- Spicy Tofu: Add chili powder or Sriracha to the cornstarch or bread crumb coating.
- Herb-Infused Tofu: Mix chopped fresh herbs into the cornstarch or bread crumb coating.
- Sweet and Savory Tofu: Marinate the tofu in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
- Sesame-Crusted Tofu: Coat the tofu in a mixture of cornstarch and sesame seeds.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Why is my tofu not crispy?
A: Make sure you pressed out excess moisture, coated it thoroughly, and baked it long enough at a high temperature.
Q: Can I use a regular oven instead of a convection oven?
A: Yes, but the cooking time may be longer and the tofu may not be as crispy.
Q: How do I store crispy tofu?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer before serving.
Q: What are some dipping sauces for crispy tofu?
A: Try soy sauce, sriracha mayo, sweet and sour sauce, or a simple mixture of olive oil and lemon juice.
Q: Can I freeze crispy tofu?
A: Yes, freeze cooked and cooled tofu in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
