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Crispy Baked BBQ Tofu Recipe

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4.1 from 9 reviews

This Crispy Baked BBQ Tofu recipe offers a delicious and healthy way to enjoy tofu with a crispy exterior and flavorful BBQ sauce glaze. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, this plant-based dish is easy to prepare and serves as a great main or side dish for six people, combining the texture of crispy tofu with the tangy, smoky notes of Kansas City style BBQ sauce.

Ingredients

Tofu Preparation

  • 2 (14-ounce) blocks firm or extra-firm tofu
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

BBQ Sauce

  • 18 ounces (about 2 cups) your favorite BBQ sauce (Kansas City Style recommended)

Instructions

  1. Press the Tofu: Wrap the tofu blocks in paper towels or a clean tea towel. Place a plate or pan on top, then weigh it down with something heavy like a cast iron pan. Let the tofu press for about 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) and grease a large sheet pan to prevent sticking.
  3. Slice the Tofu: Slice the pressed tofu crosswise into 1/2-inch thick pieces, then cut each piece diagonally into two triangles or your preferred shape like cubes or rectangles.
  4. Coat the Tofu: Place tofu pieces into a large ziplock bag. Add olive oil, cornstarch, and salt. Seal the bag and gently shake to evenly coat all tofu pieces with the dry and wet ingredients.
  5. Bake Tofu: Arrange the coated tofu pieces evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes until the tofu is golden on top.
  6. Add BBQ Sauce and Bake More: Remove the tofu briefly from the oven and pour the BBQ sauce over the pieces. Stir gently to coat them well, then return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
  7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Reheat using a microwave, air fryer, oven, or stovetop as preferred.

Notes

  • Pressing tofu removes excess water, which ensures crispiness when baked.
  • You can use any style of BBQ sauce you prefer for different flavor profiles.
  • The tofu does not freeze well; refrigerate leftovers instead.
  • Reheating options include microwave, air fryer, oven, or stovetop depending on convenience.
  • Cutting tofu into triangles creates nice texture and absorption of sauce, but cubes or rectangles also work well.