If you’re craving something crunchy, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this Crispy Tofu with Peanut Sauce Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. I’ve been making this dish when I want a comforting vegetarian meal that comes together in just half an hour, and trust me, it never disappoints!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
I’m a huge fan of meals that feel indulgent but are actually pretty healthy—and this crispy baked tofu slathered in a luscious peanut sauce fits the bill perfectly. Plus, it’s super easy to make with just a handful of ingredients you probably already have.
- Crispy texture: Baking the tofu with a cornstarch coating gives it that irresistibly crunchy exterior without frying.
- Simple peanut sauce: Creamy, tangy, and just the right balance of savory and sweet—totally addictive.
- Quick prep: It takes only 5 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile dish: Works great as a main, side, or tossed into salads and noodles for extra oomph.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Before we start, here’s a little shopping tip: always opt for super firm tofu when possible—it holds its shape beautifully and crisps up like a dream. And for the sauce, creamy or crunchy peanut butter works just fine, so feel free to pick whichever you prefer.
- Super firm tofu: Provides the perfect texture to bake crispy without falling apart.
- Oil: Helps the tofu get golden and crispy in the oven.
- Cornstarch: The secret to that irresistible crunchy crust on the tofu.
- Peanut butter: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce, whether creamy or crunchy.
- Sesame oil (optional): A little goes a long way adding that subtle nutty aroma.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Balances the sweetness and adds savory depth.
- Brown sugar: Gives the peanut sauce a touch of sweetness without overpowering it.
- Lime juice: Brings brightness and a slight tang that lifts the flavors.
- Hot water: Used to adjust the sauce consistency to perfectly coat the tofu.
- Green onion: A fresh, vibrant garnish that adds a mild sharpness and color.
Make It Your Way
One of the best parts about this Crispy Tofu with Peanut Sauce Recipe is how flexible it is. Feel free to play around with the flavors and textures to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Let's explore some fun variations you might enjoy!
- Spicy Kick: I love adding a teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the peanut sauce for a little heat. It wakes up the flavors beautifully without overwhelming the dish.
- Crunch Factor: Sometimes, I sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts or toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving. The added crunch is a delicious contrast to the creamy peanut sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in blanched broccoli florets, shredded carrots, or snap peas with the tofu before baking. It makes the dish more colorful and adds a fresh bite.
- Nut-Free Option: To accommodate nut allergies, swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and omit the sesame oil. It still tastes fantastic and keeps the creaminess intact.
- Seasonal Twist: In cooler months, I like stirring in a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger into the peanut sauce for warmth and depth.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Tofu with Peanut Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Coat Your Tofu Pieces for Maximum Crisp
Start by tossing your super firm tofu cubes with 3 tablespoons of oil in a medium bowl. The oil helps the cornstarch stick and promotes that golden crust we’re after. Next, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of cornstarch over the tofu and gently toss until every piece is evenly coated. This little step is key to achieving that satisfying crispiness. After this, rinse and dry the bowl—you’ll use it again later for saucing!
Step 2: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange the tofu cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer—give them space so they crisp properly without steaming. Pop them into your oven preheated to 400°F. Bake for a total of 25 minutes, flipping the cubes halfway through at about the 12 to 13-minute mark. You’ll notice the tofu turning beautifully golden and developing a satisfying crunch. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook, but don’t worry—this timing is perfect for that crisp texture.
Step 3: Whisk Up the Creamy Peanut Sauce
While your tofu is baking, it’s time to prepare that irresistible peanut sauce. In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, your choice), 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (if you’re using it—this gives a lovely depth), 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon lime juice. Add a splash of hot water and stir vigorously to bring everything together. Keep adding hot water in small amounts until you reach that perfect creamy, pourable consistency that clings to every tofu cube.
Step 4: Toss and Coat With Love
When your tofu has reached that golden crunch, carefully transfer it back into the cleaned medium bowl. Pour your silky peanut sauce over the tofu and gently toss, making sure each piece is coated evenly and thoroughly. This step is all about marrying that crisp texture with rich, tangy flavor.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve Immediately
Finish off by sprinkling sliced green onions over the top for a fresh, mild bite and a pop of color. Serve your Crispy Tofu with Peanut Sauce immediately while it’s warm—this way you get the perfect contrast between crispy tofu and creamy sauce. Enjoy every bite of this vibrant, satisfying dish!
Top Tip
Getting that perfect crispy texture on your tofu while balancing the rich, creamy peanut sauce can take your Crispy Tofu with Peanut Sauce Recipe from good to unforgettable. Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you nail it every time.
- Press or dry your tofu well: Even though we’re using super firm tofu, making sure it’s well dried by patting it with paper towels helps the cornstarch stick better and crisps up nicely in the oven.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch coating: This simple step creates that irresistible golden crust that keeps the inside soft and tender.
- Flip halfway through baking: Turning the tofu ensures all sides become evenly crispy instead of just one side.
- Control your sauce consistency: Adding hot water little by little and whisking vigorously lets you achieve the perfect creamy, pourable peanut sauce that clings just right to every tofu cube.
How to Serve Crispy Tofu with Peanut Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes are all you need to brighten up this dish. Freshly sliced green onions add a pop of color and a mild, fresh bite that cuts through the richness of the peanut sauce. Try sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added crunch and nuttiness if you’re feeling fancy!
Side Dishes
This crispy tofu shines as a main or a side. Pair it with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a filling vegetarian meal. Steamed or stir-fried veggies like bok choy, snap peas, or broccoli complement the flavors perfectly. For a light option, toss some crunchy Asian cabbage slaw on the side to contrast textures beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover crispy tofu coated in peanut sauce tastes great the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the tofu may soften a bit as it sits, but the flavors only deepen.
Freezing
For best texture, it’s recommended to freeze the tofu cubes before saucing them. Arrange baked tofu cubes on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and tossing with peanut sauce fresh.
Reheating
To regain that crispiness, reheat your tofu in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again. Once heated, toss with peanut sauce and garnish before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes, you can substitute firm tofu, but pressing it well to remove excess moisture is essential to achieve that crispy texture similar to super firm tofu.
Sesame oil is optional but highly recommended as it adds a lovely nutty depth to the sauce. If you don’t have it, you can omit it without sacrificing the overall flavor.
Simply add hot water in small splashes while whisking until the sauce reaches your preferred creamy and pourable consistency.
Absolutely! Use gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free without compromising flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Tofu with Peanut Sauce Recipe is one of those comforting, flavorful dishes that feels special yet comes together with minimal fuss. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s rewarding to serve up tofu that’s crispy on the outside, tender inside, and enveloped in a creamy, tangy peanut sauce. I hope these tips and ideas inspire you to make this recipe your own and enjoy every bite!
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Crispy Tofu with Peanut Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Crispy Tofu with Peanut Sauce recipe featuring super firm tofu baked to golden perfection and coated in a creamy, tangy peanut sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying vegetarian main or side dish.
Ingredients
Tofu
- 1 pound super firm tofu dried and cubed
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Peanut Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted creamy or crunchy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- Hot water as needed for sauce consistency
Garnish
- Green onion for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare tofu: In a medium bowl, toss the tofu cubes with oil until evenly coated. Then add cornstarch and mix well to coat all pieces evenly. Rinse and dry the bowl to use later for tossing with sauce.
- Bake tofu: Arrange the tofu cubes on a sheet pan in a single layer. Bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness and golden color.
- Make peanut sauce: While the tofu bakes, combine peanut butter, sesame oil if using, soy sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice in a small bowl. Add a splash of hot water and stir vigorously until the sauce is smooth. Add more hot water gradually as needed to reach a creamy, pourable consistency.
- Coat tofu with sauce: Once the tofu is golden and crispy, transfer it back to the cleaned medium bowl. Pour the peanut sauce over the tofu and gently toss to coat each piece evenly and thoroughly.
- Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and serve the crispy tofu immediately while warm for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For the crispiest tofu, press extra-firm tofu or pat super-firm tofu dry, don’t skip the cornstarch coating, and avoid overcrowding the pan while baking.
- To minimize clean-up, re-use the same bowl for tossing the tofu and making the sauce, and line the baking tray with parchment paper or foil.
- Adjust peanut sauce thickness by adding hot water a splash at a time and whisking to achieve desired consistency.
- For a drier peanut coating, toss baked tofu with half the peanut sauce, then bake for an additional 4-6 minutes before tossing with remaining sauce to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
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