If you’ve ever tried making tofu at home and ended up with something soggy, bland, or just meh, I’m here to change that! Whenever I meet someone who says they don’t like tofu, I’m convinced they haven’t had it made the right way. Tofu has the power to be crispy, flavorful, and, dare I say, addictive? You just need to know the right way to make it. And guess what? Making the Perfect Crispy Tofu easier than you think!
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For many, tofu can be a bit of a tricky ingredient to master, partially because it’s not often used in western cooking. We tend to default to meat, which is, of course, great, and the staple of so many amazing recipes. But for my plant-based friends, learning the art of cooking tofu can not only be valuable as a replacement to meat, but a high-protein, super-satisfying way to meet your nutritional needs!
Whether you’re fully plant-based or just looking to switch things up, crispy tofu is a must-have in your cooking repertoire. It’s easy, foolproof, and ridiculously versatile. Add it to wraps, toss it in salads, or just eat it straight from the pan (no judgment here). However you serve it, one thing’s for sure — you’re going to love it.
In this post, I’m taking it back to the basics, and sharing the BEST way I’ve found to make crispy tofu. If you don’t like tofu, you have to try it this way; my crispy tofu gets soft and pillowy and practically melts in your mouth underneath the crispy coating!
And the best part of this recipe? It’s practically foolproof. It’s so easy, and yields the perfect crispy tofu every time. I promise, this is a game changer.
To make this Perfect Crispy Tofu, you only need a few key ingredients. It’s super easy!
The best part about this tofu recipe, is that it’s not only so easy, but it’s also so versatile! You can absolutely eat this crispy tofu on its own, served alongside your favorite sauce, but here are a few good recipes it would work well in!
Healthy Pasta Salad with Creamy Peanut Sauce – simply add the tofu to the existing recipe!
Cucumber Avocado Salad – these two would make for two awesome, asian-inspired sides!
Paleo Cashew Chicken – Replace the chicken with your crispy tofu!
Tuna Poke Bowls – Again, you can replace the tuna with the crispy tofu, or serve on the side!
Thai-Inspired Crispy Tofu Wraps – No substitutions needed!
There are so many types of tofu, from silken to firm and even pumpkin tofu (seriously). But, crispy tofu works best when you’re using firm or extra firm tofu. I personally like using sprouted, extra-firm tofu that I buy from Whole Foods, but any extra-firm tofu will work.
Yes, pressing the tofu is a must. It takes a little bit of prep work, but is so worth it once you get that perfectly crispy texture! To press your tofu, you can use a tofu press, or do what I do and use the DIY method!
Start by taking a cutting board and layering it with paper towels. Then, place your block of tofu on top. You’ll want multiple layers of paper towels, so you can soak up as much water as possible. Next, place another few layers of paper towels on top of the tofu, and then place something heavy on top. I usually use old books, but you can also use jars, cans, or anything that you don’t mind getting wet!
Leave your tofu to “press” for at least 20-30 minutes, or overnight (just be sure to change the paper towels every so often).
If you make this recipe, please be sure to leave a comment/rating below. And, since I practically live on Instagram, be sure to tag me in your creations, so I can see them and repost on my IG stories! Enjoy! xx
I’d love to see what you made – tag @kalejunkie
in your posts and I’ll re-share!
WHAT DID YOU THINK?
Rate + Review
This is the best AND easiest crisp tofu recipe I have found. Absolutely delicious!
So easy and so good!! Added to veggies with an almond butter stir fry sauce and *chefs kiss*
Yum!! I love that, Carlee! Thanks so much for your review!