Craving that irresistible crunch without the guilt? Say hello to your new favourite tofu recipe! Forget everything you thought you knew about bland, rubbery tofu. This Super Crispy Low Oil Tofu is a game-changer, delivering a symphony of textures and flavours with just a touch of oil. It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and so versatile you’ll want to add it to every dish. Get ready to discover the secret to perfectly crispy, fluffy tofu that’s both healthy and incredibly delicious. Your taste buds (and waistline) will thank you!
😋 Why I love this recipe!
This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. The hands-off cooking is a lifesaver on busy days, while the minimal oil makes it perfect for when you are watching your calories. The crispy exterior gives way to a surprisingly fluffy centre that’s downright addictive. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, pairing perfectly with everything from vibrant stir-fries to hearty grain bowls. This tofu is a flavour powerhouse that satisfies cravings – a true culinary chameleon you’ll want to make again and again.
📝 Ingredient notes
500g Tofu: The star of our dish! Choose extra-firm tofu for the best crispy texture. Tofu is a fantastic plant-based protein source, packed with essential nutrients like iron and calcium.
3 tbsp Corn Flour (Cornstarch): This magical powder is our key to crispy success! It creates a light, golden crust when baked.
1 tbsp Oil (14g): While we’re keeping it light, a touch of oil helps the tofu brown beautifully and prevents sticking. Opt for high-heat oils like avocado or sunflower oil. Feel free to experiment with flavoured oils like sesame for a delicious twist!
1 tsp Salt: Enhances the tofu’s natural flavours.
1 tsp Black Pepper: Adds warmth and depth to the dish.
🥣 How to make this super crispy low oil tofu
- Prep the Tofu: Roughly chop the tofu into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. The shape doesn’t have to be perfect, just aim for similar sizes for even cooking.
- Coat with Goodness: Transfer the tofu chunks to a mixing bowl and add the cornflour, salt, and pepper. Gently toss the tofu until each piece is evenly coated with the mixture.
- Prepare the Baking Tray: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the tofu from sticking and make clean-up a breeze. Lightly spray the parchment paper with a few spritzes of oil.
- Arrange and Spray: Arrange the coated tofu pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece for optimal crisping. Lightly spray the tops of the tofu with oil, ensuring all sides are coated.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown and crispy. If your oven has hot spots, rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even browning. There’s no need to flip the tofu pieces.
💡 Tips for getting it right!
- Pressing Tofu: There’s no need to press the tofu for this recipe. The oven’s heat will effectively remove excess moisture as the tofu bakes, resulting in a perfectly crispy texture.
- Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the tofu during the last 10 minutes of baking. Ovens vary, so adjust baking time to achieve your desired level of crispness.
🎨 Potential variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of your favourite chilli powder to the coating mix for a fiery twist.
- Asian-Inspired: Toss the baked tofu with a drizzle of sesame oil and soy sauce, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and garnish with chopped green onions.
🍽️ How to use these super crispy low oil tofu
Toss this crispy tofu into a vibrant stir-fry with colourful veggies for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Crumble it over a fresh salad for a protein-packed lunch that’s bursting with texture and flavour. Use it in firecracker tofu, pad thai, swap it out in the rice bowl or the ramen!
🤔 Frequently asked questions
Is pressing tofu necessary for this recipe?
No, pressing the tofu is not required. The oven’s heat will effectively remove excess moisture as the tofu bakes, resulting in a crispy texture.
Can I use a different type of flour instead of corn flour?
Yes, you can substitute arrowroot powder or potato starch for a gluten-free option. These will also help create a crispy coating.
What type of oil should I use for spraying the tofu?
Use a high-heat oil like avocado or sunflower oil for best results. These oils can withstand high temperatures without burning.
Can I bake the tofu without using any oil?
While a small amount of oil helps with browning and prevents sticking, you can try baking the tofu without oil. You may need to adjust the baking time and watch closely to prevent sticking.
How can I store leftover crispy tofu?
Store leftover tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
Super Crispy Low Oil Tofu
Equipment
- 1 Knife
- 1 Oil spray bottle
Instructions
- Preheat oven: to 200°C (400°F).
- Prep tofu: Roughly chop tofu into 1-inch cubes.
- Coat: Toss tofu with corn flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl until evenly coated.
- Prep tray: Line baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil.
- Arrange & spray: Spread tofu on a tray in a single layer and lightly spray tops with oil.
- Bake: 30-35 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Rotate tray halfway for even browning.
Notes
- Substitute corn flour with arrowroot or potato starch if that’s what you have.
- Use high-heat oil like avocado or sunflower for best results.