Description
This Baked Lemon Pepper Tofu recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy crispy, flavorful tofu infused with fresh lemon zest and black pepper. Perfectly baked until golden and crispy on the edges, this dish serves as a wonderful vegan protein option for any meal. It’s easy to prepare and packed with bright, zesty flavors, making it an excellent choice for both tofu lovers and newcomers.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu
- 14 oz firm tofu
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure an even cooking temperature throughout the baking process.
- Press Tofu: Drain the tofu and gently press it between paper towels to remove excess moisture, which is key to achieving a crispy texture when baked.
- Cut Tofu: Slice the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes or rectangles. Smaller pieces will result in crispier tofu.
- Make Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt to create a bright and flavorful marinade.
- Marinate Tofu: Add the tofu pieces to the bowl and gently toss to coat them evenly in the marinade. Allow the tofu to marinate for about 10 minutes so it absorbs the fresh flavors.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the marinated tofu pieces in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded to ensure even crisping.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through to ensure even cooking on all sides.
- Check Crispiness: The tofu should be golden brown and crispy on the edges. If not crispy enough, bake for an additional 5 minutes until desired texture is achieved.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Let the tofu cool slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Pressing tofu thoroughly is essential for achieving a crispy texture.
- Marinating for at least 10 minutes allows the tofu to absorb the lemony and peppery flavors effectively.
- Flipping the tofu halfway through baking helps to brown all sides evenly.
- Adjust salt and lemon juice quantities to taste depending on personal preference.
- Use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best results; soft or silken tofu will not hold up well to baking.
