Crispy Baked Tofu Bites with Sweet Chili Sauce

These Crispy Baked Tofu Bites with Sweet Chili Sauce are a perfect balance of crispy, savory, and sweet flavors. The tofu is baked to perfection, with a golden, crunchy exterior, and served with a tangy sweet chili sauce for dipping. These bites are a great snack, appetizer, or even a light meal, packed with plant-based protein and flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu (about 14 oz)

• 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil

• 2 tbsp cornstarch

• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

• Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Preparation Steps

1. Press the Tofu

Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, and place a heavy object (like a cast-iron skillet) on top for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the tofu become crispy when baked.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

3. Prepare the Tofu Bites

Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into bite-sized cubes. In a bowl, mix together the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the tofu cubes to the bowl and gently toss them in the cornstarch mixture until evenly coated.

4. Bake the Tofu

Place the coated tofu cubes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy on all sides.

5. Prepare the Sweet Chili Sauce

While the tofu is baking, pour the sweet chili sauce into a small bowl for dipping. You can add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the sauce for extra brightness, if desired.

6. Serve

Once the tofu is crispy and golden, remove it from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Drizzle the tofu with the sweet chili sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for added flavor.

Expert Tips

• Make It Spicy: For extra heat, add a dash of sriracha or chopped fresh chili peppers to the sweet chili sauce.

• Flavor Variations: You can experiment with other spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for different flavor profiles.

• Serving Suggestions: Serve these crispy tofu bites with a side of rice, salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Why This Dish Works

The tofu bites are crispy on the outside but soft and tender on the inside, making them irresistible. The sweet chili sauce adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, while the garlic and onion powder enhance the savory flavor. It’s a simple, healthy, and flavorful snack or appetizer.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Tofu Bites with Sweet Chili Sauce are an easy and delicious snack or appetizer that’s full of flavor. The crispy tofu, combined with the sweet, tangy sauce, creates a satisfying and irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion.