Appetizers + Side Dishes
Gluten-Free Coconut Crispy Baked Tofu
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
15 minutes
Yield
3 -4
This crispy baked tofu is gluten free, and the perfect healthy snack that you're going to love.
This delicious, crispy baked tofu is the perfect snack with a crunch. The coconut batter gives it a pop of flavor, and when dipped in a sweet chili sauce, it is seriously such a good appy or snack that you won’t be able to put it down.
Why you’ll love this crispy baked tofu:
- Quick: Make this recipe in just 30 minutes
- Crunchy: The coconut crunch to this baked tofu is oh-so-delicious
- Versatile: Eat these as a snack, serve as an appy, or throw on top of a salad or bowl
Ingredient Notes:
Tofu: You’ll want to use extra firm tofu for this recipe, and make sure you press it for at least 15 minutes prior to making this recipe to get out any excess moisture. This makes for the best consistency.
Coconut: Coconut is not only delicious but it’s also high in manganese which is essential for bone health. Make sure to use unsweetened coconut for this recipe though as you don’t need sweetness in this baked tofu.
How to make crispy baked tofu:
- Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Preheat oven to 425F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut tofu into 1 inch pieces, toss with tamari and set aside.
- Setup two shallow bowls:(1) Batter: Whisk together gluten free all purpose flour, non dairy milk, lime juice, salt and pepper until smooth.(2) Breading: Mix together unsweetened shredded coconut, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
- Next, toss the tofu cubes in the batter, use a spatula or spoon to toss and coat well.
- Then, add the tofu cubes to the shredded coconut mixture and gently press the tofu into the mixture, pressing on each side to ensure they stick. Place on the baking sheet when coated and spray cubes with cooking spray of choice.
- Bake tofu on the middle rack of the oven for 10 minutes, flip and bake for another 5-8 or until starting to turn golden brown.
- Serve with sweet chili sauce, a squeeze of lime juice, chopped green onions and a sprinkle of cilantro.
Expert Tips & FAQ:
Why is my baked tofu not crispy? You’re not pressing out the extra moisture beforehand. Place your tofu, out of the package, on paper towels on a plate or cutting board, and place a heavy object on top like a can. Let sit for at least 15 minutes.
How to get a crispy crust on tofu? Often the best way to get a crispy crust on tofu is by frying it in a pan, battered, with oil. However, the healthier way to do this is to batter your tofu and oven-bake it.
Is it better to bake or fry tofu? Baking to me is better because it’s easier, less messy, and you get that crispy tofu without all the added oil.
What is the secret to crunchy tofu? Using cornstarch in the batter is key. You can also use flour in its place.
Other recipes you’ll love:
- Quick + Easy Watermelon + Mint with Tofu Feta Salad
- Roasted Beet Salad with Feta and Pistachios
- Pearl Couscous Greek Salad with Tofu Feta and a Creamy Dill Dressing
- Greek Lentil Salad
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Gluten Free Coconut Crispy Baked Tofu
Ingredients
- 350-450 g extra firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1 inch pieces
- 3 tbsp tamari
Batter
- 4 tbsp gluten free all purpose flour
- 2/3 cup non dairy milk
- juice of half a lime
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Breading
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- avocado oil cooking spray (or another cooking spray of choice)
- chopped green onions, cilantro, lime wedges and gluten free chili sauce for serving
Instructions
- Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Preheat oven to 425F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut tofu into 1 inch pieces, toss with tamari and set aside.
- Setup two shallow bowls: (1) Batter: Whisk together gluten free all purpose flour, non dairy milk, lime juice, salt and pepper until smooth.(2) Breading: Mix together unsweetened shredded coconut, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
- Next, toss the tofu cubes in the batter, use a spatula or spoon to toss and coat well.
- Then, add the tofu cubes to the shredded coconut mixture and gently press the tofu into the mixture, pressing on each side to ensure they stick. Place on the baking sheet when coated and spray cubes with cooking spray of choice.
- Bake tofu on the middle rack of the oven for 10 minutes, flip and bake for another 5-8 or until starting to turn golden brown.
- Serve with sweet chili sauce, a squeeze of lime juice, chopped green onions and a sprikle of cilantro.
Video
Notes
- If you want to make this tofu into a meal, it would be delicious as a tofu option in this Sesame-Crusted Tofu Bowl
- Alternatively, serve this with your choice of rice and favourite vegetable for a delicious lunch or dinner!
