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Vegan: Spicy Oven-Fried Tofu

Source of Recipe

From "Southern Vegan" by Lauren Hartmann


Recipe Introduction

"How do you get that most perfect tofu you've been longing for—tender and flavorful on the inside, extremely crispy and crunchy on the outside—without frying? Well, stick with me, kid! I'm here for you and so is this oven-fried tofu. It's the perfect centerpiece for all your southern feasts. I love to serve this tofu with Creamy Garlic-Truffle Grits, Chili Smashed Potato Salad and Dill Pickle Pasta Salad. Go ahead, put out a big ol' bucket of this tofu—you'll be the most popular one at the party!"

List of Ingredients

â—¦ 1 (15-ounce) block extra-firm tofu, pressed
â—¦ 2 cups nondairy milk
â—¦ ¼ cup plus 1 teaspoon hot sauce, divided
â—¦ 2 teaspoons agave syrup
â—¦ 2 teaspoons salt, divided
â—¦ 1 ¼ cups cornstarch
â—¦ 1 teaspoon chili powder
â—¦ 3 cups cornflakes, crushed, gluten-free if desired
â—¦ â…“ cup pure maple syrup


Recipe

Cut the block of tofu into 6 to 8 large triangles. In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, ¼ cup of the hot sauce, the agave syrup and 1 teaspoon of the salt. Put the tofu triangles into the bowl and let them marinate for at least one hour (the longer, the better).

Preheat the oven to 400° F. Spray a medium baking sheet with nonstick spray. Line up two large bowls next to the bowl containing the tofu, to create a dredging station. To the first bowl, add the cornstarch, the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt and the chili powder. Stir to combine. Place the crushed cornflakes in the second bowl.

Take a piece of tofu out of the marinade, put the tofu into the cornstarch and coat it completely. Dip the tofu back into the marinade, coating it completely. Dredge it again in the cornstarch, coat it again in the marinade, then coat in the cornflakes. Press the cornflakes onto the tofu to coat it completely. Place the tofu on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with all of the tofu pieces. Spray the top of the tofu with nonstick spray.

Bake the tofu for 15 minutes, then flip it and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tofu is crispy.

While the tofu is baking, whisk together the maple syrup and remaining 1 teaspoon of hot sauce in a small bowl. When the tofu is done, drizzle the tofu with the spicy maple syrup and serve immediately.

Serves 4