Bad Manners-Style Crispy Tofu

Extra-firm tofu is lightly pressed, marinated in a punchy soy-tamari, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic mixture, then seared or high-heat baked until deeply browned and crisp.

Great

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Prep the tofu: Use 1 block of extra-firm tofu. Drain it, press it lightly for 5–10 minutes to get the extra water out, and either chop into cubes or aggressively hand-tear it into irregular jagged chunks for better sauce-gripping edges.

Step 2

Make a punchy marinade: Whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1–2 tsp grated fresh ginger, and a minced garlic clove.

Step 3

Marinate fast: Toss the tofu in the sauce and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes.

Step 4

Sear or high-heat bake: Heat a skillet with neutral oil over medium-high, or bake at 425°F (220°C). Cook undisturbed until deeply browned and slightly charred in spots—don’t be scared of a little dark crispiness; that’s where the flavor lives.