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Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Tofu with Tangy Lemon Sauce Recipe

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4.2 from 44 reviews

This crispy baked lemon pepper tofu is a delightful vegan dinner that combines tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors. It's naturally gluten free, easy to prepare, and pairs perfectly with steamed vegetables and rice for a wholesome meal.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Tofu

  • 1 16 ounce block extra firm tofu
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ¼ cup gluten free breadcrumbs (substitute regular breadcrumbs if needed)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning

Sauce

  • Juice and zest from 1 lemon
  • ½ cup vegetable broth
  • 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt or more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Tofu: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the tofu from the package and drain off the excess liquid. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes and place them in a bowl.
  2. Coat the Tofu: Toss the tofu cubes with soy sauce or tamari. Then add cornstarch, gluten free breadcrumbs, and lemon pepper seasoning. Toss until all the cubes are well coated.
  3. Bake the Tofu: Arrange the coated tofu cubes evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Make the Sauce: While the tofu bakes, whisk together lemon juice and zest, vegetable broth, honey or maple syrup, black pepper, salt, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and cornstarch in a small pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until it thickens, whisking regularly. Remove from heat and let it thicken further.
  5. Toss and Serve: Once the tofu is done baking, remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Transfer the tofu to a bowl and gently toss with the prepared lemon pepper sauce. Serve immediately with rice and your favorite steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Notes

  • The cornstarch can be substituted with arrowroot or tapioca starch for a similar effect.
  • For a grain-free option, substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour, though the texture will be somewhat different.
  • Leftover tofu is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preferred spice level.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free