This Cajun Tofu is an easy baked tofu recipe that can be used a number of different ways!
Let’s get spicy.
One of the biggest complaints I hear about tofu is that it doesn’t taste like anything. Today we’re going to change that, big time!
Tofu is basically soybean curd, and the reason it doesn’t taste like much out of the package is because it usually comes packed in water.
You’ll need to press out most of that water in order to have firm, flavorful tofu. Check out this article if you need help on how to dry out tofu!
After pressing out the water we’re going to replace it with a flavorful marinade. It’s hard for me to stray away from my best tofu recipe, but when I do I still want lots of flavor!
Cajun spice mixes can vary greatly. I recommend finding one that doesn’t list salt as one of the first ingredients because the ones that do tend to contain a LOT of it and do not taste all that great.
While this recipe does take a bit of time to make, every step is super easy and pretty hands-off. You can even make it ahead of time and heat it up for dinner when you get home.
My recipe for cajun tofu is already vegan, and you can keep it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and choosing a dedicated gluten-free spice mix.
This recipe for cajun tofu can be easily customized! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Swap the cajun seasoning for your other favorite dried herb seasoning blend to taste
- Serve over rice, fetuccini alfredo, or a salad
- Add to a sandwich or wrap
- Fry the tofu in one tablespoon of coconut oil over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side instead of baking
- Roll marinated tofu in cornstarch before baking for extra crispiness
Looking for more tofu recipes?
If you make this recipe be sure to rate it, leave a comment, or tag #theliveinkitchen on Instagram!
Cajun Tofu
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1.5 teaspoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning
- 14 ounces extra firm tofu, drained, pressed, and cut into about 12 strips
Instructions
- In a shallow dish (I used an 8×8 baking pan), combine the olive oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, and cajun seasoning.
- Add the tofu and turn each piece over to coat it in the marinade. Arrange the tofu in a single layer and let marinate at least 15 minutes, turning once.
- Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Line a baking sheet with parchment or aluminum foil.
- Transfer the tofu to the prepared baking sheet making sure you leave room between each piece so they’re not touching. Bake 45-60 minutes, turning once, or until browned and crisp on the outside.
Celien says
Hi! This looks amazing and I will try this recipe for sure. Is it possible to freeze a portion of the tofu after it has been marinated or would that mess with the texture somehow?
Lindsay Moe says
I have never frozen tofu, but I’ve heard a lot of people say it actually improves the texture. However, I would recommend freezing it before marinating, if possible.
theenemytoad says
Thank you for the recipe! I thought it was good, but needs more flavor for my taste. Next time I will try with 2 tbsps. tamari and and 1 1/2 tsps. Cajun seasoning.
Jasmine says
The flavor was a little off probablt because I only had honey so used it in place of the maple syrup, but still came out really good. I convinced my family that pressed and baked Cajun tofu is a great alternative to chicken
Madeleine says
I totally gonna use this to make tofu gumbo!