ASIAN STICKY TOFU [OIL FREE]

Ingredients:

• 1 block of firm tofu (14-16 oz), drained and pressed
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave syrup
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (ensure it’s vegan)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar, maple syrup (or agave), tomato paste, hoisin sauce, cornstarch (or arrowroot powder), minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Whisk the mixture until smooth and well combined.
4. Add the tofu cubes to the sauce mixture, gently tossing them to coat evenly. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Place the marinated tofu cubes on the baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
6. Bake the tofu in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until it becomes crispy and golden, flipping the tofu halfway through the baking time for even cooking.
7. While the tofu is baking, you can take the remaining marinade and heat it in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly, forming a sticky glaze. Remove from heat.
8. Once the tofu is done baking, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a bowl. Pour the sticky glaze over the tofu and toss gently to coat all the pieces.
9. Optionally, garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation.
10. Serve the Asian Sticky Tofu with steamed rice, quinoa, or your favorite stir-fried vegetables for a delicious and satisfying vegan meal.

Enjoy the flavorful and oil-free goodness of this Asian-inspired vegan dish!