Tofu Tray Bake

Instructions for Making Tofu Tray Bake

1. Prepare the Tofu

Start by draining the tofu and pressing out any excess liquid. You can do this by wrapping the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and placing something heavy on top, like a can or a skillet, for about 15 minutes. Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into cubes or strips, depending on your preference.

2. Marinate the Tofu

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the cubed tofu to the bowl and gently toss to coat. Let the tofu marinate for at least 10-15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

3. Prep the Vegetables

While the tofu is marinating, peel and cube the sweet potato and chop the remaining vegetables (red bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion) into bite-sized pieces. You can use any combination of vegetables you like, such as carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.

4. Assemble the Tray Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking tray, arrange the marinated tofu and the chopped vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil and toss everything together to ensure that all the ingredients are well-coated in oil and seasoning. You can add an extra sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a bit more smoked paprika if desired.

5. Roast the Tray Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 30-40 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown and crispy and the vegetables are tender. Toss the ingredients halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is roasted to perfection, remove the tray bake from the oven and give it a final toss. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the tray bake on its own or pair it with a side of quinoa, rice, or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for Perfect Tofu Tray Bake

• Press the Tofu Well: Pressing the tofu properly is key to achieving that crispy texture. The drier the tofu, the better it will crisp up when roasted.
• Customize the Veggies: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and beets are great additions, or you can use cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli.
• Add Extra Flavor: For more depth of flavor, you can drizzle the roasted tofu and vegetables with tahini, a squeeze of lemon, or your favorite dressing after roasting. A bit of hot sauce or chili flakes can also add some heat if you like spice.
• Make It Extra Crispy: If you like your tofu extra crispy, you can toss the tofu cubes in a bit of cornstarch before baking. This will create an even crunchier coating as it cooks.
• Meal Prep: This dish is great for meal prep. Simply store the roasted tofu and vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the oven for the best texture.

Why You’ll Love Tofu Tray Bake

• Easy and Low Maintenance: With just a little prep work and one pan to clean, this recipe is as easy as it gets. It’s the perfect option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of smoky paprika, garlic, and cumin makes the tofu and vegetables deliciously savory and satisfying.
• Flexible and Versatile: This recipe can be customized to fit any dietary needs or preferences. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking for a wholesome meal, this tray bake has got you covered.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish is not only tasty the first time, but it also makes amazing leftovers. The flavors meld together even more after a day or two, making it a great option for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

The Tofu Tray Bake is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful, filling meal. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to fit your tastes and dietary needs, while still being quick and easy to make. Whether you’re new to cooking with tofu or looking for a new go-to recipe for plant-based meals, this tray bake is a must-try.

With crispy, marinated tofu and roasted vegetables, this dish is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Serve it up for dinner, lunch, or even as a make-ahead meal for the week. Enjoy the flavors of a well-seasoned, nourishing dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and full — without all the hassle!