The 3-ingredient crispy tofu I can't stop making

The 3-ingredient crispy tofu I can't stop making is a easy Vegan recipe that serves 4. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by Caitlin Shoemaker on YouTube.

Prep: 25 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 1 hr 5 min

Cost: $2.80 total, $0.70 per serving

Ingredients

  • 14 oz Extra‑Firm Tofu (pressed and cut into 1‑inch cubes)
  • 2 Tbsp Tamari (or low‑sodium soy sauce)
  • 2 Tbsp Nutritional Yeast (provides cheesy flavor and extra crispness)

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu

    Wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, place a heavy pan or weighted plate on top, and let it sit for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.

    Time: PT15M

  2. Cube the tofu

    After pressing, cut the tofu into bite‑sized 1‑inch cubes on a cutting board.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Season with tamari

    Place the tofu cubes in a mixing bowl, drizzle 2 Tbsp tamari over them, and gently toss until evenly coated.

    Time: PT3M

  4. Add nutritional yeast

    Sprinkle 2 Tbsp nutritional yeast over the seasoned tofu and toss again until the coating is uniform.

    Time: PT2M

  5. Arrange on silicone sheet

    Spread the tofu cubes in a single layer on a silicone baking sheet, leaving a little space between each piece.

    Time: PT2M

  6. First half of baking

    Place the sheet in a pre‑heated oven and bake for 15 minutes.

    Time: PT15M

    Temperature: 400°F

  7. Flip and finish baking

    Using tongs, flip each tofu cube, then bake for another 15 minutes until golden and crisp.

    Time: PT15M

    Temperature: 400°F

  8. Serve

    Remove from oven, let cool 2 minutes, then serve as a snack, salad topping, or bowl protein.

    Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
120
Protein
10 g
Carbohydrates
5 g
Fat
7 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten‑Free (with tamari), High‑Protein, Low‑Carb

Allergens: Soy, Gluten (if using regular soy sauce)

Last updated: April 15, 2026

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The 3-ingredient crispy tofu I can't stop making

Recipe by Caitlin Shoemaker

A simple, three‑ingredient vegan tofu that gets extra crispy in the oven. Pressed extra‑firm tofu is tossed with tamari and nutritional yeast, then baked on a silicone sheet until golden. Perfect as a snack, salad topping, or protein boost for any bowl.

EasyVeganServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
27m
Prep
30m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 7m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$2.80
Total cost
$0.70
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Pressing the tofu to remove moisture
  • Flipping the tofu halfway through baking

Safety Warnings

  • Use oven mitts when handling the hot silicone sheet.
  • Be careful when flipping tofu to avoid burns from hot oil or sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of tofu in Asian cuisine?

A

Tofu originated in China over 2,000 years ago and became a staple throughout East Asia due to its affordability, versatility, and high protein content. It spread to Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia, where it is used in everything from soups to stir‑fries.

cultural
Q

How is baked tofu traditionally served in Japanese or Korean meals?

A

In Japanese cuisine, baked tofu (yaki‑tofu) is often served with a soy‑based glaze and rice, while in Korean cuisine it appears in bibimbap or as a side dish (dubu‑jorim) simmered in a spicy sauce.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations feature tofu as a main dish in East Asian cultures?

A

Tofu is commonly served during Buddhist festivals and vegetarian celebrations because it symbolizes purity and the earth. It also appears in Lunar New Year meals as a symbol of prosperity.

cultural
Q

What are authentic traditional ingredients for crispy tofu versus acceptable vegan substitutes?

A

Traditional crispy tofu uses soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sometimes potato starch. In this recipe, tamari and nutritional yeast provide umami and a cheesy crust while keeping the dish fully vegan.

cultural
Q

What other vegan dishes pair well with this crispy baked tofu?

A

Pair it with grain bowls, quinoa salads, roasted vegetables, or use it as a protein topping for vegan ramen or sushi rolls.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making crispy baked tofu?

A

Common mistakes include not pressing the tofu enough, overcrowding the baking sheet, and skipping the flip halfway through. Each of these can lead to soggy rather than crispy cubes.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use tamari instead of regular soy sauce?

A

Tamari is typically gluten‑free and has a richer, smoother flavor, which enhances the umami without adding excess salt. It also aligns with the recipe’s gluten‑free goal.

technical
Q

Can I make this crispy baked tofu ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, bake the tofu, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a hot skillet for a few minutes to restore crispness.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the tofu is done cooking?

A

The tofu should be golden‑brown on the outside, with a firm, slightly crunchy crust while remaining tender inside. A slight caramelized scent indicates it’s perfectly done.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Caitlin Shoemaker specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Caitlin Shoemaker focuses on simple, wholesome plant‑based meals, offering quick tutorials that emphasize minimal ingredients and accessible techniques for home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Caitlin Shoemaker's approach to vegan cooking differ from other vegan channels?

A

Caitlin Shoemaker emphasizes ultra‑simple three‑ingredient recipes and everyday pantry staples, whereas many vegan channels often incorporate more elaborate sauces or specialty ingredients.

channel

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