The BEST Marinated Tofu

This marinated orange ginger tofu is bold, flavorful, and irresistibly satisfying. Baked until golden and infused with a vibrant marinade of citrus, soy, garlic, and ginger, every bite delivers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and tangy. Whether served over rice, noodles, or tossed into a salad, this tofu dish is a plant-based favorite you’ll return to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This marinated tofu is a flavor bomb with minimal effort. The marinade is simple but packs a punch with orange juice, soy sauce, and fresh aromatics. It’s perfect for meal prep, adaptable to any cuisine, and naturally vegan and gluten-free (with gluten-free soy sauce). Baking the tofu makes it hands-off and yields a chewy, caramelized finish that’s ideal for bowls, wraps, or stir-fries.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 (16-ounce) package of extra firm tofu

• 1 cup fresh orange juice

• ¼ cup rice vinegar

• ⅓ cup soy sauce

• ⅓ cup vegetable oil

• 4 teaspoons sesame oil

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon grated ginger

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

• ¼ cup chopped green onion

• ¼ cup chopped cilantro

Directions

1. Slice the tofu lengthwise into slabs, then cut each slab into 2 triangles. You should get between 8–16 pieces total.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, vegetable oil, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to make the marinade.

3. Arrange the tofu in a single layer in a glass baking dish. Pour the marinade over the tofu, ensuring it is fully submerged.

4. Sprinkle the green onions and cilantro evenly over the top.

5. Let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (160°C).

7. Carefully pour off some of the marinade so the tofu is only halfway submerged.

8. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the tofu is golden brown and most of the marinade has been absorbed.

9. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or vegetables, or enjoy chilled in salads or wraps.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 40 minutes (includes marinating)
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Pan-fried version: Instead of baking, pan-fry the marinated tofu for a crispier texture.

• Tofu cubes: Cut the tofu into cubes instead of triangles for a different presentation or texture.

• Add sweetness: Stir a tablespoon of maple syrup or agave into the marinade for extra sweetness.

• Spicier version: Increase the red pepper flakes or add sriracha or chili garlic sauce.

• Herb swaps: Use Thai basil or mint instead of cilantro for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Store the cooked tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing:
While tofu can be frozen before marinating (for a chewier texture), it’s best not to freeze after baking in marinade, as the texture may change.

Reheating:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. It can also be eaten cold in grain bowls or salads.

FAQs

Can I use regular firm tofu instead of extra firm?

Yes, but extra firm tofu holds its shape better. If using firm tofu, press it thoroughly to remove excess moisture.

How long should I marinate the tofu?

At least 30 minutes is sufficient, but marinating overnight will give you the most flavor.

Do I need to press the tofu?

It’s not required for extra firm tofu, but pressing it will help it absorb more marinade and improve the texture.

Can I make this oil-free?

You can reduce or omit the oil, though the texture may be drier and less rich. Try replacing some of the oil with additional orange juice or broth.

What does orange juice do in the marinade?

Orange juice adds natural sweetness, acidity, and brightness, which balances the saltiness of the soy sauce and the richness of the oils.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh orange juice is best for flavor, but a good-quality bottled juice with no added sugar can work in a pinch.

What should I serve with this tofu?

Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, noodles, or alongside stir-fried veggies or in wraps.

Can I reuse the marinade?

Since it’s been in contact with raw tofu, it’s best not to reuse it unless you bring it to a full boil first.

Does this tofu get crispy?

Baking gives it a lightly chewy, golden texture. For crispier tofu, finish it under the broiler for a few minutes or pan-fry after baking.

Conclusion

The BEST Marinated Tofu (Ginger Tofu) is everything you want in a plant-based protein—flavorful, easy, and endlessly versatile. With a bold marinade and a simple baking method, this tofu transforms into a delicious main or side that fits into any meal. Perfect for weeknights or meal prep, it’s a dish that delivers comfort and flavor every time.

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