How To Cook Frozen Tofu

5 from 11 votes

How to cook frozen tofu to make crispy tofu cubes without thawing. Follow this quick and easy method for the best crispy tofu every time.

Prep Time5

Cook Time35

Total Time40

Course: Side Dish or Main, Snack

Cuisine: Vegan

Diet: Vegan, Vegetarian

Servings: servings

Calories: 198kcal

14 to 16 ounces extra firm tofu or super firm tofu
2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce (preferably reduced sodium)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 ½ tablespoons nutritional yeast or 2 teaspoons arrowroot powder
1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil (or 1 tablespoon of additional tamari or soy sauce)

Freeze: Place the block of tofu in the freezer. When ready to use, remove the tofu form the freezer. Remove the packaging.
Boil: Bring a medium saucepan of water to boil. Slip the tofu into the boiling water and simmer over medium-low heat for 7 minutes. Flip the block of tofu over and simmer for about 7 minutes more, or until the middle of the block is about as soft as the outer edges when pressed.
Make the marinade: Meanwhile, whisk the tamari, garlic powder, nutritional yeast, oil, or additional tamari in a large bowl.
Preheat the oven to 400ºF.
Pat dry: Transfer the block to a clean dish towel or paper towel using a spider or large slotted spoon. Dry the tofu and press it gently to remove excess water.
Cut the tofu into about 1 ½-inch cubes. Transfer the tofu to the marinade and toss gently until evenly coasted.
Bake: Spread the tofu onto a large non-stick baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until crispy, tossing the pieces halfway.

- To check if the tofu is thawed after boiling, prod the center of the block. It should not feel solid.
- For the crispiest tofu, gently press the block with a clean dish towel to remove excess water before cutting. Place the marinated cubes onto a baking sheet with enough space for the hot air to pass in between.
- Oil is not required, but a little goes a long way for getting your tofu extra crispy.
- Use a non-stick or lined baking sheet to prevent the tofu cubes from sticking.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftover crispy tofu in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on an air fryer or oven at 350ºF, or in the microwave, until warmed through.