How long does it take to bake tofu?

You don't "bake" tofu in the traditional sense like you would a cake or bread. Tofu is a soft, absorbent food that needs to be pressed and marinated to achieve a desirable texture and flavor.

Here's a breakdown of how long it takes to prepare tofu for different cooking methods:

Pressing:

* Traditional Pressing: 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the type of tofu and the desired firmness.

* Using a Tofu Press: 15-30 minutes.

Marination:

* Basic Marinades: 30 minutes to 1 hour.

* More Flavorful Marinades: 2-4 hours or overnight.

Cooking:

* Baking: Once pressed and marinated, tofu can be baked in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, depending on the desired level of browning and crispiness.

* Pan-frying: 5-10 minutes per side in a hot pan with oil.

* Stir-frying: A few minutes, just until heated through.

So, the total time for preparing tofu for cooking can vary depending on the method and desired outcome.

Here's a helpful tip: For a crispier baked tofu, bake it on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to allow air to circulate and help the tofu brown.