Serves: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

Crispy Tofu

– 1½ pounds extra-firm tofu
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Guava-Coconut Sauce

– 1 cup ripe guava purée
– ½ cup canned coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon water

Garnish

– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
– Lime wedges

Instructions

1. Drain the tofu and wrap it in several layers of paper towels.

2. Place a heavy plate or skillet on top of the tofu and press for 15–20 minutes to remove excess moisture.

3. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

4. Cut the tofu into approximately 1-inch cubes.

5. Place the tofu in a large bowl.

6. Add the soy sauce, oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Toss gently.

7. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu and toss again until evenly coated.

8. Arrange the tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each piece.

9. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through, until crisp and golden.

10. While the tofu cooks, combine the guava purée, coconut milk, lime juice, soy sauce, maple syrup, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes in a saucepan.

11. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

12. Mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water until smooth.

13. Slowly whisk the cornstarch mixture into the simmering guava sauce.

14. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.

15. Remove from the heat.

16. Add the crispy tofu to the sauce and gently toss until coated.

17. Transfer to a serving dish.

18. Garnish with cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds.

19. Serve immediately with jasmine rice or vegetables.

Tip: Add the tofu to the sauce immediately before serving so it retains as much crispness as possible.