Umami Marinade: Elevate Your Tofu Game

There are few things in this world that bring people together like a great meal. And if there's one thing that all foodies can agree on, it's the power of crispy, flavorful tofu. 

This recipe for crispy garbanzo tofu is a vegan game-changer, with a complex umami marinade that infuses the tofu with a depth of flavor you won't find in any store-bought product. Coated in a garbanzo bean flour mixture, these tofu slices will have even the most skeptical carnivores reaching for seconds. This recipe is the perfect addition to any meal, whether you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at your next dinner party. So tie on your apron, grab your Umami Everyday, and get ready to experience tofu like you've never tasted it before.

What you need:

• 1 block extra firm tofu (16oz)

Marinade

• 5 Tbsp Umami Everyday Sauce (Umami Reserve for a spicy version)
• ¾ cup tamari or soy sauce
• 3 Tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 4 cloves of garlic
• 2 tsp fresh chopped ginger
• ¾ cup lighter beer (lager, ale, kolsch)
• Fresh ground pepper

Flour Mixture

• 1 cup garbanzo bean flour
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• Black pepper

Directions:

1. Mix the marinade ingredients well in a flat container. Cut the tofu into ~ 1 inch slices or cubes (your preference). Press out excess water from tofu into paper towel or cloth. Place tofu in marinade and cover well. Marinate overnight (or at least 2 hours if pressed for time).
2. Preheat oven to to 425℉. Meanwhile, mix all dry ingredients for the flour mixture. Take marinated tofu slices and cover completely with garbanzo bean flour mixture. Leave excess marinade for dredging the flour. 
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place tofu on top so that none of the pieces are touching each other. If a convection oven is not accessible, bake a single baking sheet at a time for even cooking. Bake for 8 minutes, flip the tofu, and bake for another 5-10 minutes until tofu is crispy on the outside. 
4. Serve immediately for best results!