Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets
Extra-firm tofu is pressed, cut into nugget-sized pieces, coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust, and baked at high heat until golden and crisp on the outside while staying tender inside. The technique mirrors what makes chicken nuggets appealing, using plant-based protein instead. They bake in about 25 minutes and work as a snack, appetizer, or main with a dipping sauce.
Equipment
- 1 Oven
- 1 Mixing bowls
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Parchment paper
- 1 Tongs
Ingredients
- 1 block extra-firm tofu pressed for at least 15 minutes
- 1 cup unsweetened plant milk such as almond or soy milk
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar used to create a vegan buttermilk effect
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika for added depth and smoky flavor
- ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs preferably whole-wheat for extra crunch
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast adds umami and slight cheesiness
- 1 tablespoon olive oil optional, for spraying on top before baking to add color
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare tofu: Press extra-firm tofu for 15–20 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut into bite-sized nugget shapes (about 1-inch cubes).
- Make vegan buttermilk: In a small bowl, mix plant milk with apple cider vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes until slightly curdled.
- Prepare flour coating: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Prepare breadcrumb coating: In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with nutritional yeast.
- Triple-dip method: Working in batches, dip each tofu piece into the flour mixture, then the buttermilk, and finally coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mix. Place onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Optional: Lightly spray or brush olive oil on top of the nuggets for enhanced golden crispiness.
- Bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the nuggets are golden brown and crispy on both sides.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- Air frying works well too—cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15–17 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Optional seasonings like cayenne or ranch spice blend can change the flavor profile.
- Pressing tofu is crucial—use a weighted plate or tofu press for best results.
Nutrition
Calories: 354kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 560mgPotassium: 398mgFiber: 2gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 133IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 85mgIron: 4mg
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