Whether you eat a vegan diet or simply like plant-based foods, you'll want to try these crispy vegan tofu nuggets. Made with marinated tofu and a tasty bread crumb coating, this recipe is perfect when you're craving finger food. Plus, compared to store-bought meatless nuggets, this version is inexpensive — and easy to customize.
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Marinated Tofu
Things You'll Need
14-ounce block extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1. Make marinade
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce and spices. Whisk well.
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2. Cut tofu
Slice the tofu into small, bite-size squares.
3. Marinate tofu
Transfer the tofu to a dish. Add the marinade, making sure to coat each piece of tofu. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Batter and Crust Mixture
Things You'll Need
1 cup plain, unsweetened, plant-based milk
1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Vegetable or grape-seed oil (or other neutral oil)
Tip
You can instead use seasoned bread crumbs and skip the additional spices.
1. Mix liquids
After the tofu has marinated, prepare the batter and crust mixture.
Start by combining the milk and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl and whisk well.
2. Mix batter
In a separate bowl, add the flour and cornstarch. Slowly add the milk while stirring until the mixture resembles thick pancake batter. Set it aside for 10 to 15 minutes.
Combine the bread crumbs and spices in a separate bowl or dish.
Crispy Vegan Tofu Nuggets
Things You'll Need
Marinated tofu
Batter
Bread crumb mixture
1. Dip nuggets
Using tongs, dip each piece of marinated tofu into the batter.
Toss the battered tofu in the bread crumbs until fully coated.
3. Fry breaded nuggets
Over medium heat, add 1/4 to 1/2 inch of oil to a medium skillet. Cook the tofu until golden brown, about 2 minutes on each side. Rotate and cook the sides until golden brown if needed.
You'll likely need to work in batches. As you cook the remaining tofu, add more oil as necessary.
Transfer the cooked nuggets to a plate lined with a paper towel.
Serve with ketchup, honey mustard or your favorite sauce. Yum!
