Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets bring a nostalgic comfort food experience, but with a delicious vegetarian twist. These bite-sized nuggets are coated in a garlic and herb seasoning mix, then rolled in potato starch, breadcrumbs, and crushed fried onions before being baked to golden perfection. The result is an irresistible crispy exterior with a soft and flavorful interior, making them a fantastic alternative to traditional chicken nuggets. Whether you’re a tofu enthusiast or just looking for a plant-based meal option, these nuggets will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a snack, or even a fun addition to your game-day spread, these tofu nuggets can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. From homemade ranch dressing to spicy curry ketchup, they are versatile and adaptable, allowing you to customize the flavors to suit your taste. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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14 oz. extra-firm tofu
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1/2 tsp dried basil
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1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp kosher salt, plus more
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1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
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1/3 cup potato starch or cornstarch
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3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
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3/4 cup store-bought fried onions
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1 cup plant-based milk (e.g., almond milk)
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Cooking spray
For the Curry Ketchup:
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1/2 cup ketchup
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2 tsp curry powder
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2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
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1/2 tsp chili powder
For Serving:
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Store-bought or homemade ranch dressing
Directions:
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Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place 3 layers of paper towels on a plate, then place the tofu on top. Cover with 3 more layers of towels, and place a heavy can or skillet on top to press out the excess moisture. Let it press for at least 1 hour, up to 3 hours. (You can use a tofu press if available.)
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Tear the tofu into 1-inch chunks and transfer them to a large bowl. Sprinkle with basil, black pepper, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne. Gently toss with a rubber spatula until well-coated. Sprinkle with potato starch and toss again until evenly coated.
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In a food processor or spice mill, pulse the panko breadcrumbs and fried onions until finely crushed and well-mixed, about 10 to 15 pulses.
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Pour the plant-based milk into a shallow bowl. Transfer the breadcrumb mixture to another shallow bowl. Dip each tofu piece into the milk, then toss in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Place the coated tofu pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray the tofu with cooking spray, turn them over, and spray the other side.
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Bake the tofu nuggets for 35 to 40 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
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While the tofu nuggets are baking, make the curry ketchup by combining ketchup, curry powder, Worcestershire sauce, and chili powder in a small bowl.
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Once the tofu nuggets are done, season them with a pinch of salt and transfer them to a platter. Serve with ranch dressing and curry ketchup on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets: The Perfect Vegetarian Snack
If you’re a fan of crispy, golden-brown snacks but want to avoid the usual deep-fried options, Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets are the answer. This vegetarian-friendly recipe takes tofu a commonly underappreciated protein and transforms it into a crispy, crunchy, and flavorful nugget that can easily become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a tofu enthusiast or someone looking for a healthier alternative to classic chicken nuggets, this recipe offers a plant-based version that will surprise you with its satisfying crunch and savory taste.
The Versatility of Tofu: A Plant-Based Superstar
Tofu is often seen as a bland, texture-heavy protein source that needs a lot of seasoning to make it appetizing. However, when prepared properly, tofu can be transformed into a delightful, flavorful dish. The key to achieving this is understanding how to press and prepare tofu correctly. Pressing the tofu helps to remove excess moisture, which is essential for achieving the crispy texture that makes these tofu nuggets so irresistible.
One of the reasons tofu is such a great plant-based protein is its versatility. It absorbs the flavors of whatever seasonings or marinades it is cooked with, making it the perfect canvas for a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re making a stir-fry, a scramble, or baking it into crispy nuggets, tofu can easily be adapted to suit any flavor profile. Additionally, tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein and is rich in calcium and iron, making it an important component of a healthy diet.
The Secret to the Perfect Tofu Nugget: Crispiness
What sets this tofu nugget recipe apart from others is the secret ingredient that guarantees a perfect crispy exterior: potato starch (or cornstarch). The potato starch works wonders in giving the tofu a light, crunchy coating that rivals even the crispiest deep-fried foods, but with none of the excess oil or heaviness.
The tofu is first pressed to remove the excess water, making it firm and ready for seasoning. After tearing it into chunks, the pieces are tossed in a flavorful seasoning mix, including dried basil, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and freshly ground black pepper. The potato starch is then added to help create that crucial crispy exterior. Once the tofu is coated in the starch, it’s dipped in plant-based milk before being rolled in a mixture of breadcrumbs and crushed fried onions. This breading creates an extra layer of crunch, ensuring that each bite of tofu is satisfying without being greasy.
Unlike traditional deep-fried recipes, which can leave the exterior greasy and soggy, the baking process helps the tofu nuggets achieve a golden-brown, crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. This makes the tofu nuggets not only lighter but also healthier. Baking also eliminates the need for flipping the tofu in hot oil, making the entire cooking process easier and cleaner.
The Dipping Sauce: A Flavorful Finishing Touch
No nugget recipe is complete without a dipping sauce, and these crispy tofu nuggets are no exception. The curry ketchup adds a unique and flavorful twist to the dish. This tangy and slightly spicy sauce, made with curry powder, Worcestershire sauce, and chili powder, complements the crispy tofu perfectly, giving it an extra layer of flavor. It’s a fun, creative alternative to the usual ketchup or ranch dressing, and it’s quick and easy to prepare.
In addition to the curry ketchup, you can also pair these tofu nuggets with a classic homemade or store-bought ranch dressing, which offers a cool, creamy contrast to the spiced nuggets. The pairing options are endless, so feel free to experiment with your favorite sauces, such as barbecue, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
A Meal for Every Occasion
These crispy tofu nuggets are incredibly versatile, making them the perfect dish for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a game-day gathering, preparing a light dinner, or simply looking for a healthy snack, these tofu nuggets fit the bill. They’re perfect for adults and kids alike, providing a healthier, plant-based alternative to traditional chicken nuggets without sacrificing flavor or texture.
For a quick weeknight dinner, serve the tofu nuggets with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. The crispiness of the nuggets pairs well with any light, refreshing side. If you’re preparing them for a party or gathering, set up a dipping sauce station with various sauces to let your guests create their perfect combination of flavors. This interactive, fun way of serving the tofu nuggets will make them even more memorable.
The Benefits of Choosing Tofu
Tofu is not only a great protein option for vegetarians and vegans, but it also has several health benefits that make it an excellent addition to anyone’s diet. For one, tofu is packed with protein, offering about 10 grams of protein per 4-ounce serving. It is also low in calories, making it a good option for those looking to maintain or lose weight without compromising on nutritional value.
Additionally, tofu contains essential minerals like iron and calcium, which are vital for bone health and maintaining strong muscles. The high content of isoflavones, a type of plant estrogen, has been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved heart health and better hormonal balance.
A Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Choice
In addition to its numerous health benefits, tofu is also an environmentally friendly protein source. Unlike animal-based proteins, tofu production has a much lower environmental footprint in terms of land use, water consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. For those looking to reduce their environmental impact while still enjoying a satisfying meal, tofu is an ideal choice.
By opting for plant-based recipes like crispy tofu nuggets, you’re contributing to a more sustainable food system. The reduction in meat consumption not only helps mitigate environmental harm but also promotes ethical and humane treatment of animals.
Conclusion:
Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks, offering the same satisfying crunch without the excess oil. The secret to their crispy texture lies in the use of potato starch and a flavorful seasoning mix, making them a unique and savory treat. Paired with a tangy dipping sauce, these tofu nuggets are sure to become a favorite in your household, whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or a full meal.
Not only do they taste great, but they also provide numerous health benefits, thanks to tofu’s rich protein content, antioxidants, and essential minerals. By incorporating these tofu nuggets into your diet, you’ll be choosing a plant-based, sustainable, and nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.