Description
Crispy and flavorful baked tofu nuggets perfect as a healthy snack or appetizer. These tofu nuggets are coated in a seasoned flour and breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection, served with a tangy homemade dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Tofu Nuggets:
- 1 block firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free option)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, etc.)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the tofu nuggets.
- Prepare Tofu: Drain and press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes approximately 1 inch in size for even cooking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the seasoned flour mixture.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another shallow bowl, whisk together the unsweetened plant-based milk and soy sauce to make the wet dipping mixture.
- Prepare Breadcrumbs: Place the breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl ready for coating the tofu cubes.
- Coat Tofu Cubes: Dip each tofu cube first into the flour mixture, then into the milk mixture, and finally coat it evenly with breadcrumbs. Repeat the steps for all tofu cubes to ensure they are fully coated for a crispy texture.
- Arrange for Baking: Arrange the coated tofu nuggets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to allow for even crisping.
- Add Olive Oil: Drizzle the tofu nuggets evenly with olive oil to enhance browning and crispiness during baking.
- Bake Nuggets: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through cooking to achieve golden brown and crispy sides.
- Prepare Dipping Sauce: While the nuggets bake, combine the ketchup, soy sauce, and optional maple syrup in a small bowl to create the dipping sauce.
- Serve: Serve the crispy baked tofu nuggets warm alongside the dipping sauce or your favorite dip for a delicious and satisfying snack.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu well is essential to remove moisture and help the coating stick better.
- You can use chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs.
- To make the sauce spicier, add a dash of hot sauce or chili powder.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
