Tofu Nuggets

If you’re a fan of crispy, bite-sized snacks that pack a punch of flavor, then you’re going to fall in love with these Tofu Nuggets. They’re crunchy on the outside, soft and juicy on the inside, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re a long-time tofu lover or just getting started, these nuggets are a perfect way to enjoy tofu in a fun and approachable way. With the right seasoning and a golden, crispy coating, you’ll be amazed at how satisfying these little bites can be. Trust me, these tofu nuggets are going to become your new go-to for a quick snack or a healthy side dish.

Why You’ll Love Tofu Nuggets

• Crispy & Crunchy: The outside has a perfect golden crunch that gives way to a soft and tender tofu center. It’s the perfect texture contrast that will keep you coming back for more!
• Flavor Packed: With the right seasoning and a savory coating, each nugget is full of flavor. No bland tofu here—just crispy, flavorful bites.
• Easy & Quick: These tofu nuggets come together in under 30 minutes! They’re perfect for a fast snack or a healthy addition to any meal.
• Customizable: Want them spicier? Add some cayenne pepper! Prefer a more classic flavor? Stick to garlic powder and paprika. The possibilities are endless.
• Vegan & Gluten-Free: These nuggets are plant-based and can easily be made gluten-free, so they’re a great option for a wide variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients

These tofu nuggets are made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Firm Tofu: The star of the show! Make sure to use firm tofu for the best texture, as it holds up well when baking or frying.
• Cornstarch: For a super crispy coating! Cornstarch helps achieve that crunchy, golden exterior that makes these nuggets irresistible.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for an extra crispy finish, but regular breadcrumbs will work just fine.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a nice salty, umami depth of flavor to the tofu.
• Garlic Powder: For that savory, garlicky aroma in every bite.
• Onion Powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
• Paprika: Gives a little smokiness and vibrant color.
• Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: For a crisp, golden exterior when baking or frying.
• Salt and Pepper: For basic seasoning to bring everything together.

(Note: The full ingredient list with exact measurements is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make these crispy, flavorful tofu nuggets? Here’s how to whip them up:

Step 1: Prep the Tofu

Start by pressing the tofu to remove any excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, then place something heavy on top (like a cast iron skillet) for about 15 minutes. This helps the tofu become firm and prevents it from becoming soggy when cooked.

Step 2: Cut the Tofu

Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into bite-sized cubes or nuggets—whatever shape you prefer. Aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly.

Step 3: Coat the Tofu

In one bowl, combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, pour the soy sauce. Dip each tofu piece into the soy sauce first, then coat it evenly in the cornstarch mixture. Repeat until all tofu pieces are coated.

Step 4: Cook the Nuggets

You can either bake or fry the tofu nuggets depending on your preference:

• To Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated tofu pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the tofu with olive oil or cooking spray to help it crisp up. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the nuggets are golden and crispy.
• To Fry: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu pieces and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy. Remove the tofu from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Serve your tofu nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauce—soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even BBQ sauce are all fantastic options. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or a side dish to your favorite meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 180
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 560mg
Total Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 12g
Vitamin A: 2% DV
Vitamin C: 0% DV
Calcium: 20% DV
Iron: 15% DV

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes (if frying) or 25-30 minutes (if baking)
• Total Time: 30-45 minutes

How to Serve Tofu Nuggets

These tofu nuggets are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick.
• In a Wrap: Add these nuggets to a wrap or sandwich with some fresh veggies and a drizzle of dressing for a complete meal.
• With Veggies: Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a light, nutritious meal.

Additional Tips

• Double the Batch: Make extra nuggets and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. They reheat well in the oven and stay crispy.
• Spicy Version: Add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy twist on these tofu nuggets.
• Air Fryer Option: You can also make these in an air fryer! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), arrange the nuggets in a single layer, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Use Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, simply swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or breadcrumbs.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use soft tofu for this recipe?
A1: It’s best to use firm tofu for these nuggets. Soft tofu doesn’t hold its shape as well and could become too mushy during cooking.

Q2: Can I bake these tofu nuggets without oil?
A2: Yes! You can bake them without oil, but they may not be as crispy. To achieve a crispier texture, you can lightly spray them with cooking spray or use a small amount of oil.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftover tofu nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.

Q4: Can I freeze these tofu nuggets?
A4: Yes! You can freeze the uncooked tofu nuggets. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake or fry them straight from the freezer (add a few extra minutes to the cook time).

Q5: Can I use a different kind of tofu?
A5: While firm tofu is ideal, extra-firm tofu will also work well. Just be sure to press out excess moisture for the best results.

Q6: Can I make these tofu nuggets spicier?
A6: Absolutely! You can add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the seasoning mixture to give these tofu nuggets some heat.

Q7: Can I use a different coating for the tofu nuggets?
A7: Yes! You can use crushed cornflakes, quinoa flakes, or even ground almonds for a gluten-free or alternative coating option.

Q8: What’s the best way to reheat these tofu nuggets?
A8: Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispy texture. Simply bake at 375°F for 5-10 minutes, or air fry for 3-4 minutes.

Q9: Can I use a different sauce to dip them in?
A9: Yes, feel free to dip them in your favorite sauce! BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or even a tangy mustard sauce work wonderfully with these nuggets.

Q10: How do I make these nuggets kid-friendly?
A10: For a milder version, reduce the amount of garlic and onion powder, and use a sweeter dipping sauce like honey mustard or ketchup.

Conclusion

These Tofu Nuggets are crispy, flavorful, and just the thing to satisfy your savory snack cravings. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or just enjoying them by yourself with a dipping sauce, they’re sure to be a hit. And the best part? They’re easy to make, packed with protein, and totally customizable. What are you waiting for? Go ahead and give these crispy bites a try—they might just become your new favorite snack!

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