Description
- Tofu Nuggets are a crispy, golden-brown, and flavorful plant-based alternative to traditional chicken nuggets. Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to add more plant-based protein to their diet, these tofu nuggets are seasoned to perfection and served with your favorite dipping sauce. They’re an easy, delicious, and healthy snack or meal!
Ingredients
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For the Tofu Nuggets:
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1 block firm tofu, drained and pressed
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free option)
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1/2 cup cornstarch
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, etc.)
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
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2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
For the Dipping Sauce (optional):
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1/4 cup ketchup
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
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Instructions
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For the Tofu Nuggets:
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces).
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In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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In another shallow bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk and soy sauce.
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In a third shallow bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
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Dip each tofu cube into the flour mixture, then the milk mixture, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs. Repeat until all tofu cubes are coated.
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Arrange the coated tofu nuggets on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced out evenly.
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Drizzle the tofu nuggets with olive oil to help them crisp up during baking.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu nuggets are golden brown and crispy.
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While the tofu nuggets are baking, mix together the dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
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Serve the crispy tofu nuggets with the dipping sauce, or your favorite dip.
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Notes
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If you prefer a gluten-free option, use chickpea flour for the coating and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
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For an extra crispy texture, you can pan-fry the tofu nuggets instead of baking them. Just heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the nuggets for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
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These tofu nuggets can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe (about 3-4 nuggets)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0g