Description
These crispy tofu nuggets are a delicious plant-based alternative to traditional chicken nuggets. Coated in a seasoned flour and breadcrumb mixture, then baked to golden perfection, they offer a satisfying crunch with every bite. Paired with a tangy and sweet dipping sauce, these nuggets are perfect for snacks, appetizers, or a light meal.
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 1-inch bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the coating base.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk and soy sauce, which will help the coating stick to the tofu.
- Prepare Breadcrumbs: Place the breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl, ready for the final coating layer.
- Coat Tofu Cubes: Dip each tofu cube first into the dry flour mixture, then into the wet milk mixture, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs. Repeat this process for all tofu pieces to ensure a crispy outer layer.
- Arrange Nuggets: Place the coated tofu cubes evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to allow proper air circulation and even baking.
- Add Oil: Drizzle olive oil over the tofu nuggets to help achieve a golden, crispy texture once baked.
- Bake Nuggets: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the nuggets are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Prepare Dipping Sauce: While the nuggets are baking, mix ketchup, soy sauce, and optional maple syrup in a small bowl to create a flavorful dipping sauce.
- Serve: Serve the crispy baked tofu nuggets hot, accompanied by the prepared dipping sauce or your favorite dip for a delicious snack or meal.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu well is crucial to remove moisture and achieve a crispy texture.
- Use chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of the nuggets.
- Panko breadcrumbs will give a crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Maple syrup in the dipping sauce is optional and can be adjusted for sweetness to taste.
- Flip the nuggets halfway through baking to ensure even crispiness.
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftovers can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.
