Tofu Nuggets Recipe
If you’re in the mood for something irresistibly crispy and satisfying but still want to keep things plant-based, these Tofu Nuggets are about to become your new go-to. They deliver golden-crunchy outsides and tender, flavorful centers—perfect for dipping, snacking, or piling onto your favorite plate. Whether you’re feeding kids, impressing omnivorous friends, or just looking for a speedy, wholesome dinner, these little bites check every box with style!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how just a handful of humble, pantry-friendly ingredients can make these Tofu Nuggets so craveable! Every component plays a part in creating that crave-worthy texture, from the crispy coating to the flavorful seasoning. Don’t skip a single one—they’re each important for nugget perfection.
- Extra-firm tofu: This is the star! Extra-firm holds its shape best and has just the right chew for nuggets.
- Unsweetened plant-based milk: The creamy base for your vegan buttermilk helps the coating stick.
- Apple cider vinegar: When mixed with plant milk, it makes that tangy “buttermilk” magic happen.
- All-purpose flour: Essential for the first dunk—it gives the nuggets a perfect batter base.
- Breadcrumbs (panko or regular): Key to getting the outside ultra-crispy and golden.
- Nutritional yeast: Adds a cheesy, savory boost and an extra hit of flavor.
- Garlic powder: Just enough garlicky depth to round out the taste.
- Onion powder: Balances the flavors with subtle sweetness and warmth.
- Paprika: A dash brings appetizing color plus a little smoky undertone.
- Salt: Can’t skip good seasoning—salt wakes up all the other flavors.
- Black pepper: For a gentle kick without overpowering the other spices.
- Cooking spray or oil: This is what gives the nuggets that “just fried” crispness even when baking or air frying.
How to Make Tofu Nuggets
Step 1: Prep the Tofu
Start by pressing your tofu to remove as much moisture as possible—this makes a world of difference for texture! Grab a clean kitchen towel or a few layers of paper towels, wrap up your tofu block, and set something heavy on top for about 10-15 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into cute bite-sized cubes. This way, every piece gets maximum crunch and flavor.
Step 2: Make Vegan Buttermilk
In a small bowl, combine the unsweetened plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes—the mixture will thicken a bit and get delightfully tangy. This “buttermilk” helps the coating stick while adding a subtle zing to your Tofu Nuggets.
Step 3: Set Up Your Dredging Stations
Get three shallow bowls ready: one with flour, one with your vegan buttermilk, and the third with a blend of breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Lining up your dipping stations means your hands stay neater and the nuggets stay perfectly coated.
Step 4: Coat the Nuggets
Working one piece at a time, dredge each tofu cube in the flour so they’re lightly coated. Next, dip into the buttermilk mixture—let any extra drip off—then roll generously in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to really pack that flavor and crunch onto every side. Place each coated piece on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake or Air Fry Until Crispy
Lightly spray the tops of your nuggets with cooking oil to help them become irresistibly golden. Bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and deeply golden all around. For an even speedier option, pop them into an air fryer at 375°F for 15–18 minutes. There’s no wrong answer here—just fabulous, crunchy Tofu Nuggets whichever way you cook them!
How to Serve Tofu Nuggets
Garnishes
Dress up your platter with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. For a spicy twist, dust them with a little extra paprika right after baking, or drizzle with your favorite hot sauce for irresistible zing!
Side Dishes
Pair your Tofu Nuggets with classic fries, sweet potato wedges, or a cool crunchy slaw. For a lighter meal, a fresh green salad or roasted veggies on the side balance out the crispy richness. And don’t forget the dipping sauces—ranch, BBQ, spicy mayo, or even classic ketchup make every bite an adventure.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these Tofu Nuggets into the star of a wrap, stuff them into warm pita with lettuce and veggies, or build playful “nugget bowls” over grains with your favorite toppings. For parties, skewer them on little sticks with cherry tomatoes or cubes of cucumber for easy, crowd-pleasing appetizers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Tofu Nuggets keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let them cool to room temperature before storing so they stay crispy rather than soggy—and enjoy cool or reheated for snacking anytime.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the cooked nuggets on a baking sheet so they aren’t touching, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep their texture and flavor for up to 2 months—a lifesaver for busy days!
Reheating
For the best results, reheat Tofu Nuggets in an oven or air fryer at 375°F until hot and crispy. Microwaving works in a pinch but won’t preserve their crunch, so try to re-toast them for that perfect texture if you can.
FAQs
Can I make these Tofu Nuggets gluten-free?
Absolutely—just swap in your favorite gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. The nuggets will still turn out wonderfully crisp and delicious.
Do I need to press the tofu every time?
Yes, pressing removes excess moisture so the nuggets don’t get soggy. It’s well worth those extra few minutes for the perfect texture every time!
What’s the best way to get the coating to stick?
The flour-bath-breadcrumb process is key, and the homemade vegan buttermilk really helps the coating cling. If your crumbs aren’t sticking, press down gently when rolling each nugget for extra coverage.
Can I marinate the tofu before breading?
Absolutely! For even more flavor, marinate your pressed tofu cubes in soy sauce and garlic (or your favorite seasoning blend) for about 20 minutes before breading them.
What are some fun dipping sauces for Tofu Nuggets?
Try classic BBQ, vegan ranch, spicy mayo, or even honey-mustard (maple-mustard for a vegan version). Mixing up the dips keeps things fresh and exciting bite after bite!
Final Thoughts
It’s amazing how such simple ingredients turn into something so crowd-pleasing and craveable. Give these Tofu Nuggets a try and watch them disappear—they’re the ultimate plant-based comfort food, perfect for both casual weeknights and sharing with friends!
Print
Tofu Nuggets Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These crispy tofu nuggets are a delicious vegan alternative to traditional chicken nuggets. Coated in a flavorful breading and baked to perfection, they make a satisfyingly crunchy snack or main dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 ounces) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- cooking spray or oil for baking/frying
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Make vegan ‘buttermilk’: In a small bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
- Prepare coating: In a second bowl, place the flour. In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat tofu: Dip each tofu cube first in flour, then in the buttermilk mixture, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, coating well.
- Bake: Place coated tofu nuggets on the baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking oil. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Alternatively, air fry at 375°F for 15–18 minutes.
Notes
Notes:
- For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in a bit of soy sauce and garlic before breading.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like BBQ, ranch, or spicy mayo.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking or Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6–8 nuggets
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
