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Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets

These baked tofu nuggets are coated in a flavorful panko breadcrumb mixture and baked until golden and crispy, offering a healthy and satisfying plant-based snack or meal addition. The process involves pressing, coating, and baking the tofu to achieve a crunchy exterior and tender interior, perfect for dipping or adding to salads and wraps.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz firm tofu pressed to remove excess moisture
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper optional for heat
  • 1 cup plant-based milk almond or soy milk
  • cooking spray cooking spray

Equipment

  • Pressing weight or heavy object
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or fork
  • Cooking spray

Method
 

  1. Press the tofu between paper towels with a heavy object for at least 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut into bite-sized cubes.
  2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk and set aside.
  3. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix well.
  4. Dip each tofu piece into the plant-based milk, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly.
  5. Arrange the coated tofu nuggets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
  6. Lightly spray the tops of the tofu nuggets with cooking spray to encourage golden browning.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the nuggets are crispy and golden brown.
  8. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the nuggets cool slightly for a few minutes—this helps them crisp up a bit more.
  9. Serve the tofu nuggets warm with your favorite dipping sauces or add them to salads and wraps for a crunchy protein boost.

Notes

Pressing the tofu thoroughly is key to achieving maximum crispiness. Feel free to customize the spice blend to suit your taste. For extra crunch, bake a few extra minutes until deeply golden.