Crispy Vegan Tofu Nuggets
Golden, crunchy tofu nuggets marinated in savory bouillon, double-breaded with panko, and fried to perfection. These plant-based bites are the ultimate kid-friendly comfort food for dipping.
Instructions
Step 1: Press and portion the tofu
Press the extra-firm tofu for at least 1 hour to remove excess moisture. Tear or cut into nugget-sized pieces (about 1–1½in (2.5–4cm)).
Step 2: Make a quick bouillon marinade
Stir the hot water and bouillon together until dissolved. Add the tofu and marinate 30 minutes, tossing halfway for even flavor. Drain and pat dry.
Step 3: Set up the breading station
Arrange three shallow bowls. Bowl 1: all-purpose flour, ½ tsp of the salt, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Bowl 2: unsweetened soy milk whisked with the lemon juice. Bowl 3: panko breadcrumbs mixed with the remaining 1 tsp salt.
Step 4: Bread the tofu
Coat the tofu pieces in the seasoned flour, dip into the soy milk mixture, then press firmly into the panko so the crumbs adhere well. Set the breaded pieces on a tray.
Step 5: Fry until crisp and golden
Heat the canola oil (about 1in/2.5cm deep) in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the tofu in batches for 7–9 minutes total, turning once, until deeply golden and crunchy. Transfer to a rack to drain.
Step 6: Serve
Let rest 2–3 minutes to set the crust, then serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
- 400g block of tofu (extra-firm)
- ½ cup of hot water
- 1 cube or 1 tsp of vegetable bouillon
- ¾ cup of all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp of salt (divided)
- 1 tsp of paprika
- 1 tsp of garlic powder
- ½ tsp of black pepper
- ¼ tsp of cayenne pepper
- 1 cup of plain unsweetened soy milk
- 1 tbsp of lemon juice
- 1¼ cup of panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup of canola oil (for frying)
Nutritional Info
per serving
- Calories:
- 400kcal
- Protein:
- 18g
- Carbs:
- 40g
- Fat:
- 19g