Homemade Crispy Vegan Tofu Nuggets Recipe

Whether you eat a vegan diet or prefer plant-based foods, you'll want to try these crispy vegan tofu nuggets. Made with marinated tofu and a tasty bread crumb coating, this recipe is perfect when you're craving finger food. Plus, compared to store-bought meatless nuggets, this version is inexpensive (and easy to customize).

Marinated Tofu

Things You’ll Need

• 14-ounce block extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce and spices. Whisk well.

Step 2

Slice the tofu into small, bite-size squares.

Step 3

Transfer the tofu to a dish. Add the marinade, making sure to coat each piece of tofu. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

Batter and Crust Mixture

Things You’ll Need

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened, plant-based milk

• 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup cornstarch

• 1 cup panko bread crumbs

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• Vegetable or grape-seed oil (or other neutral oil)

Tip

You can instead use seasoned bread crumbs and skip the additional spices.

Step 1

After the tofu has marinated, prepare the batter and crust mixture.

In a small bowl, combine the milk and apple cider vinegar. Whisk well.

Step 2

In a separate bowl, add the flour and cornstarch. Slowly add the milk while stirring until the mixture resembles thick pancake batter. Set it aside for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 3

Combine the bread crumbs and spices in a separate bowl or dish.

Crispy Vegan Tofu Nuggets

Things You’ll Need

• Marinated tofu

• Batter

• Bread crumb mixture

Step 1

Using tongs, dip each piece of marinated tofu into the batter.

Step 2

Toss the battered tofu in the bread crumbs until fully coated.

Step 3

Over medium heat, add 1/4 to 1/2 inch of oil to a medium skillet. Cook the tofu until golden brown, about 2 minutes on each side. Rotate and cook the sides until golden brown if needed.

You'll likely need to work in batches. As you cook the remaining tofu, add more oil as necessary.

Step 4

Transfer the cooked nuggets to a plate lined with a paper towel.

Serve with ketchup, honey mustard or your favorite sauce. Yum!