Did you know that 65% of Americans are actively trying to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diet, yet many struggle to find satisfying alternatives to their favorite comfort foods? If you’re among them, these crispy baked tofu nuggets are about to revolutionize your snack game. Unlike store-bought veggie nuggets that often contain excessive sodium and preservatives, these homemade tofu nuggets deliver that same satisfying crunch and flavor profile you crave, while being significantly healthier. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these tofu nuggets are surprisingly simple to make and can be customized with your favorite seasonings and dipping sauces. Let’s dive into this plant-based alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain all water. Wrap the tofu block in clean kitchen towels or paper towels, then place a heavy object (like a cast-iron skillet or several cookbooks) on top. Let it press for at least 15 minutes—this crucial step removes excess moisture, which is the secret to achieving truly crispy tofu nuggets. For even better results, press your tofu for up to 30 minutes if time allows.
- While the tofu presses, set up your breading station with three separate bowls. In the first, mix cornstarch with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second, whisk together plant milk and Dijon mustard until smooth. In the third, combine panko breadcrumbs with nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. This three-step breading process ensures your tofu nuggets develop that irresistible golden crust.
- Once pressed, cut the tofu block into nugget-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes or rectangular pieces. In a shallow dish, mix soy sauce and olive oil, then gently toss the tofu pieces in this mixture. Allow them to marinate for 5 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even coating. This quick marinade infuses your tofu nuggets with umami flavor that mimics the savory quality of traditional nuggets.
- Take each marinated tofu piece and dredge it first in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring complete coverage. Next, dip it in the plant milk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, thoroughly coat it in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to all sides. Place the breaded tofu nuggets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray the breaded tofu nuggets with cooking oil to encourage browning. Bake for 12-15 minutes, then carefully flip each nugget and bake for another 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy on all sides. For extra crispiness, you can switch to broil for the final 2 minutes—just watch them closely to prevent burning!
Step 1: Press the Tofu
Step 2: Prepare Your Breading Station
Step 3: Cut and Marinate the Tofu
Step 4: Bread the Tofu Nuggets
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 210kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 11g17%
- Sodium 380mg16%
- Protein 12g24%
- Calcium 150 mg
- Iron 2.5 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
FAQs
Can I make these tofu nuggets gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute regular panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your soy sauce is certified gluten-free (or use coconut aminos instead). The cornstarch is naturally gluten-free, making this an easy recipe to adapt.
My tofu nuggets aren’t getting crispy. What am I doing wrong?
The most common culprit is excess moisture in the tofu. Make sure to press it thoroughly for at least 15 minutes. Also check that your oven is properly preheated to 425°F and that you’re not overcrowding the baking sheet.
Can I make these tofu nuggets in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fryers are excellent for creating crispy tofu nuggets. Cook at 380°F for approximately 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll use significantly less oil while achieving even crispier results.
How can I make these tofu nuggets more kid-friendly?
For picky eaters, try cutting the tofu into fun shapes using cookie cutters before breading. You can also adjust the seasonings to be milder by reducing or eliminating the smoked paprika, or add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a more “cheesy” flavor that kids typically enjoy.
Can I prepare these ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! You can bread the tofu nuggets up to 24 hours in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator on a baking sheet. Alternatively, you can fully bake them earlier in the day, then reheat at 350°F for 7-10 minutes just before serving.
What’s the best way to store leftover tofu nuggets?
Store cooled tofu nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To maintain crispiness when reheating, use an oven or toaster oven rather than a microwave, which tends to make them soggy.
Are these tofu nuggets freezer-friendly?
Yes! You can freeze them either before or after baking. For unbaked nuggets, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. For baked nuggets, cool completely before freezing. Either way, they’ll keep for up to 3 months.
Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets for Plant-Based Snacking
Description
These crispy baked tofu nuggets are the perfect plant-based snack—crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Great for dipping, lunchboxes, or guilt-free munching!
