Golden Fried Tofu Bites
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these Golden Fried Tofu Bites are the ultimate plant-based snack or appetizer! Each bite-sized cube of firm tofu is coated in a delectable breading made with cornstarch, flavorful spices like garlic powder and paprika, and crunchy panko breadcrumbs to ensure maximum crunch. The tofu is fried to golden perfection in a neutral oil, creating an irresistibly crispy texture that pairs beautifully with your favorite dipping sauces. Perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking for a tasty meat-free option, this quick recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight snacks, party platters, or game-day spreads. Whether you’re a tofu enthusiast or trying it for the first time, these golden bites are sure to wow your taste buds!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu
- 0.5 cup cornstarch
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup neutral oil (e.g., vegetable or canola)
- optional dipping sauce of choice
Instructions
Drain the tofu and gently press it with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes (roughly 1 inch in size).
In a shallow dish, combine cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
Pour the plant-based milk into a separate shallow dish. Add the panko breadcrumbs to a third shallow dish.
Set up a breading station: dredge each tofu cube in the cornstarch mixture, then dip it into the plant-based milk, and finally coat it evenly with panko breadcrumbs. Repeat until all tofu cubes are coated.
Heat the neutral oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. The oil should be about 350°F (175°C). Test if the oil is ready by tossing in a small breadcrumb — it should sizzle and float to the top immediately.
Carefully add the tofu cubes in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried tofu bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Repeat with the remaining tofu cubes until all are cooked.
Serve the golden fried tofu bites hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2878 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 263.1 g | 337% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.5 g | 102% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 5 mg | 2% | |
| Sodium | 1872 mg | 81% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 110.5 g | 40% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.9 g | 32% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.6 g | ||
| Protein | 54.8 g | 110% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 805 mg | 62% | |
| Iron | 10.6 mg | 59% | |
| Potassium | 861 mg | 18% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
