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Baked Crispy Tofu Nuggets

These baked tofu nuggets are crispy on the outside and tender inside, achieved through a coating of seasoned breadcrumbs and nutritional yeast. They are baked at high heat to create a satisfying crunch without any oil, resulting in a healthy, plant-based snack with a golden, crispy appearance.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 block firm or extra-firm tofu pressed to remove excess water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch helps coating stick
  • 1 cup plain or seasoned breadcrumbs toasted for extra flavor
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast adds cheesy flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • optional smoked paprika or cumin for extra flavor

Equipment

  • Baking sheet with parchment paper
  • Press or heavy object
  • Mixing bowls
  • Shallow dish for breadcrumbs
  • Spatula or tongs

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Press the block of tofu for about 15 minutes using a heavy object or tofu press to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes—about 1-inch pieces.
  3. Toss the tofu pieces gently in a tablespoon of cornstarch until they are lightly coated; this helps the coating adhere better and crisp up during baking.
  4. In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika. Toast the breadcrumbs lightly in the oven or a dry skillet until golden for extra flavor, then let cool.
  5. Dip each tofu cube into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Use tongs or your fingers to press the coating onto all sides.
  6. Place the coated tofu pieces onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each to allow for even crisping.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning the nuggets halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy around the edges, and the breadcrumbs emit a toasted aroma.
  8. Once baked, remove the nuggets from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. The residual heat will help them stay crispy and firm up.
  9. Serve the crispy tofu nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a squeeze of fresh lime for added brightness.

Notes

Pressing tofu thoroughly is key for crispiness. Feel free to customize seasonings—adding smoked paprika, cumin, or chili flakes for different flavor profiles. For extra crunch, toast the breadcrumbs before coating.