Description
These Crispy Buffalo Tofu Bites are a flavorful and crunchy vegan appetizer that’s perfect for game day or a quick snack. Extra firm tofu is coated in a garlicky cornstarch mix, dipped in soy milk, then breaded with panko or crushed crackers before being air fried or baked to golden perfection. Tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, they deliver the classic kick of buffalo wings without the meat, making them ideal for vegan and vegetarian diets. Serve with vegan ranch or blue cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a deliciously addictive bite.
Ingredients
Tofu Coating
- 16 oz extra firm tofu (drained and pressed)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Breading
- 1/3 cup soy milk (unsweetened)
- 1 to 1.5 cups panko bread crumbs or crushed Ritz Crackers
Sauce
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s Red Hot)
Optional Garnish and Serving
- Vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Cut the drained and pressed tofu into large cubes about 2 to 3 inches long to ensure they hold their shape and crisp well.
- Coat with Cornstarch Mixture: Place the tofu cubes in a large resealable plastic bag along with the cornstarch and garlic powder. Shake gently until the tofu pieces are evenly coated. Alternatively, you may toss the cubes and coating mix in a large bowl.
- Dip in Soy Milk and Breading: Dip each cornstarch-coated tofu cube into a bowl of unsweetened soy milk, shaking off any excess liquid, then coat thoroughly with panko bread crumbs or crushed crackers to add crunch.
- Cook the Tofu Bites: For air frying, arrange tofu bites evenly in the basket without overcrowding (you may need to do two batches). Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 12 to 14 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Using a fork, dip each cooked bite into buffalo sauce, drain excess sauce, then place them back in the air fryer and cook for an additional 5 minutes to re-crisp. For oven baking, preheat to 425°F (218°C), place the tofu bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden. Toss in buffalo sauce, then bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until crispy.
- Serve: Plate the crispy buffalo tofu bites with vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for an attractive garnish and extra freshness.
Notes
- Pressing tofu removes excess moisture which helps achieve a crispy texture when cooked.
- You can substitute panko bread crumbs with crushed Ritz Crackers for different flavor and crunch.
- Adjust buffalo sauce quantity to your preferred spice level.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and crisping.
- Serve immediately after cooking for the best texture.
