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Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets

Crispy baked tofu nuggets are a health-conscious alternative to fried snacks, featuring a crunchy coating achieved through baking. Main ingredients include extra-firm tofu, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs, which together create a satisfying, golden crust. The final result is a crispy, flavorful bite with a tender interior, perfect for snacking, salads, or dipping.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Healthy
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu pressed overnight for maximum firmness
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos
  • 1 tsp sesame oil optional, for aroma
  • 0.5 tsp paprika smoked or sweet
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder for flavor
  • 0.25 tsp salt optional, to taste
  • 3 tbsp cornstarch for crispiness
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for light crunch
  • cooking spray light oil spray for browning

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Small whisk
  • Shallow dishes
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Spray bottle or oil mister

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized nuggets about 2 cm wide.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, paprika, garlic powder, and salt until well combined—the aroma should be savory and fragrant.
  4. Pour the sauce into a shallow dish. In a separate shallow dish, place the cornstarch, and in another, spread out the panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Dip each tofu nugget into the sauce, letting any excess drip off, then coat thoroughly in the cornstarch. Gently press to help the coating adhere.
  6. Next, roll the coated tofu in the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even layer around each piece. Place the coated nuggets on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Lightly spray the coated tofu nuggets with cooking spray or drizzle with a small amount of oil to promote browning.
  8. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through, until they turn golden brown and the coating is crisp and crackly.
  9. Once baked, remove the nuggets from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes to set the crust and enhance crunchiness.
  10. Serve the crispy tofu nuggets hot with your favorite dips or atop salads for a satisfying crunch.

Notes

Pressing the tofu overnight yields the crispiest results. For extra crunch, broil the nuggets for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best texture.