Not just for kids, these tofu nuggets baked in the oven will be the favorite of the party. Whether you are serving them up for game day or as a fun finger food dinner, you’ll love your options. Select all your favorite dips and go to town! Reminiscent of fast food nuggets, tofu nuggets are especially tasty served with sweet potato fries and a milkshake. Ready to rethink tofu? Let’s cook!
here’s what you’ll need
Other than nutritional yeast, the rest of the ingredients should be basic pantry staples you already have on hand!
Tofu: This mild vegan protein will soak up all the best flavors from the marinade. Soy Sauce and Apple Cider Vinegar: Both soy sauce and apple cider vinegar have flavors of umami. This savory flavor helps to develop a meaty flavor without any meat. Nutritional Yeast: This adds a fun flavor that might be new to some folks. Here’s our guide to nutritional yeast for the uninitiated! Nutritional yeast might be tricky to find, but check where your store has all the organic baking supplies and spices. A little bag will last you a long time. Flour and Cornstarch: Cornstarch helps lighten up the texture of the flour while keeping these tofu nuggets crunchy (rather than soggy). Almond Milk: You can use any plant-based milk you like! Panko: Panko breadcrumbs create the ultimate crispy coating without having to deep fry these nuggets. Seasonings: To help flavor the breading, we’ll use garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Let’s make them!
It just takes a little planning ahead of time to make these. You can be done between school and dinner, start to finish, or you can take some time after dinner tonight to press and marinate these nuggets so they are ready to bake tomorrow. Step 1: Press the TofuPress the block of tofu either in a tofu press or by resting a heavy skillet on top of it. Let the moisture drain for at least 15 minutes, and then pat dry. Tear into rough nugget shapes. Step 2: Marinate the TofuMix the marinade in a shallow, lidded container. Toss the tofu cubes to thoroughly coat them, then let them rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. You can do these first two steps up to 24 hours ahead so you can make a quick meal. Step 3: Breading StationSet up your station with three small bowls. The first will have the flour and cornstarch. Bowl two will have almond milk and apple cider vinegar, which will be like tangy buttermilk. Finally, combine the panko and seasonings in the third bowl. Step 4: Bread the TofuUse a fork to pass each marinated nugget through the three bowls, letting excess drip off for each coating. Line them up on a parchment-lined baking sheet and then give them a quick shot of spray oil for better browning. Step 5: Bake ItBake for 25 minutes, carefully flipping over partway through for even browning.
nugget variations
Feeling Tropical: For a fun flavor shake-up, try coconut milk instead of almond milk and add some unsweetened shredded coconut to the panko. Flavor Profile: Try out any of my easy tofu marinades for a new flavor experience each time you make these nuggets!
When I Dip, You Dip, We Dip
What’s a nugget without sauce?! While these vegan chicken nuggets are great with ketchup, BBQ sauce, or ranch, here’s more inspiration for your dipping pleasure!
Chipotle Ranch Sauce: Not only is this sauce great on crispy avocado, it’s the perfect dip for baked tofu nuggets. Healthy French Onion Dip: Skip the chips and add protein to this classic dip when you dip your nuggets in it. Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: create an entire spread of finger foods.
