Simple Crispy Garlic Herb Tofu Nuggets

January 15, 2025

Ready to crunch into the tastiest tofu ever? These Simple Crispy Garlic Herb Tofu Nuggets are a game-changer! Packed with flavor, golden crispiness, and irresistible garlicky goodness, they’re perfect for snacking, dipping, or devouring by the handful. Let’s get cooking!

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If you think tofu is boring, think again! These Simple Crispy Garlic Herb Tofu Nuggets are about to flip that narrative on its head. Picture this: golden, crunchy bites that pack a punch of garlicky and herby goodness. Whether you’re a tofu pro or just venturing into the tofu world, this recipe is the perfect no-fuss way to create a snack or meal everyone will devour. You might want to double the batch because these nuggets have a funny way of disappearing fast!

Simple Crispy Garlic Herb Tofu Nuggets Recipe

What makes this recipe stand out is the magical combination of fresh herbs, bold garlic, and a crispy coating that rivals your favorite fried foods. The simplicity is the secret weapon here—no complicated batter, no deep frying needed. We lean on tofu’s ability to soak up flavors like a sponge, marinating it in a delicious blend of garlic, olive oil, and a mix of herbs like parsley, thyme, and a pinch of smoked paprika for a little something extra. Then, it’s tossed in panko breadcrumbs for that satisfying crunch. Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and oh so full of flavor!

To nail that perfect crisp, here’s a little tip: press your tofu properly! I know, I know—it sounds like a “blah” step, but removing the excess water helps the tofu absorb all that herby garlicky magic. If you don’t have a tofu press, no problem! Just wrap the block in a kitchen towel, place it on a plate, and stack something heavy on top (maybe a couple of cans from the pantry?). Also, when coating the tofu pieces in the breadcrumbs, give them a good pat to ensure the crumbs stick nicely. Finally, don’t crowd your pan or baking sheet; the nuggets need space to get that perfect toasty color.

Now, the exciting part: eating them! These nuggets are incredibly versatile. Dip them in marinara sauce, a zesty lemon aioli, or your favorite ranch dressing for a snack-time win. They’re a fantastic topping for salads, a crunchy addition to grain bowls, or even an irresistible alternative to croutons in soup. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the smoked paprika for chili powder or adding a squeeze of fresh lemon after baking. The possibilities are endless—and oh-so-delicious. So, grab that tofu and get crispy!

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Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

•1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed
•2 tablespoons olive oil
•2 tablespoons soy sauce
•1 teaspoon garlic powder
•1 teaspoon onion powder
•1 teaspoon smoked paprika
•1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
•1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
•1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
•1/4 cup cornstarch
•Cooking spray or additional olive oil for baking

Instructions

1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or set up an air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2
Press the tofu for at least 10 minutes to remove excess liquid, then cut it into bite-sized cubes.
3
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, and oregano.
4
Gently toss the tofu cubes in the marinade until evenly coated.
5
Prepare a breading station: place panko breadcrumbs in one shallow dish and cornstarch in another.
6
Coat each tofu cube lightly with cornstarch, then roll it in panko breadcrumbs, ensuring even coverage.
7
Arrange the coated tofu nuggets on a lined baking sheet or in an air fryer basket.
8
Spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness.
9
Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, or air fry for 15-18 minutes until golden and crispy.
10
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition Information

Calories

210 calories per serving

Protein

12g

Carbs

15g

Fat

11g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of tofu for this recipe?

A: It’s best to use extra-firm tofu for this recipe because it holds its shape well during cooking and results in the crispiest texture. If you only have firm tofu, press it for a longer time to remove as much moisture as possible. Silken or soft tofu is not recommended, as it will fall apart during preparation.

Q: Can I substitute the soy sauce for a gluten-free option?

A: Yes, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. Both will provide a similar salty, umami flavor, though coconut aminos are slightly sweeter, which may alter the taste slightly.

Q: My tofu nuggets didn’t turn out crispy. What went wrong?

A: If the nuggets aren’t crispy, a few things could be the issue: ensure you pressed the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture, lightly coat the nuggets with cooking spray or olive oil before baking, and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer basket. Overcrowding can trap steam, preventing crispiness. Also, ensure your oven or air fryer is preheated to the right temperature.

Q: Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

A: Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the nuggets may not turn out as crispy. Panko breadcrumbs are larger and lighter, which helps create a crunchier texture. If using regular breadcrumbs, try toasting them lightly in a dry pan before using to improve their texture.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?

A: Store leftover tofu nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the nuggets soggy.

Q: Can I prepare these nuggets in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare the tofu nuggets in advance. Marinate and bread the tofu cubes, then place them on a tray and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before baking or air frying. Cook them fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Q: What are some variations or serving suggestions for this recipe?

A: You can customize the seasoning blend to your taste by adding chili powder for heat, nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or lemon zest for brightness. Serve the nuggets with a variety of dips such as vegan ranch, sweet chili sauce, or barbecue sauce. They also pair well as a topping for salads, grain bowls, or stuffed into wraps with fresh veggies and sauce.

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