Breaded Tofu Strips with BBQ Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Breaded Tofu Strips are a crispy, flavorful plant-based snack or appetizer that’s easy to prepare. With a crunchy coating and a tangy BBQ sauce dip, this dish is perfect for tofu lovers and newcomers alike.

Ingredients

• 14 to 16 ounces of extra firm tofu
• ½ cup of cornstarch
• ¼ cup of water
• 2 Tablespoons of soy sauce
• ½ cup of breadcrumbs
• 1 Tablespoon of nutritional yeast
• Pinch of salt
• ¼ cup of vegetable oil
• ½ cup of BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Step 1: Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut the block into strips roughly the size and length of a finger.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, water, and soy sauce until smooth.
3. Step 3: On a plate, mix the breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of salt thoroughly.
4. Step 4: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until hot.
5. Step 5: Dip each tofu strip into the cornstarch mixture, making sure it is evenly coated, then press it onto the breadcrumb mixture to cover all sides completely.
6. Step 6: Place the coated tofu strips in the hot pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Step 7: Remove the tofu strips and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with BBQ sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• Pressing the tofu well helps the coating stick better and results in a crispier texture.
• Try different dipping sauces like spicy mayo or sweet chili for variety.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy coating.

Storage

Store leftover breaded tofu strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness, as microwaving can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use soft tofu instead of extra firm tofu?

Extra firm tofu is best for this recipe because it holds its shape and crisps well. Soft tofu will be too delicate and likely fall apart during cooking.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free without compromising flavor or texture.

Breaded Tofu Strips with BBQ Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 72 reviews

• Author: Charlotte
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

Crispy Breaded Tofu Strips made by coating extra firm tofu in a cornstarch-soy sauce batter, then breading with a seasoned breadcrumb and nutritional yeast mixture before pan-frying to golden perfection. These savory tofu strips are perfect dipped in BBQ sauce for a delicious plant-based snack or appetizer.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Tofu and Coating

• 14 to 16 ounces extra firm tofu
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
• Pinch of salt
• ¼ cup vegetable oil

For Serving

• ½ cup BBQ sauce

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu: Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut the tofu block into finger-sized strips.
2. Make the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, water, and soy sauce until fully combined and smooth.
3. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture: On a plate, combine the breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of salt, mixing thoroughly to evenly distribute the ingredients.
4. Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
5. Coat the Tofu Strips: Dip each tofu strip into the cornstarch mixture until evenly coated, then press immediately into the breadcrumb mixture to cover all sides completely.
6. Fry the Tofu: Place coated tofu strips in the hot pan and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain and Serve: Transfer the cooked tofu strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, then serve warm with BBQ sauce for dipping.

Notes

• Pressing tofu before cooking is essential to remove excess water and achieve a crispy crust.
• Use extra firm tofu for best results; softer tofu may fall apart during frying.
• Vegetable oil is preferred for its high smoke point, but other neutral oils can be used.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Customize the seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture by adding smoked paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: breaded tofu, tofu strips, vegan appetizer, crispy tofu, plant-based recipe