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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut the tofu block into finger-sized strips.
- Make the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, water, and soy sauce until fully combined and smooth.
- Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture: On a plate, combine the breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of salt, mixing thoroughly to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
