crispy sesame tofu bites (Print Version)
Crispy sesame tofu cubes offer bold flavors and crunch, making them ideal for appetizers or a protein-packed snack.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Tofu
01 - 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
→ Marinade
02 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
03 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup
04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
05 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
→ Breading
07 - 1/2 cup cornstarch
08 - 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
09 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
10 - 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds
11 - 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
12 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
13 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
→ Dipping Sauce (optional)
14 - 2 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise
15 - 1 tablespoon sriracha
16 - 1 teaspoon lime juice
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Add tofu cubes and gently coat. Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
03 - Arrange three shallow bowls: one with cornstarch, one with plant-based milk, and one with a mixture of panko, white sesame seeds, black sesame seeds, sea salt, and black pepper.
04 - Dredge each marinated tofu cube in cornstarch, dip into plant-based milk, then coat thoroughly with the panko-sesame mixture.
05 - Place coated tofu cubes evenly onto the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray or brush with oil.
06 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the exterior is golden and crisp.
07 - In a small bowl, stir vegan mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth.
08 - Enjoy tofu bites warm with dipping sauce on the side.
# Additional Tips::
01 -
- Uses everyday pantry ingredients like tofu, soy sauce, and breadcrumbs
- Quick and easy prep for parties or meal prep
- Bakes up golden and crunchy with almost no oil
- Naturally vegan and adaptable for gluten-free and nut-free diets
- Perfect served as a snack or as the protein in a meal
02 -
- High in satisfying plant-based protein
- Lowers cholesterol compared to traditional meat nuggets
- Great for making ahead and freezing
03 -
- Pressing the tofu is key for texture so let it drain at least 15 minutes before cubing
- Double dip in the panko mixture for extra crunch and do not crowd the pan or you risk soggy sides You can even prep everything the night before to streamline your party day