Description
Crispy and flavorful Breaded Tofu Strips make a perfect plant-based snack or appetizer. Extra firm tofu is coated in a savory cornstarch and soy sauce batter, then breaded with a crispy mixture of breadcrumbs and nutritional yeast. Pan-fried to a golden brown and served with tangy BBQ sauce, these tofu strips are deliciously satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu and Batter
- 14 to 16 ounces of extra firm tofu
- ½ cup of cornstarch
- ¼ cup of water
- 2 Tablespoons of soy sauce
Breading
- ½ cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 Tablespoon of nutritional yeast
- Pinch of salt
Cooking
- ¼ cup of vegetable oil
Serving
- ½ cup of BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Drain and Slice Tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut the block into finger-sized strips to ensure even cooking and easy handling during breading.
- Prepare Batter: In a medium bowl, combine cornstarch, water, and soy sauce. Whisk thoroughly with a fork until smooth to create a coating base for the tofu.
- Mix Breading: On a plate, mix together breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of salt to create the flavorful crust for the tofu.
- Heat Oil: Warm vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until shimmering, ready for frying the tofu strips.
- Coat Tofu Strips: Dip each tofu strip into the cornstarch batter, ensuring full coverage, then immediately press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides evenly.
- Fry Tofu Strips: Carefully place the coated tofu strips in the hot oil and fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, cooking until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer the cooked tofu strips onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil, then serve warm with BBQ sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu well is essential to remove moisture and help the breading stick better.
- Use extra firm tofu to maintain shape during frying.
- Nutritional yeast adds a subtle cheesy, umami flavor enhancing the taste of the breading.
- Adjust cooking time slightly depending on your stovetop and pan for perfect crispiness.
- Serve immediately for the best texture as the breading may soften if left too long.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Breaded Tofu, Crispy Tofu Strips, Vegan Snack, Tofu Recipe, Fried Tofu, Healthy Vegan Appetizer
