Crispy Breaded Tofu Strips with BBQ Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Breaded tofu strips make a crispy, satisfying snack or appetizer that’s perfect for both vegans and meat-eaters alike. This recipe features extra firm tofu coated in a flavorful breadcrumb crust and served with tangy BBQ sauce for dipping.

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 about the size and length of a finger.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the cornstarch, water, and soy sauce and whisk thoroughly with a fork to make a batter.
3. Step 3: On a plate, mix together the breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of salt.
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, coating it evenly, then immediately press it into the breadcrumb mixture until all sides are fully covered.
6. Step 6: Place the coated tofu strips in the hot oil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Step 7: Transfer the cooked tofu strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with BBQ sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• Press tofu well to remove moisture for a crispier texture.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy coating.
• Try different dipping sauces like spicy mayo or sweet chili for variety.
• Add smoked paprika or garlic powder to the breadcrumb mix for more flavor.

Storage

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

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake the breaded tofu strips instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to get a crispy finish with less oil.

What type of tofu works best for this recipe?

Extra firm tofu is best because it holds its shape well and absorbs less oil, resulting in crispy, sturdy strips.

Crispy Breaded Tofu Strips with BBQ Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 86 reviews

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

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Description

Crispy and flavorful breaded tofu strips cooked to golden perfection and served with tangy BBQ sauce. This easy-to-make vegan appetizer or snack is perfect for anyone looking for a protein-packed, plant-based dish with a delicious crunchy exterior.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Tofu Preparation

• 14 to 16 ounces of extra firm tofu

Breading Mixture

• 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

Cooking

• ¼ cup of vegetable oil
• ½ cup of BBQ sauce

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu: Drain the tofu well and press it to remove excess water. Cut the block into finger-sized strips suitable for frying.
2. Make the Wet Batter: In a medium bowl, combine cornstarch, water, and soy sauce. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
3. Prepare the Dry Breading: On a plate, mix together the breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
4. Heat the Oil: Place a large pan on medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Allow the oil to heat up until it’s hot but not smoking.
5. Bread the Tofu Strips: Dip each tofu strip into the cornstarch-soy mixture until fully coated. Immediately press the coated tofu into the breadcrumb mixture to cover all sides completely.
6. Cook the Tofu: Carefully lay each breaded tofu strip in the hot oil. Cook for approximately 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain and Serve: Transfer cooked tofu strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with BBQ sauce for dipping.

Notes

• Pressing the tofu is essential to remove moisture, helping it get crispy when cooked.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free alternative or coconut aminos for a soy-free version.
• Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, for frying to avoid burning.
• Ensure oil is hot before frying to achieve a crisp exterior and to prevent tofu from soaking up too much oil.

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

Keywords: Breaded Tofu, Crispy Tofu Strips, Vegan Appetizer, Fried Tofu, Plant-Based Snack