Crispy Breaded Tofu Strips with BBQ Sauce Recipe

Introduction

These breaded tofu strips are a crispy, flavorful alternative to fried chicken fingers. Perfectly seasoned and coated, they make a delicious snack or appetizer that even non-vegans will enjoy.

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, whisk together cornstarch, water, and soy sauce until smooth.
3. Step 3: On a plate, mix the breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, and salt thoroughly.
4. Step 4: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until hot.
5. Step 5: Dip each tofu strip into the cornstarch mixture to coat evenly, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to cover all sides completely.
6. Step 6: Place the coated tofu strips in the hot oil and cook until golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
7. Step 7: Transfer cooked strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, then serve warm with bbq sauce.

Tips & Variations

• Press tofu well to prevent sogginess and allow the coating to stick better.
• For extra flavor, add garlic powder or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you want to keep this dish gluten-free.
• Try serving with different dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mayo for variety.

Storage

Store leftover 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 using a microwave.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use soft or silken tofu instead of firm tofu?

Extra firm tofu works best because it holds its shape during cooking. Soft or silken tofu is too delicate and may fall apart when breaded and fried.

Is it possible to bake these tofu strips instead of frying?

Yes, bake the coated tofu strips at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Crispy Breaded Tofu Strips with BBQ Sauce Recipe

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Crispy and flavorful Breaded Tofu Strips made by coating extra firm tofu in a cornstarch-soy sauce mixture, then breaded with seasoned breadcrumbs and nutritional yeast, pan-fried to golden perfection. Served with tangy BBQ sauce, this vegan-friendly dish is a perfect protein-packed snack or appetizer.

• Author: Rita
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

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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

Breading

• ½ cup of breadcrumbs
• 1 Tablespoon of nutritional yeast
• Pinch of salt

For Cooking

• ¼ cup of vegetable oil

Serving

• ½ cup of BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu: Drain and press the tofu to remove excess water, then cut the block into strips roughly the size and length of a finger to ensure even cooking and easy handling.
2. Make the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, water, and soy sauce thoroughly with a fork to form a smooth coating mixture.
3. Prepare the Breading: On a large plate, mix together the breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of salt uniformly to create the dry breading mixture.
4. Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking, preparing for frying.
5. Bread the Tofu Strips: Dip each tofu strip into the cornstarch mixture ensuring even coverage, then immediately press it onto the breadcrumb mixture making sure all sides are coated well.
6. Fry the Tofu: Place the breaded tofu strips carefully onto the hot pan and cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping gently to avoid breaking.
7. Drain and Serve: Transfer the cooked tofu strips to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil, then serve hot with BBQ sauce for dipping.

Notes

• Pressing the tofu thoroughly helps achieve the best texture by removing excess moisture.
• The nutritional yeast adds a subtle cheesy flavor while keeping the dish vegan.
• You can substitute BBQ sauce with your favorite dipping sauce such as sweet chili or teriyaki.
• For crispier results, you may double-coat the tofu by repeating the dipping and breading step.
• Use a non-stick or well-seasoned pan to prevent tofu from sticking and breaking.

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