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Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets

These baked tofu nuggets are a crunchy, savory snack with a crackling exterior and tender interior. Made with firm tofu coated in a seasoned cornstarch mixture and baked until golden, they deliver satisfying texture and flavor without frying. Perfect for a quick, healthy treat that’s easy to customize with spices and sauces.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: International
Calories: 170
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 block extra-firm tofu pressed to remove excess water
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch for coating
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast adds cheesy flavor
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds smoky flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder for savory depth
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons oil spray for browning

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Tongs
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess water; then cut it into bite-sized cubes about 2 cm each. This helps achieve maximum crispiness.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until evenly blended.
  4. Gently toss the tofu cubes in the spice mixture, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the seasoned starch. Use tongs or your hands for even coverage.
  5. Arrange the coated tofu on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for even baking. Lightly spray the tofu with oil to enhance browning and crunch.
  6. Bake in the oven for 12 minutes, then flip each piece carefully with tongs to ensure even crisping. Continue baking for another 12-15 minutes until the nuggets are golden brown and crackling when pressed.
  7. Once baked to perfection, remove the nuggets from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes on a wire rack. This step helps set the crisp exterior and prevents sogginess.
  8. Serve the crispy tofu nuggets immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili or tahini, for an extra burst of flavor and enjoyment.