Ingredients
Tofu and Coating
- 16 oz. Super Firm Tofu
- 1 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Vegan Buffalo Sauce
- 2 Tbsp Nutritional Yeast
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 - 1 tsp Cayenne Powder (adjust to taste)
- 2 Tbsp Cornstarch
- 1/4 - 1/2 tsp Celery Salt (optional)
- Salt & Pepper (to taste)
For Frying
- Oil for frying (Vegetable, Canola, or Avocado oil) enough to cover a thin layer in skillet
For Tossing and Serving
- 1/4 - 1/2 cup Vegan Buffalo Sauce (for tossing after frying)
- Vegan Ranch (for dipping)
Instructions
- Prepare Buffalo Sauce: If you're making homemade vegan buffalo sauce, prepare it first so it’s ready to toss the tofu in at the end.
- Break Tofu: Break the super firm tofu into bite-sized pieces with rough, craggy edges rather than just cutting into cubes. These edges will help create extra crispy bites when fried.
- Season and Coat: Toss the tofu chunks in soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of buffalo sauce to marinate briefly. Next, add the nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, celery salt (if using), salt, and pepper. Finally, toss the tofu in cornstarch to coat evenly. Taste one piece to check seasoning.
- Form Nuggets: If you have any crumbled tofu bits, press them back together gently to form nugget shapes. Note they might be slightly saltier.
- Heat Oil: Pour a thin layer of a high smoke point oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado) into a 12-inch skillet. Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C), monitoring carefully to avoid burning.
- Fry Tofu: Fry the tofu pieces in the hot oil for 3 to 5 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and fry another 3 to 5 minutes. Avoid crowding the pan; if needed, fry in two batches.
- Drain and Toss: Place the fried tofu on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Then transfer to a large bowl and toss with 1/4 to 1/2 cup of vegan buffalo sauce, adjusting to your preferred level of sauciness.
- Serve: Serve immediately with vegan ranch dressing for dipping and enjoy your crispy, spicy buffalo tofu bites!
Notes
- Use super firm tofu for the best texture that holds up to frying.
- Adjust cayenne and buffalo sauce quantity to control the heat level.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet to ensure tofu crisps up properly.
- Using a wire rack to drain prevents soggy tofu by letting oil drip away.
- Serve with vegan ranch or your preferred dipping sauce for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan