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Crispy Panko Baked or Fried Tofu Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 46 reviews
  • Author: Ivy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-25 minutes depending on chosen method
  • Total Time: 20-35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Vegan / Vegetarian - Adaptable to Asian-inspired or Western cuisines
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This crispy and flavorful Panko Tofu recipe offers a delicious plant-based alternative that's perfect for snacking, appetizers, or adding to your favorite meals. Coated in a seasoned panko breadcrumb crust and cooked to golden perfection, this versatile tofu can be baked, pan-fried, or air-fried to suit your preferences. Featuring a vegan buttermilk soak and a blend of spices and nutritional yeast, it's a satisfying way to enjoy super firm tofu with a delightfully crunchy texture.

Ingredients

Tofu and Vegan Buttermilk

  • 16 ounce package (454 grams) Super Firm Tofu
  • ⅔ cup unsweetened original flavor non-dairy milk (soy recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice (or 1 tablespoon vinegar)

Breading Mix

  • ⅓ cup chickpea flour / garbanzo bean flour
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional, for flavoring)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
  • 1 teaspoon granulated onion
  • ¾ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Make Vegan Buttermilk: In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine 2-3 tablespoons of fresh squeezed lemon juice or 1 tablespoon vinegar with ⅔ cup unsweetened original flavor non-dairy milk. Stir well and set aside to curdle and thicken slightly.
  2. Prep Tofu: Remove tofu from packaging and gently blot dry with paper towels. Cut into desired shapes such as triangles, cubes, or slabs. If your tofu is not super firm or vacuum-sealed, press it for 20-30 minutes between plates with a weight to remove excess moisture for better crispiness.
  3. Preheat Oven (if baking): Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking tray with a silicone mat or parchment paper.
  4. Set Up Breading Station: In one shallow bowl, whisk chickpea flour into the vegan buttermilk to create a wet mixture. In another bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, granulated garlic, granulated onion, sea salt, and black pepper. Prepare a plate, tray, or air fryer basket for the coated tofu.
  5. Prep Oil (if pan frying): Heat a large skillet over high heat with about a half inch of oil until hot but not smoking, around 350°F (177°C).
  6. Bread the Tofu: Using your hands, dip each tofu piece into the wet mixture, letting excess drip off, then thoroughly coat all sides and edges in the dry breadcrumb mix. Place coated tofu pieces on the prepared tray or air fryer basket and cook immediately for optimal crispiness.
  7. Air Frying Method: Arrange tofu pieces in the air fryer basket with at least ½-inch space between them. Cook at 400°F (205°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping carefully halfway through once the coating is firm enough to flip without sticking. The tofu is done when golden brown and crispy on all sides.
  8. Pan Frying Method: Carefully place tofu pieces in the hot oil without crowding the pan. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side until light to medium brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip gently. Drain cooked tofu on paper towels to remove excess oil. Repeat with remaining pieces.
  9. Baking Method: Place tofu on the prepared baking tray leaving at least an inch of space between pieces. Optionally spray lightly with avocado oil. Bake for 15-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until both sides are medium brown and crispy.
  10. Serving: Serve tofu immediately with your favorite dipping sauces such as vegan BBQ sauce, soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, vegan ranch, spicy mayo, or ketchup. It also makes a great addition to bowls, salads, or sandwiches.

Notes

  • Use super firm tofu for best texture; pressing regular tofu improves crispiness.
  • Chickpea flour acts as an excellent binder and adds subtle flavor.
  • Nutritional yeast is optional but adds a cheesy, umami taste.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan or air fryer to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  • If baking, avocado oil spray helps browning, but can be omitted for a lower fat option.
  • Cooking times may vary based on equipment and tofu piece size; adjust as needed.
  • Use non-dairy milk without vanilla flavor to avoid altering taste.

Find it online: https://ivysrecipes.com/crispy-panko-baked-or-fried-tofu-recipe/