If you’re looking for a delicious plant-based alternative to traditional chicken nuggets, tofu nuggets are the perfect answer! They are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. In this article, we’ll explore the wonders of Vegan Chicken Nuggets and a step-by-step guide on how to make them at home.
What Are Tofu Nuggets?
Understanding Tofu
Tofu, also known as bean curd, is a versatile soy-based protein made from condensed soy milk. It’s a popular ingredient in vegetarian and vegan cooking due to its mild flavor and ability to absorb seasonings and marinades.
The Appeal of Tofu Nuggets
Vegan Chicken Nuggets take the concept of traditional chicken nuggets and transform them into a healthier, cruelty-free option. They offer a satisfying crunch and can be customized with various spices and dipping sauces.
Ingredients & Substitutions
To make Vegan Chicken Nuggets, you’ll need:
- 1 block extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or substitute crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option)
- A little spray of avocado oil (optional)
Wet Mixture
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2-3 tbsp plain plant milk
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Black pepper to taste
Helpful Tools
To prepare tofu nuggets, gather these essential tools:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Shallow dishes for coating
- Oven (preheated to 400°F)
How To Make These Tofu Nuggets Recipe
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then tear it into bite-sized pieces.
Creating the Wet Mixture
In a shallow dish, combine cornstarch, plant milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper to create a thick batter.
Coating with Breadcrumbs
Place panko breadcrumbs in another shallow dish.
Dip each tofu piece into the wet mixture, then coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
Baking the Nuggets
Arrange coated tofu pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
For a crispier texture, lightly spray with avocado oil.
Bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Tofu Nuggets
For the best texture, try freezing and thawing tofu before cooking. This process alters its texture, making it more “meaty” and absorbent of flavors.
FAQs: Vegan Chicken Nugget Recipe
Yes, you can use firm or extra-firm tofu based on your texture preference.
Substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Yes, air-frying is another great option for achieving a crispy texture with less oil.
Tofu Nuggets Vegan Chicken Nugget Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 block extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 1 cup breadcrumbs of choice see notes
- a little spray of avocado oil (optional)
Wet Mixture
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2-3 tbsp plain plant milk
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- salt & black pepper to taste
- ½ tsp vegan broth powder (This is optional: if you can get one that is "chicken" flavoured even better!)
Instructions
- Pre-heat the oven to 400° and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Tear the tofu into bite sized pieces. Tearing it will create a lot of ridges that help the sauce stick. (see photos for reference)
- In a shallow dish, make your wet mixture by combining cornstarch, plant milk, soy sauce, paprika, garlic powder and black pepper. Start with 2 tbsp of plant milk and add more only if needed. This mixture should be quite thick, but not so thick that you can't dip your tofu pieces.
- In a second shallow dish, add the panko breadcrumbs.
- Dip each piece of tofu into the wet mixture, then into the panko bread crumbs. Place each nugget directly onto the parchment paper.
- Optional: For a crispier texture, lightly spray the nuggets with a little avocado oil.
- Bake the tofu nuggets at 400 for 30 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve with your favourite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Conclusion: Tofu Nuggets
Tofu nuggets are a delightful, vegan snack or meal option that satisfies cravings for crunchy, savory bites. With this recipe, you can enjoy a healthier alternative to traditional nuggets while embracing the benefits of plant-based eating.
One of the BEST vegan chicken nugget recipes I have tried. My kids loved them and will be bookmarking this page.
oh my goodness I’m so happy to hear the kids loved these vegan chicken nuggets!! Thank you so much!
Great nuggets and becoming a big fan of tofu. Do you have any recommendations for vegan bbq sauce recipes?
Thank you so much I’m so happy you love the tofu nuggets! Most of the BBQ sauces in the grocery store are actually vegan just be sure to double check the label on the back. IF you are looking for one without the use of refined sugar the primal kitchen one is delicious. Hope that helps!
Delicious plant based nuggets!! 🔥
thank you so much Bea! 🙂
Texture was on point!! Wasn’t sure if they were going to turn out. Tried a few other of the vegan nugget recipes out there. This is the best one so far.
Thank you SOOO much for this review!! I’m so happy they turned out for you and I’m so happy you loved this tofu nugget recipe!
So good! Delicious 😋
Thank you so much Kassidy! 🙂
Such a great recipe thanks Essy cooks
Thank you so much! I’m really happy you enjoyed it.
Yum! Love these tofu nuggets. I frozen thawed my tofu and the texture was fantastic. I will be making these again.
thank you so much!! and that’s SO smart it really improves the texture of the tofu!
This was awesome! Thanks for the easy step-by-step instructions. Loving your food blog. It becoming my go to for plant based recipes
Thank you so much!! I’m so happy you are loving the blog you just made my day! 🙂
Thank you so much for this recipe and the detailed steps you made this so easy to follow and make. And I must say this recipe was delicious. What a proper recipe this was.
Thank you SOOO much and I’m so happy to hear you found the recipe easy to follow! 🙂
Amazing tofu nuggets from probably the best recipe for this “meat” replacement that I have tested out
OH wow I’m so happy to hear that! We love these nuggets too and I’m so glad they are your new faves!