Popcorn Tofu Bites (Printable Version)

Crispy tofu cubes with bold seasoning, ideal for snacks or appetizers. Easy and flavorful plant-based option.

# What You'll Need:

→ Tofu

01 - 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into ¾-inch cubes

→ Marinade

02 - 2 tbsp soy sauce
03 - 1 tbsp olive oil
04 - 1 tbsp lemon juice
05 - 1 tsp garlic powder
06 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
07 - ½ tsp onion powder
08 - ½ tsp ground black pepper

→ Breading

09 - ½ cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
10 - ¼ cup unsweetened plant milk
11 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
12 - 1 tsp dried oregano
13 - 1 tsp sweet paprika
14 - ½ tsp salt
15 - ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

→ For Baking/Frying

16 - Cooking spray or 2 tbsp neutral oil

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F or heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F for frying.
02 - Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add tofu cubes and toss gently to coat. Marinate for at least 10 minutes.
03 - Arrange three bowls: one with flour, one with plant milk, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with oregano, paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper.
04 - Dredge each tofu cube in flour, dip in plant milk, then coat thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
05 - For baking, place breaded cubes on a parchment-lined sheet, spray lightly, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway until golden and crisp. For frying, cook cubes in hot oil for 2 to 3 minutes per side until evenly golden. Drain on paper towels.
06 - Serve warm with preferred dipping sauce.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • They're crispy on the outside with a tender center—you get that satisfying crunch with every bite.
  • The flavor is bold and adaptable, working as a snack, appetizer, or protein-packed main depending on your mood.
  • Baking or frying both work beautifully, so you can choose based on what your kitchen and cravings demand.
02 -
  • Pressing your tofu is non-negotiable—wet tofu will steam instead of crisp, and no amount of breading will save it.
  • The marinade time matters more than you'd think; even 10 minutes makes the difference between bland and actually flavorful.
  • Don't skip the oil spray when baking, and don't flip timidly—turn them with confidence halfway through so both sides get that golden crust.
03 -
  • If your breadcrumbs start to clump or get wet during the breading process, toss them with a fork to keep them light and separate.
  • Adding grated vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast to the breadcrumb mixture elevates the umami without changing the technique.
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