Crispy Tofu Nuggets Holiday

Golden, crunchy tofu nuggets paired with a creamy, festive dip bursting with warm holiday spices—a plant-based treat perfect for gatherings or snacking.

I came up with this recipe for a year-end potluck, and everyone loved the crispy coating and flavorful dip. Even the pickiest eaters went back for seconds.

Ingredients

• Extra-firm tofu: 400 g (14 oz), pressed and cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) cubes
• All-purpose flour (or chickpea flour): 60 g (½ cup), use chickpea flour for gluten-free
• Unsweetened plant-based milk: 120 ml (½ cup)
• Panko breadcrumbs: 100 g (1 cup), gluten-free if needed
• Garlic powder: 1 tsp
• Onion powder: 1 tsp
• Smoked paprika: ½ tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp (plus a pinch for the dip)
• Black pepper: ¼ tsp
• Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp, for baking or frying
• Vegan mayonnaise: 120 g (½ cup)
• Unsweetened plain yogurt (plant-based): 60 g (¼ cup)
• Pure maple syrup: 1 tbsp
• Ground cinnamon: ½ tsp
• Ground nutmeg: ¼ tsp
• Ground ginger: ¼ tsp
• Ground cloves: ⅛ tsp

Instructions

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Prep Oven or Oil:

Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F) or heat oil in a deep skillet for frying. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper if baking.

Set Up Bowls:

Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with plant-based milk, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Bread the Tofu:

Dip each tofu cube first in flour, then in milk, then coat thoroughly with seasoned breadcrumbs.

Bake or Fry:

For baking: Arrange coated tofu cubes on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or spray lightly with vegetable oil. Bake for 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy. For frying: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry tofu nuggets in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Make the Dip:

In a small bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, plant-based yogurt, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt until smooth.

Serve:

Serve tofu nuggets hot with the holiday spice dip on the side.

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These nuggets have become a new family tradition for holiday movie nights. My little cousin always asks for extra dip!

Required Tools

Sharp knife, mixing bowls, baking sheet and parchment paper (or frying pan), whisk, paper towels.

Allergen Information

Contains soy and gluten (unless gluten-free options are used). Always check labels for possible mustard.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories 260, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 20 g, Protein 12 g.

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Quickly slice, dice, grate, and spiralize vegetables for salads, stir fries, and faster everyday meal prep.

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This appetizer brings a festive twist to any table and will disappear quickly. Be sure to make a double batch for a crowd!

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of tofu is best for these nuggets?

Extra-firm tofu works best as it holds its shape well when coated and cooked, providing the perfect texture for crispy nuggets.

→ Can I make these nuggets gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with chickpea flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs respectively.

→ What cooking methods can I use for the tofu nuggets?

You can either bake the tofu nuggets at 220°C for 20 minutes, turning halfway, or pan-fry them in vegetable oil until golden brown.

→ What ingredients give the dip its holiday flavor?

The dip combines vegan mayonnaise, plant-based yogurt, maple syrup, and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.

→ How can I increase the crispiness of the nuggets?

Double-dipping the tofu cubes in plant-based milk and breadcrumbs before cooking enhances the crunchiness.

→ Are there any allergen considerations?

This dish contains soy and possibly gluten depending on ingredient choices; check labels if allergies are a concern.