Name: Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray; 14 oz tofu; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp pepper; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp cornstarch; ½ cup milk; 1 tsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp dijon mustard; ½ cup Bread crumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tbsp nutritional yeast; 1 tsp ground cumin; ¼ tsp cayenne; olive oil; honey mustard dipping sauce

Discover a delectable way to enjoy tofu with these crispy baked tofu tenders. Perfectly seasoned and baked to golden brown perfection, they make a fantastic snack or meal.

Photos of Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders Recipe

A few ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in every kitchen. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, umami flavor without dairy. Apple cider vinegar provides a slight tang to the batter. Ensure you pick up these unique items during your supermarket trip.

Ingredients for Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders Recipe

Nonstick cooking spray: Used to grease the baking sheet and prevent sticking.

Tofu: The main ingredient, providing a protein-rich base.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the tofu.

Pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.

All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the coating mixture.

Cornstarch: Adds crispiness to the coating.

Milk: Used in the batter to help the coating stick.

Apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor to the batter.

Dijon mustard: Infuses the batter with a subtle, spicy note.

Bread crumbs: Forms the crunchy outer layer.

Garlic powder: Adds a savory, aromatic flavor.

Paprika: Provides color and a mild, smoky taste.

Onion powder: Contributes a subtle, sweet onion flavor.

Nutritional yeast: Adds a cheesy, umami flavor.

Ground cumin: Provides an earthy, warm flavor.

Cayenne: Adds a spicy kick.

Olive oil: Helps achieve a crispy texture when baking.

Honey mustard dipping sauce: A sweet and tangy dip to complement the tenders.

One reader, Herman Kane says:

These crispy baked tofu tenders are a game-changer! Perfectly seasoned and incredibly crunchy, they make a fantastic snack or meal. The honey mustard dipping sauce is the perfect complement. Highly recommend!

Herman Kane

Techniques Required for Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders Recipe

How to press tofu: Wrap the tofu in a clean dish towel and place a heavy object, such as a cast-iron skillet, on top. Press the tofu for 20 minutes to remove excess liquid. How to slice tofu: Flip the tofu block on its side, then slice in half lengthwise. Cut each piece of tofu lengthwise into quarters so there are 8 equally-sized pieces. How to coat tofu: Take a piece of tofu and coat it in the flour mixture, followed by the milk mixture, then back into the flour mixture, back into the milk mixture, and finally, into the bread crumbs. How to bake tofu: Place the coated tofu on a prepared baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

How To Make Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders

These crispy baked tofu tenders are made with flavorful seasonings and spices, then baked to crispy perfection for a delectable snack!

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

nonstick cooking spray
14oztofu,(1 block), extra firm, drained
1tspsalt,plus more to taste, divided
½tsppepper,plus more to taste, divided
½cupall-purpose flour
1tbspcornstarch
½cupmilk,of choice
1tspapple cider vinegar
1tspdijon mustard
½cupbread crumbs
1tspgarlic powder
1tsppaprika
1tsponion powder
1tbspnutritional yeast
1tspground cumin
¼tspcayenne
olive oil,for brushing
honey mustard dipping sauce,for serving

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Grease a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
Wrap the tofu in a clean dish towel and place a heavy object, such as a cast-iron skillet, on top. Press the tofu for 20 minutes to remove excess liquid.
Flip the tofu block on its side, then slice in half lengthwise. Season all over with salt and pepper. Cut each piece of tofu lengthwise into quarters so there are 8 equally-sized pieces.
In a medium bowl, combine the flour and cornstarch. Mix with a fork.
In a separate medium bowl, combine the milk, apple cider vinegar, and dijon mustard. Whisk with a fork until combined.
In another medium bowl, combine the bread crumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, nutritional yeast, cumin, and cayenne. Mix with a fork until combined.
Take a piece of tofu and coat it in the flour mixture, followed by the milk mixture, then back into the flour mixture, back into the milk mixture, and finally, into the bread crumbs.
Place on the prepared baking sheet and repeat with the remaining tofu sticks.
Using a brush, coat each tender with an even layer of olive oil.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Brush with more olive oil, if necessary.
Serve with honey mustard dipping sauce, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 536.62kcal
Fat: 21.31g
Saturated Fat: 4.18g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.32g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.11g
Carbohydrates: 60.88g
Fiber: 7.27g
Sugar: 6.88g
Protein: 30.15g
Cholesterol: 6.10mg
Sodium: 825.77mg
Calcium: 549.11mg
Potassium: 563.78mg
Iron: 7.67mg
Vitamin A: 62.32µg
Vitamin C: 0.98mg

Technique Tip for Achieving Perfect Crispiness

When pressing tofu, make sure to use a clean dish towel or paper towels to absorb the excess liquid effectively. This step is crucial for achieving the desired crispy texture. If you have extra time, you can press the tofu for up to an hour for even better results. Additionally, using a cast-iron skillet or another heavy object ensures that the tofu is evenly pressed, which helps it to cook more uniformly.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders

Press tofu ahead: Press the tofu the night before and store it in the fridge to save time.

Pre-mix coatings: Combine the flour mixture, milk mixture, and bread crumbs mixture in separate containers ahead of time.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper instead of using nonstick cooking spray for quicker cleanup.

Double batch: Make a double batch and freeze the extra tofu tenders for a quick meal later.

Quick marinade: Marinate the tofu in the milk mixture for 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders Recipe

nonstick cooking spray - Substitute with parchment paper: Parchment paper can prevent sticking without adding extra oil or calories.
14 oz tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh has a firmer texture and a nutty flavor, making it a good alternative for tofu in this recipe.
1 tsp salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a similar salty flavor along with a bit of umami.
½ tsp pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.
½ cup all-purpose flour - Substitute with rice flour: Rice flour is gluten-free and creates a similar crispy texture when baked.
1 tbsp cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder acts as a similar thickening agent and is also gluten-free.
½ cup milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in coating mixtures.
1 tsp apple cider vinegar - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar acidity and can help in curdling non-dairy milk.
1 tsp dijon mustard - Substitute with yellow mustard: Yellow mustard can provide a similar tangy flavor, though it is slightly milder.
½ cup bread crumbs - Substitute with panko bread crumbs: Panko bread crumbs are lighter and can create an even crispier texture.
1 tsp garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a more intense and aromatic garlic flavor.
1 tsp paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the flavor profile.
1 tsp onion powder - Substitute with dried minced onion: Dried minced onion offers a similar flavor with a bit more texture.
1 tbsp nutritional yeast - Substitute with grated parmesan cheese: Grated parmesan cheese provides a similar umami flavor, though it is not vegan.
1 tsp ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander offers a different but complementary earthy flavor.
¼ tsp cayenne - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder provides a similar heat with additional complexity from other spices.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for baking.
honey mustard dipping sauce - Substitute with maple mustard dipping sauce: Maple mustard offers a similar sweet and tangy flavor without using honey, making it vegan-friendly.

Presenting Your Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the tofu tenders into bite-sized pieces to create a refined and elegant presentation. This allows for a more delicate and sophisticated dining experience.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. This adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Create a dipping sauce presentation: Serve the honey mustard dipping sauce in a small, elegant ramekin or a mini sauce boat. Place it strategically on the plate to enhance the visual appeal.
Add texture contrast: Include a small side of microgreens or a light salad with a simple vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the crispy tofu tenders.
Use high-quality plating: Choose a sleek, modern plate with a neutral color to make the tofu tenders stand out. The plate should be large enough to allow for ample negative space, emphasizing the elegance of the dish.
Drizzle with olive oil: Just before serving, lightly drizzle the tofu tenders with a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This adds a glossy finish and enhances the flavor profile.
Incorporate height: Stack the tofu tenders in a neat, vertical arrangement. This adds visual interest and creates a dynamic presentation that draws the eye.
Use edible flowers: Add a few edible flowers to the plate for a touch of sophistication and color. This elevates the dish and makes it visually stunning.
Balance flavors: Ensure that each element on the plate complements the tofu tenders. The honey mustard dipping sauce should provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory, crispy tofu.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Every element should be thoughtfully arranged to create a harmonious and visually appealing presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders

Nonstick cooking spray: Used to grease the baking sheet to prevent the tofu tenders from sticking.
Clean dish towel: Utilized to wrap the tofu for pressing out excess liquid.
Cast-iron skillet: Acts as a heavy object to press the tofu and remove excess moisture.
Baking sheet: The surface on which the tofu tenders are baked.
Medium bowl: Needed for mixing the flour and cornstarch, the milk mixture, and the bread crumb mixture.
Fork: Used for mixing the ingredients in the bowls.
Brush: Utilized to coat the tofu tenders with olive oil before baking.
Oven: Preheated to 425 degrees F for baking the tofu tenders.
Knife: Used to slice the tofu into equally-sized pieces.
Cutting board: The surface on which the tofu is sliced.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the spices and other small quantity ingredients.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the flour, milk, and bread crumbs.

Storing and Freezing Your Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders

To store leftover crispy baked tofu tenders, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for up to 4-5 days.
For optimal crispiness, reheat the tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
To freeze the tenders, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours or until the tenders are frozen solid. This step prevents the tenders from sticking together when frozen.
Once frozen, transfer the tenders to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
Frozen tofu tenders can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen tenders, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the frozen tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy. No need to thaw the tenders before reheating.
Note: Freezing and reheating the tenders may result in a slightly different texture compared to freshly baked tenders, but they will still be delicious and crispy.

How To Reheat Leftover Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover crispy baked tofu tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated through and crispy again. This method helps maintain the original texture and crispiness of the tenders.
For a quicker option, use an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the tofu tenders in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tenders are heated through and crispy.
If you prefer a stovetop method, heat a small amount of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover tenders and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this may cause the tenders to steam rather than crisp up.
Microwave reheating is not recommended for crispy tofu tenders, as it will result in a soft and soggy texture. However, if you must use a microwave, place the tenders on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 30-second intervals until warmed through. To help maintain some crispiness, place a damp paper towel over the tenders while microwaving.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, avoid reheating the honey mustard dipping sauce, as it may separate or become too thin. Instead, serve the reheated tenders with fresh dipping sauce on the side.

Random Fact About Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders

A random fact about this recipe is that pressing the tofu before cooking helps to remove excess moisture, allowing it to absorb more flavors and achieve a crispy texture when baked.

Is Making Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders at Home Economical?

This crispy baked tofu tenders recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, tofu, is affordable and provides a protein-packed alternative to meat. Pantry staples like flour, bread crumbs, and spices keep costs low. The use of milk and apple cider vinegar adds minimal expense. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12. Considering the nutritional value and satisfying crunch, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness and taste.

Are Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders Healthy or Unhealthy?

The crispy baked tofu tenders recipe is a healthier alternative to deep-fried tenders. By baking the tofu instead of frying, the recipe reduces the amount of oil needed, thus lowering the calorie and fat content. The use of whole ingredients like tofu, flour, and breadcrumbs provides a good source of protein and fiber. The seasoning mix adds flavor without relying heavily on salt, making it a more balanced option.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative like chickpea flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Use a plant-based milk alternative, such as unsweetened almond milk, to reduce the dairy content and make the recipe suitable for those with lactose intolerance or following a vegan diet
Experiment with different breadcrumb options, such as panko or crushed nuts, to add variety and potentially increase the nutrient profile
Serve the tenders with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Tofu Tender Recipe

This crispy baked tofu tenders recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of spices and nutritional yeast in the breading adds depth, while the double coating process ensures a satisfying crunch. Pressing the tofu is crucial for achieving the right texture, and the use of apple cider vinegar in the milk mixture helps create a tangy undertone. Baking at a high temperature with a brush of olive oil results in a golden, crispy exterior. Paired with honey mustard dipping sauce, these tenders offer a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional fried options.

Enhance Your Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the crispy, golden perfection of these tofu tenders paired with the earthy sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The caramelized edges of the sprouts provide a delightful contrast to the tender tofu, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli: Complement your tofu tenders with a side of sweet potato fries that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Dip them in a spicy aioli that adds a creamy, fiery kick, enhancing the savory notes of the tofu and creating a symphony of taste that dances on your palate.

Quinoa Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: For a refreshing and nutritious side, serve a vibrant quinoa salad tossed with a zesty citrus vinaigrette. The nutty quinoa, combined with fresh vegetables and a burst of citrus, offers a light and invigorating complement to the rich, crispy tofu tenders.

Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Elevate your meal with garlic parmesan asparagus, where tender asparagus spears are roasted to perfection and sprinkled with parmesan cheese and a hint of garlic. This side dish adds a touch of elegance and a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the tofu tenders.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Add a tropical twist to your tofu tenders with a refreshing mango avocado salsa. The creamy avocado and juicy mango chunks, mixed with a hint of lime and cilantro, create a vibrant and flavorful side that brightens up the plate and tantalizes your taste buds.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders

Spicy Cauliflower Bites: Turn up the heat with these crispy, oven-baked cauliflower bites. Coated in a spicy batter and served with a cooling ranch dip, they make the perfect appetizer or snack.

Zucchini Fritters: These golden-brown zucchini fritters are a delightful way to enjoy your veggies. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a tangy yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast.

Buffalo Chickpea Nuggets: Packed with protein and flavor, these buffalo chickpea nuggets are a fantastic meatless alternative. Pair them with a classic buffalo sauce and some celery sticks for a game-day treat.

Sweet Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these sweet potato wedges are seasoned to perfection. Serve them with a smoky chipotle mayo for a delicious twist.

Stuffed Mushroom Caps: These savory stuffed mushroom caps are filled with a delectable mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs. Perfect as an appetizer or a side dish, they are sure to impress your guests.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders

Main Courses:

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Transform your dinner table with these vibrant stuffed bell peppers. Filled with a savory mixture of quinoa, black beans, and corn, these peppers are seasoned with cumin and smoked paprika. Topped with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, they offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Serve with a side of avocado slices and a dollop of sour cream for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in the creamy goodness of mushroom risotto. This classic Italian dish features arborio rice cooked to perfection in a rich vegetable broth, infused with the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and shallots. A splash of white wine adds depth, while a generous helping of Parmesan cheese brings a luxurious finish. Garnish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of truffle oil for an elevated dining experience that’s sure to impress.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, fluffy cake. This dessert is a showstopper, perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a decadent treat. The warm, gooey chocolate flows out as you cut into the cake, creating a luxurious experience with every bite. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries for a touch of elegance.

Lemon Meringue Pie: This classic dessert features a tangy lemon filling nestled in a buttery, flaky crust, topped with a cloud of toasted meringue. The contrast between the zesty lemon curd and the sweet, airy meringue creates a harmonious balance of flavors. Serve it chilled for a refreshing finish to any meal. For an extra touch, add a twist of lemon zest on top of the meringue and a few mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Why trust this Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders Recipe:

This recipe for crispy baked tofu tenders is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. The combination of all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and bread crumbs ensures a perfectly crispy texture, while the blend of spices and nutritional yeast adds a burst of flavor. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks. Plus, baking instead of frying makes it a healthier option without sacrificing taste. Trust this recipe for a satisfying and guilt-free meal.

Want to share your experience making these Crispy Baked Tofu Tenders or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the discussion!

FAQ:

How do I make sure the tofu gets crispy?

Pressing the tofu is key to getting it crispy. Make sure to press it for at least 20 minutes to remove as much liquid as possible. Also, don't skip the step of coating the tofu with olive oil before baking.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Absolutely! You can use any type of milk you prefer, whether it's dairy or plant-based. Just make sure it's unsweetened to avoid altering the flavor.

What can I use instead of nutritional yeast?

If you don't have nutritional yeast, you can skip it or substitute it with grated Parmesan cheese for a similar umami flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover tofu tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and gluten-free bread crumbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.