Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that packs a punch, look no further than these Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and drenched in a zesty buffalo sauce, these bites are perfect for game day, parties, or just a cozy night in. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based options to your menu, these tofu bites will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
Reasons to Love Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites
These Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites are not just a tasty treat; they come with a variety of benefits:
- Healthier Alternative: Loaded with plant-based protein, they offer a healthier spin on traditional buffalo wings.
- Easy to Make: With a simple ingredient list and straightforward steps, anyone can whip these up.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking or add your favorite seasonings.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a football game or a casual dinner, these bites fit right in.
What Goes In
Let’s gather our ingredients for the ultimate vegan indulgence:
- 2 (14-16 ounce) blocks of extra firm tofu, pressed
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil or another high-heat cooking oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/3 cup cornstarch or arrowroot powder for coating
- Celery sticks for serving (optional)
- Ranch dressing for serving (optional)
- 1/2 cup Frank’s Red Hot sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted dairy-free butter
- 2 teaspoons agave syrup
Gear Up: What to Grab
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the following gear:
- Cutting Board: For easy tofu slicing.
- Sharp Knife: To cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces.
- Baking Sheet: A large one to spread out the tofu for even cooking.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine the spices and cornstarch.
- Small Saucepan: For melting the dairy-free butter and mixing the buffalo sauce.
Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites: From Prep to Plate
Ready to make some delicious Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites? Let’s get started!
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu blocks in a clean kitchen towel and place something heavy on top for about 15-20 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Season and Coat
In a mixing bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and kosher salt. Toss the pressed tofu cubes in the spice mixture until well coated. Then, sprinkle the cornstarch (or arrowroot powder) over the tofu and toss gently to coat evenly. This will help achieve that crispy texture.
Step 3: Bake the Tofu
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the coated tofu bites in a single layer. Drizzle the avocado oil over the tofu. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce
While the tofu is baking, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine Frank’s Red Hot sauce, dairy-free butter, and agave syrup. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Once the tofu is out of the oven, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the buffalo sauce over the crispy tofu bites and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately with celery sticks and ranch dressing on the side if desired. Enjoy your Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites!
Seasonal Flavor Boosts
Want to add a little twist to your Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites? Consider these seasonal flavor boosts:
- Smoky Chipotle: Add a teaspoon of chipotle powder to the buffalo sauce for a smoky kick.
- Maple-Balsamic: Substitute agave with maple syrup and add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Herbed Ranch: Mix in dried herbs like dill or parsley into your ranch dressing for an herby twist.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the tofu before serving for a zesty finish.
Troubles You Can Avoid
To ensure your Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Make sure to press your tofu thoroughly to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; this can lead to steaming rather than crisping.
- Flip the tofu halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
- Experiment with the buffalo sauce to find the heat level that suits your taste.
Save It for Later
If you find yourself with leftovers (though they might not last long!), here’s how to store them:
Allow the Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use a different type of tofu?
While extra firm tofu works best for this recipe, you can experiment with firm tofu. Just be aware that it may not hold its shape as well.
Is there a gluten-free option for the sauce?
Yes! You can use gluten-free hot sauce and ensure your dairy-free butter is also gluten-free for a fully gluten-free dish.
Can I air fry these tofu bites instead?
Absolutely! Air frying is a great option. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the tofu bites in batches for about 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
How spicy are these bites?
The spice level will depend on how much buffalo sauce you use and your tolerance for heat. You can adjust the amount of sauce or add other ingredients to suit your taste.
What to Make After This
If you loved these Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites, you might want to try your hand at these delicious recipes:
- Vegan BBQ Cauliflower Wings
- Crispy Chickpea Salad
- Vegan Nachos with Cashew Cheese
- Sweet and Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Save & Share
If you enjoyed making Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites, don’t forget to share your creations on social media! Tag your friends and spread the love for plant-based goodness. Your taste buds will thank you, and so will your friends!
Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites are not just a meal; they are a flavor explosion that brings everyone together. So gather around the table, dip into that ranch, and enjoy every crispy, spicy bite. Your journey into vegan cuisine has just begun, and there’s so much more to explore!
Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Tofu: Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu blocks in a clean kitchen towel and place something heavy on top for about 15-20 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- Step 2: Season and Coat: In a mixing bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and kosher salt. Toss the pressed tofu cubes in the spice mixture until well coated. Then, sprinkle the cornstarch (or arrowroot powder) over the tofu and toss gently to coat evenly. This will help achieve that crispy texture.
- Step 3: Bake the Tofu: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the coated tofu bites in a single layer. Drizzle the avocado oil over the tofu. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce: While the tofu is baking, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine Frank's Red Hot sauce, dairy-free butter, and agave syrup. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Step 5: Toss and Serve: Once the tofu is out of the oven, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the buffalo sauce over the crispy tofu bites and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately with celery sticks and ranch dressing on the side if desired. Enjoy your Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites!
Notes
- Press the tofu thoroughly for maximum crispiness.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to prevent steaming.
- Flip the tofu halfway through baking for even cooking.
