These crispy and crunchy baked tofu bits are the perfect way to enjoy tofu with a deliciously savory crunch. The simple combination of firm tofu, spices, arrowroot, and cornmeal creates a crispy, flavorful snack or topping for bowls, salads, or wraps. Perfect for anyone looking for a plant-based option with texture and flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for crispy baked tofu bits brings a new level of flavor and texture to tofu, transforming it into a crispy, golden, and satisfying dish. The combination of arrowroot starch, cornmeal, and spices gives the tofu a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender. It’s quick and easy, taking just 30 minutes in the oven, and versatile enough to serve in a variety of dishes. Whether tossed on a grain bowl, layered in tacos, or enjoyed as a snack, these tofu bits are a must-try for tofu lovers and anyone new to plant-based eating.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 lb (454 grams) firm or extra firm tofu
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2 tablespoons avocado oil
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Sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons arrowroot starch
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2 tablespoons cornmeal
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2 teaspoons nutritional yeast
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon mild paprika
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¼ teaspoon ground chillies (optional)
Directions
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Press the tofu for 15-30 minutes to remove excess moisture. You can use a tofu press or follow a tool-free guide to press it.
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Once pressed, tear the tofu into small 1 to 2-inch pieces. Place the pieces in a large bowl and blot them dry with a kitchen towel to remove as much moisture as possible.
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Add the avocado oil, sea salt, and ground black pepper to the tofu. Toss to evenly coat the pieces.
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Add the arrowroot starch, cornmeal, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and ground chillies (if using) to the bowl. Toss again with a spatula to evenly coat all the tofu pieces.
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Spread the coated tofu bits on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring each piece has enough space for even cooking.
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Bake for 15 minutes, then stir and flip the tofu pieces over. Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 15 minutes, or until the tofu bits are golden brown and crispy.
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Serve the crispy baked tofu bits immediately!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 3-4
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 25 minutes
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Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
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Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices like Za’atar, Baharat, Montreal steak seasoning, or lemon pepper to adjust the flavor profile to your liking.
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Make it spicy: Add more ground chillies or your favorite hot spice blend for an extra kick.
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Other coatings: Try substituting the cornmeal with breadcrumbs or a mixture of ground nuts for different textures.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftover crispy tofu bits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: To reheat, spread the tofu pieces out on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes at 425°F, or heat in an air fryer at 400°F for a crispy finish.
FAQs
Can I use regular tofu instead of firm tofu?
It’s best to use firm or extra firm tofu for this recipe as regular tofu will not hold its shape and may become too soft when baked.
How do I press tofu if I don’t have a tofu press?
If you don’t have a tofu press, wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, then place a heavy object (like a can or a cast-iron skillet) on top to press out the excess moisture.
Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes, you can make this recipe in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook the tofu in a single layer for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Can I make these crispy tofu bits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and bake the tofu bits ahead of time. Simply store them in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven or air fryer to crisp them back up.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is already gluten-free, but make sure to check that your nutritional yeast and spices do not contain any gluten-containing additives.
Can I use another type of oil instead of avocado oil?
Yes, you can use other oils like olive oil, coconut oil, or vegetable oil if preferred.
What should I serve these crispy tofu bits with?
These crispy tofu bits can be served on top of salads, grain bowls, noodle bowls, or in wraps and tacos. You can also enjoy them with a dipping sauce like BBQ sauce, tahini, or spicy almond dressing.
How do I ensure the tofu gets crispy?
Make sure to press the tofu well to remove excess moisture, and coat the pieces evenly with oil and the starch mixture. Give the tofu enough space on the baking sheet so that each piece can cook evenly and crisp up.
Can I use cornstarch instead of arrowroot starch?
Yes, cornstarch can be used in place of arrowroot starch in this recipe with a 1:1 substitution.
Can I freeze the crispy tofu bits?
Yes, you can freeze the crispy tofu bits. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Conclusion
These crispy and crunchy baked tofu bits are the perfect way to enjoy tofu in a whole new light. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll have a crispy, flavorful topping for salads, bowls, wraps, or even a tasty snack on their own. Whether you’re a tofu lover or new to plant-based meals, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your kitchen.
