Crispy Popcorn Tofu Bites (Printable)

Crispy, flavorful tofu cubes with bold seasoning and crunchy texture, perfect for snacking or light meals.

# 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 or Frying

16 - Cooking spray or 2 tbsp neutral oil

# How To Make It:

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

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • That satisfying crunch against creamy tofu interiors happens every single time, no guessing required.
  • They disappear from the plate faster than you can refill the dipping sauce bowl.
  • No special equipment or culinary school degree needed—just patience with the breading station.
02 -
  • Pressing your tofu is non-negotiable—moisture is what prevents crispiness, and skipping this step results in soggy disappointment.
  • Don't skip the marinade time, even if you're in a rush, because those 10 minutes let the flavors penetrate and the tofu absorb seasoning deeper than just a surface coating.
03 -
  • If baking, flip the cubes halfway through and spray again to ensure even browning on all sides without the hassle of flipping mid-flight in hot oil.
  • Make a big batch on Sunday and reheat gently in a low oven—they stay crispy and you have snacks all week without the setup time.
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