Popcorn Tofu Bites (Printable)

Crunchy, flavorful tofu bites with savory spices and crispy coating, ideal for quick snacking or appetizers.

# What You'll Need:

→ Tofu

01 - 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 3/4-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 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
08 - 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

→ Breading

09 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or chickpea flour for gluten-free
10 - 1/4 cup unsweetened plant milk
11 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, gluten-free if needed
12 - 1 tsp dried oregano
13 - 1 tsp sweet paprika
14 - 1/2 tsp salt
15 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

→ For Baking/Frying

16 - Cooking spray or 2 tbsp neutral oil

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F or heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F for frying.
02 - Whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and black pepper. Add tofu cubes and toss gently to coat. Marinate for at least 10 minutes.
03 - Arrange three bowls containing flour, plant milk, and seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with oregano, paprika, salt, and cayenne respectively.
04 - Dredge each tofu cube in flour, dip in plant milk, then coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
05 - For baking: Arrange breaded cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with cooking spray, and bake 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway until golden and crisp. For frying: Fry cubes in hot oil 2 to 3 minutes per side until evenly golden; drain on paper towels.
06 - Present hot with preferred dipping sauce.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • They're genuinely crispy on the outside, tender inside—no soggy vegan protein moment.
  • Takes less than 40 minutes total, so you can make them for unexpected guests without stress.
  • Works as a snack, appetizer, or protein boost on salads, and everyone asks for the recipe.
02 -
  • If your tofu isn't pressed dry enough, the steam will make your breadcrumbs soggy no matter what—this is the most common fail, and it's an easy fix.
  • Turning the baked cubes halfway through is not optional; it's what gives you that crispy all-over finish instead of a soft bottom.
03 -
  • A spray bottle of plant milk works better than dipping if you want more control and less waste.
  • The oil temperature for frying matters—too cool and they absorb oil and feel greasy; too hot and the outside burns before the inside cooks through.
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