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Breaded Tofu Bites with Ginger Peanut Sauce is a flavourful, crispy, and satisfying dish that combines the delicate texture of tofu with a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy peanut sauce. Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking for a delicious plant-based option, this dish is versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, snack, or main course.
Description:
- Crispy Tofu Bites: Firm tofu is pressed to remove excess moisture, then coated in a seasoned flour mixture, dipped in plant-based milk, and rolled in breadcrumbs for a golden, crunchy exterior. The tofu is pan-fried or baked until perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Ginger Peanut Sauce: A creamy, umami-packed sauce made with peanut butter, soy sauce, fresh ginger, garlic, and a touch of sweetness from maple syrup. The sauce is slightly tangy, nutty, and has a hint of heat (optional), making it the perfect complement to the crispy tofu.
- Serving Style: The tofu bites can be served on their own as a snack, drizzled with the ginger peanut sauce, or paired with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro, this dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Here’s a delicious recipe for *Breaded Tofu Bites with a Ginger Peanut Sauce* that’s crispy, flavourful, and perfect as an appetizer or snack!
Ingredients
Breaded Tofu Bites
- 1 block 14-16 oz firm or extra-firm tofu
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup plant-based milk or regular milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs panko works great
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil or any neutral oil for frying
Ginger Peanut Sauce
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1-2 tbsp water to adjust consistency
- 1 tsp sesame oil optional, for extra flavour
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes or sriracha optional, for heat
Instructions
- Press the tofu: Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Place a heavy object (like a skillet or books) on top to press out excess moisture for 15-20 minutes. Slice the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
- Prepare the coating: In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, pour the plant-based milk. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
- Coat the tofu: Dip each tofu cube into the flour mixture, then into the milk, and finally into the breadcrumbs, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Cook the tofu:Pan-fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the tofu bites in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding.Bake (optional): Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Set aside: Once cooked, transfer the tofu bites to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Ginger Peanut Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil until smooth.
- Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding chili flakes or sriracha if you like it spicy.
Serving
- Arrange the crispy tofu bites on a plate and drizzle with the ginger peanut sauce, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro for extra flavour. Pair with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
