Super Bowl Party Food Crispy Tofu Nuggets

Name: Super Bowl Party Food Crispy Tofu Nuggets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 block of firm tofu, drained and pressed; 1 cup of breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon of garlic powder; 1 teaspoon of onion powder; 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon of salt; 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper; 1/2 cup of plant-based milk; 2 tablespoons of soy sauce; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love whipping up these crispy tofu nuggets for game day! They're such a hit at Super Bowl parties and offer a satisfying crunch that's hard to resist. The flavor is incredibly tasty, thanks to the marinade and the crispy coating. Plus, they’ve become a go-to for me when I’m looking for something both comforting and easy to prepare. Trust me, these nuggets are sure to impress your friends and family, proving that plant-based snacks can be just as delicious as traditional options!

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-10T10:55:47.923Z

When I first tried making crispy tofu nuggets, I was amazed at how simple and delicious they turned out! I marinated the tofu to add flavor, and then I coated it in a seasoned breadcrumb mix for that perfect crunch. The trick is to allow the tofu to absorb the marinade for at least 15 minutes—trust me, the flavor payoff is worth the wait!

I've experimented with various dipping sauces, but my favorite is a spicy sriracha mayo that adds just the right kick. These nuggets are not only a great game day snack but also make for an excellent appetizer anytime. I love serving them with a side of fresh veggies for a well-rounded treat!

        Why You'll Love These Crispy Tofu Nuggets
        Crispy on the outside, tender inside – a fantastic texture!
Packed with flavor from the marinade and spices used.
A perfect game day snack that everyone can enjoy.

      

Mastering Texture and Flavor

The key to achieving the perfect crispy texture is in the marinating and coating process. When you let the tofu soak in the plant-based milk and soy sauce, it absorbs moisture and flavor, creating a more dynamic taste experience. Be sure to use firm tofu for the best results, as it holds its shape well during frying. If you prefer a richer taste, consider adding a splash of nutritional yeast or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.

For the breadcrumb coating, using panko breadcrumbs will give your nuggets an extra crunch. You can also experiment with adding grated nutritional yeast or finely chopped herbs like parsley or oregano to the coating mix. This not only enhances flavor but adds a delightful visual appeal, making your nuggets even more enticing.

Frying Techniques for Perfection

Achieving the golden brown perfection of your tofu nuggets depends largely on your frying technique. Preheat your oil to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the nuggets. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the nuggets will absorb too much oil and become greasy instead of crispy. To test if your oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it bubbles and browns quickly, you’re good to go.

Frying in batches is crucial to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking. Aim for 4-6 pieces per batch, frying for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they reach a beautifully golden finish. After frying, place them on paper towels, allowing them to drain excess oil while keeping the nuggets crispy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your crispy tofu nuggets:

For the Tofu Nuggets

1 block of firm tofu, drained and pressed
1 cup of breadcrumbs
1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of onion powder
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
1/2 cup of plant-based milk
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
Oil for frying

Make sure to prepare your ingredients before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Now it’s time to make these delicious crispy tofu nuggets:

Prepare the Tofu

Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes. In a bowl, combine the plant-based milk and soy sauce, then add the tofu cubes. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Create the Coating

In a separate bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Coat the Tofu

Once the tofu has marinated, take each piece and coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it's fully covered.

Fry the Nuggets

In a frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. Fry the coated tofu nuggets for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Remove the nuggets from the pan and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

Enjoy your homemade crispy tofu nuggets while cheering for your favorite team!

Pro Tips

Don't skip the marinating step! It enhances the flavor significantly. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different spices in the breadcrumb mixture for a unique twist each time.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy tofu nuggets are incredibly versatile! Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces such as spicy sriracha, creamy ranch, or tangy barbecue for an exciting flavor combination. You could also serve them alongside a fresh salad or slaw for a balanced meal, making them a hit even among non-vegans during your Super Bowl gathering.

For an extra layer of enjoyment, consider making a dipping sauce by mixing plant-based yogurt with herbs and lemon juice for a refreshing and bright contrast to the savory nuggets. This will not only enhance the overall flavor profile but also elevate your dish presentation, enticing guests to indulge.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you’re planning for a busy game day, you can prepare these tofu nuggets in advance. Once breaded, the nuggets can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying, allowing the flavors to meld even further. For longer storage, consider freezing the breaded nuggets; just layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months!

When you're ready to cook the frozen nuggets, simply fry them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time. This way, you can enjoy freshly fried, crispy tofu nuggets without the last-minute rush, ensuring you’re fully ready to cheer for your team!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these tofu nuggets instead of frying?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the nuggets for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I use other types of tofu?

Firm tofu works best for this recipe, but you can experiment with deep-fried or extra-firm tofu for different textures.

→ What sauces pair well with these nuggets?

Try serving them with sriracha mayo, BBQ sauce, or a tangy sweet chili sauce for dipping!