Lemon Pepper Tofu Nuggets
Crispy, tangy, and zesty, these lemon pepper tofu nuggets are a game-changer for snack time or appetizers.
Total: 35 minPrep: 20 minCook: 15 minServes 4Difficulty: Easy⭐ 4.7 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup plant-based milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges for serving
Steps
- 1 Cut tofu into 1-inch cubes.
- 2 In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, garlic powder, lemon pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- 3 In another bowl, pour the plant-based milk.
- 4 Dip each tofu cube into the milk, then coat thoroughly with the cornstarch mixture.
- 5 Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 6 Fry tofu nuggets in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- 7 Drain on paper towels.
- 8 Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Variations
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with different seasonings like Italian herbs or paprika.
Substitutions
- Substitute cornstarch with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- Use coconut oil for frying for a dairy-free alternative.
Pairings
- Perfect alongside a Caesar salad or as part of a vegan charcuterie board.
Nutrition
Calories:
220 kcal
Fat:
12g fat
Carbs:
10g carbohydrates
Protein:
14g protein
Fiber:
1g fiber
Sugar:
1g sugar
Sodium:
350mg sodium
Tips
- For extra crispiness, freeze the tofu cubes for 30 minutes before coating.
- Ensure oil is hot enough to prevent tofu from absorbing too much oil.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked nuggets on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 400°F for 20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of ranch or vegan aioli.
- Pair with fresh veggie sticks for a balanced appetizer platter.
FAQ
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Preheat oven to 425°F, place on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.