Sweet Chili Tofu Nuggets
Golden, crispy tofu bites with a tangy-sweet chili kick that'll make your taste buds dance.
Total: 35 minPrep: 15 minCook: 20 min4 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup plant-based milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Optional: Fresh cilantro for garnish
Steps
- 1 In a bowl, whisk together cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- 2 In another bowl, pour the plant-based milk.
- 3 Dip each tofu cube into the milk, then coat with the cornstarch mixture, shaking off any excess.
- 4 Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry tofu in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- 5 In a small bowl, mix sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
- 6 Toss the tofu nuggets in the sauce until evenly coated.
- 7 Serve warm, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Spatula
- Paper towels
Variations
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the sweet chili sauce mix.
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of cornstarch for a different texture.
Substitutions
- Substitute firm tofu with tempeh for a nuttier flavor.
- Use almond flour in place of cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
Pairings
- Crispy veggie spring rolls
- Steamed jasmine rice
Nutrition
Calories:
320 kcal
Fat:
15g fat
Carbs:
35g carbohydrates
Protein:
12g protein
Fiber:
2g fiber
Sugar:
18g sugar
Sodium:
600mg sodium
Tips
- For extra crispiness, freeze the coated tofu for 15 minutes before frying.
- Ensure oil is hot enough before adding tofu to prevent sticking and ensure a crispy coating.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed rice or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with your favorite dipping sauce like peanut sauce or sriracha mayo.
FAQ
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.