Get ready to revolutionize your plant-based cooking with the most addictive tofu recipe that'll make even meat-lovers do a double-take! Our Vegan Shake and Bake transforms humble tofu into a crispy, golden masterpiece that's not just delicious, but incredibly easy to make. Imagine biting into a perfectly seasoned, crunchy exterior that gives way to a tender, flavorful center - all while keeping things 100% vegan and packed with protein.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 block tofu, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Drain the block of tofu completely and press it between clean kitchen towels or paper towels to remove excess moisture. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes to ensure it's as dry as possible.
- Slice the pressed tofu into even rectangles or triangles, approximately 1/2 inch thick, ensuring uniform size for consistent cooking.
- In a large shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a uniform coating mixture.
- Prepare a separate plate or shallow dish with olive oil for dipping the tofu slices.
- Dip each tofu slice first into the olive oil, ensuring it's lightly coated on all sides, then immediately transfer to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Shake the tofu in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres completely to all surfaces of the tofu slice.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Arrange the coated tofu slices on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu pieces halfway through cooking to ensure crispy coating on both sides.
- Remove from oven when the coating is golden brown and crispy, with the tofu having a firm, slightly chewy texture.
- Let the tofu rest for 2-3 minutes after removing from the oven to allow the coating to set.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as vegan ranch, marinara, or spicy mustard.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Pressing tofu thoroughly is crucial. Use a tofu press or stack heavy books on paper towel-wrapped tofu to remove maximum moisture for the crispiest results.
- Customize Your Coating: Feel free to experiment with the spice blend. Add smoked paprika, dried herbs, or even a pinch of cayenne for extra kick.
- For Extra Crispiness: Consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Give each tofu piece space on the baking sheet to ensure even browning and crisp coating.
- Serve Immediately: These are best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven when the coating is at its crispiest peak.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
