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Buffalo Tofu Bites Recipe

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3.9 from 11 reviews

These crispy Buffalo Tofu Bites are a spicy, flavorful appetizer perfect for sharing or enjoying as a snack during game day. Made with extra firm tofu coated in a seasoned cornstarch mixture, seared to a golden crust, and finished with a tangy buffalo sauce, they bring a delicious vegan twist to classic buffalo wings.

Ingredients

Tofu and Coating

  • 14 oz package extra firm tofu
  • 3 TBSP cornstarch
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ⅛ tsp ground cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste (about a pinch each)

Cooking

  • 2 TBSP coconut oil

Buffalo Sauce

  • 3 TBSP butter, melted
  • 4-5 TBSP “Frank’s Red Hot” sauce

Instructions

  1. Press the Tofu: Drain tofu from its package, slice into two ½-inch planks, and place on a stack of 4-5 folded paper towels. Add another stack on top and set a heavy object, like a cast iron skillet, over it to press out excess water. Leave to press for about 30 minutes before cooking.
  2. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (205°C) to preheat while preparing tofu.
  3. Cut Tofu into Bites: Cut each tofu plank into 8 bite-sized cubes, creating 16 pieces total.
  4. Coat Tofu: In a bowl, combine cornstarch, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle over tofu cubes and gently toss until each piece is evenly coated with no powdery spots remaining.
  5. Sear Tofu: Heat a pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 TBSP coconut oil and swirl to coat. Arrange tofu cubes spaced apart so they don’t touch. Allow the first side to sear undisturbed for about 6 minutes until a golden crust forms, shaking pan occasionally to prevent sticking. Flip each piece and sear the other side for 4-5 minutes. Remove tofu from pan and drain on paper towels.
  6. Make Buffalo Sauce: While tofu is cooking, whisk together melted butter and Frank’s Red Hot sauce in a medium bowl until well combined.
  7. Toss Tofu in Sauce: Combine crispy tofu with ¾ of the buffalo sauce in the bowl and toss gently to coat evenly.
  8. Bake Tofu: Place the sauced tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes at 400°F, flipping halfway through to crisp both sides.
  9. Final Toss and Serve: After baking, toss the tofu in the remaining buffalo sauce for extra flavor. Serve immediately with celery sticks and ranch dressing for dunking.

Notes

  • Pressing tofu is essential to remove excess moisture and achieve a crispy texture.
  • Use extra firm tofu for best results; softer types will not crisp well.
  • Frank’s Red Hot sauce is traditional for buffalo flavor but you can substitute your favorite hot sauce.
  • To make it fully vegan, substitute butter with a plant-based vegan butter.
  • Serve with celery and ranch or blue cheese dressing for a classic buffalo experience.