These baked buffalo tofu bites bring the heat when it comes to snacking. Whether you are a tofu novice or connoisseur, this recipe is for you. Just be sure to spend the time it takes to drain the water from the tofu blocks or else you will end up with a chewier buffalo bite. Not a fan of heat? Then try swapping the buffalo seasonings for something mild, like Italian seasoning or everything bagel seasoning. The cooking method is the same, just customize the flavor and seasoning based on your favorite.
Which Tofu Do You Buy?
Tofu is a delicious source of plant-based protein that is super easy to make, even for first time tofu chefs. Buffalo tofu bites are crispy on the outside, tender and creamy in the center. You will also notice that tofu comes in a few different textures; soft, firm and extra firm being the most common. The firmer the tofu the less water content it holds. This is why extra firm tofu is the best choice for making crispy tofu. The drier your tofu is, the crispier it will be.
Baked Tofu Tips
The less water in the tofu the crispier it will be, and pressing the tofu helps to press out even more water. If you do not have a tofu press, kitchen towels or paper towels do the trick too. Once you have your tofu cut, lay the pieces between two lint-free dish towels, and then look around your kitchen for some heavy objects, like rimmed baking sheets and or a cast iron skillet. You can also use a tea kettle or some canned soup or beans to help add some extra weight.
Beyond Bite Ideas for Enjoying Tofu
These tofu bites are delicious all on their own, but there are endless ways to enjoy as well. They are delicious served with your favorite dipping sauce, as a topper for salads, or as a filling for tacos and wraps.
Buffalo Tofu Bites
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
1 block (about 14 ounces) extra-firm tofu, drained
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 Tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons ground mustard
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Vegetable oil cooking spray
Celery and carrot sticks for serving, if desired
Directions:
Slice tofu block into 2 or 3 slabs about 3/4 to 1 inch thick. Press out additional water using a tofu press, or place slabs side-by-side on paper towels on a flat surface. Cover with another layer of paper towel and place a cutting board on top. Stack heavy cans or pots on the cutting board and let sit for 15 to 30 minutes. Remove paper towels and cut tofu into 3/4 inch cubes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine tofu with olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, ground mustard, paprika, black pepper and cayenne pepper and toss gently to coat.
Spray baking sheet with vegetable oil cooking spray. Place tofu on prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake at 400° F for 15 minutes. Remove from oven, turn over each tofu bite, and bake for 15 more minutes.
Serve with our homemade Ranch dip and carrots and celery, if desired.
Nutrition Information Per Serving: 156 Calories; 9 grams Fat; 1 gram Saturated Fat; 0 mg Cholesterol; 57 mg Sodium; 10 grams Carbohydrates; 3 grams Fiber; 12 grams Protein
Homemade Ranch Dip
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk
1/2 cup fat-free sour cream
2 teaspoons dried dill
1 tablespoon fresh parsley
1 teaspoon ground mustard
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions:
Add ingredients to mixing bowl and stir to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Nutrition Information Per Serving: 59 Calories; 1 gram Fat; 0 grams Saturated Fat; 5 mg Cholesterol; 108 mg Sodium; 9 grams Carbohydrates; 0 grams Fiber; 2 grams Protein
Looking for more nutrition advice and want to make an appointment with a registered dietitian? Call 1-855-434-5483 or visit Nutrition Services on henryford.com.
