Crispy Tofu Bites Dipping Sauce (Printable)

Crispy tofu cubes paired with a bold sauce. Ideal for snacking, sharing, or topping salads and bowls.

# What You Need:

→ Tofu Preparation

01 - 14 ounces firm tofu
02 - 1 teaspoon salt
03 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Coating

04 - 2 tablespoons cornstarch
05 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

→ For Frying

08 - 3 to 4 tablespoons neutral oil, such as sunflower or canola

→ Dipping Sauce

09 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
10 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
11 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave
12 - 1 teaspoon sesame oil
13 - 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili sauce (optional)
14 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
15 - 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onion

# How To Cook:

01 - Wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel and set a heavy item on top. Let it press for 10 to 15 minutes to remove excess liquid.
02 - Slice the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes, about 3/4-inch on each side. Gently pat dry again if moisture remains.
03 - In a shallow bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
04 - Toss the tofu cubes in the coating mixture. Ensure each piece is evenly coated on all sides.
05 - Heat neutral oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer, keeping space between for even browning. Fry each side for 3 to 4 minutes, turning as needed, until all sides are golden and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
06 - In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, and sriracha. Stir in sesame seeds and chopped green onion.
07 - Present tofu bites hot, accompanied by the dipping sauce.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Uses ingredients from the pantry
  • Ready in just over thirty minutes
  • Completely vegan and easily gluten free
  • Stays crispy and delicious whether as a snack or main dish
02 -
  • Packed with plant based protein
  • Delightfully crunchy and satisfying
  • Vegan and dairy free with gluten free option
  • Keeps well for meal prep and reheating
03 -
  • Always press the tofu longer than you think for maximum crispiness
  • Use fresh oil for cleaner flavor and golden color
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan so every cube fries evenly
  • If you love dipping double the sauce
  • For extra wow sprinkle with freshly chopped herbs or chili flakes just before serving