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Crispy Breaded Tofu Strips
5 from 78 votes

Crispy Breaded Tofu Strips

Crispy Breaded Tofu Strips are made by marinating firm tofu slabs in a flavorful blend including tamari, ketchup, maple syrup, and spices, then coating them in seasoned breadcrumbs before pan-grilling until brown and crisp. The marinade infuses the tofu with a savory and mildly sweet flavor, while the breadcrumb coating creates a crunchy texture on the outside, contrasting the tender interior. These strips offer a versatile protein option suitable for sandwiches, salads, or dipping.

Prep Time
1 hr
Cook Time
30 mins
Total Time
1 hr 30 mins
Servings: 6
Calories: 120 kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Tofu Marinade:
  • 14 oz tofu I usually use Nasoya Organic non gmo, extra firm or firm, pressed
  • 1 tbsp tamari low sodium or soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tsp maple syrup or other sweetener
  • 1/2 tsp hot sauce optional
  • 2 tsp neutral cooking oil generic cooking oil
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala or 1/2 tsp ground cumin and 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp garlic
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp cornstarch optional, helps the breadcrumbs stick better during grilling, or tapioca starch
Breadcrumb coating:
  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs , use gluten-free crumbs to make gf
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 to 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast optional

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Slice the slab into 6 to 8 rectangles. Press the tofu for half an hour between kitchen towels and under a heavy weight to remove excess moisture. or use Tofu press (before or after slicing).
  2. Mix the marinade ingredients. (Add 1/2 tsp cornstarch to the marinade for extra binding). Dip the tofu in the marinade and coat all sides to make an even coating that is not too thick or too thin. Place the tofu strips in a container with a lid.
  3. Refrigerate for atleast half an hour or longer.
  4. Mix everything under breadcrumb coating. If the breadcrumbs are too large, pulse them a few times in a blender and use.
  5. Place each tofu strip in the breadcrumb mixture. Flip to coat all sides
  6. Heat a grill pan over medium high heat on the stove. Brush oil on the pan and place the breaded tofu on the pan. Cook 7 to 9 minutes each side or until brown strips appear.
  7. Serve with sauces of choice like vegan ranch or a dash of lemon, or slice and to salads, bowls, wraps, sandwiches, etc. Pictured with Butternut Squash Pilaf.

Notes

  • Press tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture before marinating for best texture.
  • Adding 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch to the marinade improves breadcrumb adhesion.
  • For baking, cook at 425°F for 30 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
  • Grilling the baked tofu afterward can add grill marks and flavor.
  • To create a stickier marinade, mix in 2 teaspoons flax seed meal and let sit before coating.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free, if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories 120kcal (6%) Carbohydrates 14g (5%) Protein 6g (12%) Fat 4g (6%) Sodium 545mg (23%) Potassium 181mg (4%) Sugar 3g (6%) Vitamin A 85IU (2%) Vitamin C 0.7mg (1%) Calcium 46mg (5%) Iron 1.4mg (8%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 6 Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 120

% Daily Value*

Calories 120kcal 6%
Carbohydrates 14g 5%
Protein 6g 12%
Fat 4g 6%
Sodium 545mg 23%
Potassium 181mg 4%
Sugar 3g 6%
Vitamin A 85IU 2%
Vitamin C 0.7mg 1%
Calcium 46mg 5%
Iron 1.4mg 8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.