If you’re looking for a flavorful, crispy, and plant-based dish, this Bang Bang Tofu recipe is a must-try! Inspired by the popular Bang Bang Shrimp, this vegan alternative offers the same deliciously crispy texture and creamy, spicy sauce while keeping things 100% plant-based.
Tofu is an excellent protein source, and when baked or air-fried to golden perfection, it develops an irresistible crunch. Tossed in a sweet, spicy, and tangy Bang Bang sauce, this dish is ideal for a quick meal, appetizer, or party snack.
The best part? It requires minimal ingredients and is incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re a tofu lover or just starting to experiment with plant-based dishes, this recipe will impress your taste buds and become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
1. Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires simple pantry staples and minimal effort while delivering restaurant-quality results.
2. Crispy & Flavorful: The tofu is perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside. The Bang Bang sauce provides the ultimate balance of creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors.
3. Healthy & Protein-Packed: Tofu is an excellent plant-based protein, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying.
4. Versatile: Serve this Bang Bang Tofu as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. It pairs well with rice, noodles, or fresh vegetables.
5. Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level, swap ingredients, or use alternative cooking methods like baking or air frying.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something delicious, this Bang Bang Tofu will quickly become one of your go-to recipes!
Ingredients:
- 1 block (15 oz) extra-firm tofu
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha
- ½ teaspoon white sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Equipment Used:
- Mixing bowls
- Clean kitchen towel or paper towels
- Knife and cutting board
- Baking sheet or air fryer
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Directions & Instructions
1. Press and Cut the Tofu:
Drain the tofu and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Press for 10-15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Once pressed, cut into 1-inch cubes.
2. Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer:
- Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
- Air Fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C).
3. Coat the Tofu:
In a bowl, combine cornstarch, panko, and garlic powder. Toss the tofu cubes in the mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Bake or Air Fry:
- Oven: Arrange tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air Fryer: Place tofu in a single layer and cook for 15 minutes, shaking halfway.
5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together vegan mayo, sriracha, sugar, and salt until smooth.
6. Toss & Serve:
Transfer the crispy tofu to a bowl and gently coat with the Bang Bang sauce. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (4 servings total) contains approximately:
- Calories: 436
- Carbohydrates: 12.5g
- Protein: 11.6g
- Fat: 38.5g
- Fiber: 1.3g
- Sugar: 2.1g
- Sodium: 532mg
To make it healthier, reduce the mayo or swap for a lighter alternative.
Prep Time and Cook Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko.
- Less Spicy: Reduce sriracha or swap with mild chili sauce.
- Extra Crispy: Double coat the tofu in cornstarch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different sauce? Yes! Try teriyaki, sweet chili, or peanut sauce for variety.
2. Can I make this oil-free? Yes, use an air fryer and opt for a light mayo alternative.
3. How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer.
Pro Tips By Lyndy:
- Press Tofu Well: The drier the tofu, the crispier it gets.
- Use Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Serve Immediately: Tofu softens over time, so enjoy fresh!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over jasmine rice or quinoa.
- Add to a Buddha bowl with fresh veggies.
- Pair with a side of steamed greens for balance.
Crispy Bang Bang Tofu Recipe : Easy & Flavorful Vegan Dish
If you’re looking for a flavorful, crispy, and plant-based dish, this Bang Bang Tofu recipe is a must-try! Inspired by the popular Bang Bang Shrimp, this vegan alternative offers the same deliciously crispy texture and creamy, spicy sauce while keeping things 100% plant-based.
- Mixing bowls
- Clean kitchen towel or paper towels
- Knife and cutting board
- Baking sheet or air fryer
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Mixing bowls
- Clean kitchen towel or paper towels
- Knife and cutting board
- Baking sheet or air fryer
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- 1 block (15 oz extra-firm tofu)
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha
- ½ teaspoon white sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Press and Cut the Tofu:
- Drain the tofu and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Press for 10-15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Once pressed, cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer:
- Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
- Air Fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Coat the Tofu:
- In a bowl, combine cornstarch, panko, and garlic powder. Toss the tofu cubes in the mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Bake or Air Fry:
- Oven: Arrange tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air Fryer: Place tofu in a single layer and cook for 15 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together vegan mayo, sriracha, sugar, and salt until smooth.
- Toss & Serve:
- Transfer the crispy tofu to a bowl and gently coat with the Bang Bang sauce. Serve immediately.
Press Tofu Well: The drier the tofu, the crispier it gets.
Use Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
Serve Immediately: Tofu softens over time, so enjoy fresh!