Tofu Fried Chicken (Printable)

Crispy, tender tofu fried chicken with a satisfying crunch and savory flavor, perfect for vegans and comfort food lovers.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Tofu

01 - 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained
02 - 2 tbsp soy sauce
03 - 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

→ Buttermilk Marinade

04 - 3/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (soy or oat)
05 - 1 tbsp lemon juice
06 - 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)

→ Flour Coating

07 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
08 - 1/3 cup cornstarch
09 - 2 tsp garlic powder
10 - 2 tsp onion powder
11 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
12 - 1 tsp salt
13 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
14 - 1/2 tsp ground white pepper
15 - 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

→ For Frying

16 - 2 1/2 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)

# Directions:

01 - Slice the pressed tofu into 3/4 inch thick slabs or cutlets. Use your hands to gently tear each cutlet into nugget-sized pieces to create a more chicken-like texture.
02 - In a shallow dish, mix the soy sauce and apple cider vinegar. Add the tofu pieces, tossing gently to coat. Allow to marinate for 10 minutes.
03 - In another bowl, combine the plant-based milk with lemon juice and optional hot sauce. Let the mixture sit for 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
04 - In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, white pepper, and cayenne pepper.
05 - Dip each tofu piece into the vegan buttermilk, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture. For extra crispiness, repeat the dipping process a second time.
06 - Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F. Fry the tofu pieces in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
07 - Serve hot immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It delivers that incredible crunch you crave from traditional fried chicken.
  • The marinade ensures every bite is juicy and full of savory flavor.
02 -
  • Do not skip pressing the tofu or the coating will slide right off.
  • Double dredging is mandatory for that real fried chicken crunchiness.
03 -
  • Use a thermometer to ensure your oil stays at 175°C.
  • Let the fried tofu rest on a wire rack to stay crisp.

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