Crispy Tofu Veggie Nuggets

Name: Crispy Tofu Veggie Nuggets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 block firm tofu (14 oz), pressed and drained; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn), finely chopped; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Oil for frying or baking

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I always strive to create meals that are both healthy and delicious, and these Crispy Tofu Veggie Nuggets tick both boxes perfectly. Packed with protein and veggies, they are a hit with family and friends alike. The bonus? They are easy to make and can be on the table in under an hour! Pair them with your favorite dips for a satisfying snack or serve them as part of a balanced meal. I can't wait for you to try these nuggets; they will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:52:15.689Z

When I first tried making veggie nuggets at home, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet delicious they turned out! The secret lies in the right combination of ingredients; the tofu provides a great base while the spices and veggies add fantastic flavor and texture. I’ve experimented with different vegetables, and I found that carrots and peas create a delightful sweetness that balances nicely with the savory notes.

One valuable tip I discovered during my trials is to ensure the tofu is well-pressed to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll never want to buy store-bought nuggets again!

        Why You Will Love These Nuggets
        Crispy and delicious with a satisfying crunch
Packed with nutritious veggies and plant-based protein
A fun and versatile dish great for lunches and snacks

      

Essential Techniques for Perfect Nuggets

The key to achieving that crispy texture in your Crispy Tofu Veggie Nuggets lies in proper moisture removal and the breading process. After pressing the tofu, ensure it’s crumbled into fine pieces. This not only helps with better mixing but also allows for even cooking. When shaping the nuggets, keep your hands slightly damp to prevent sticking. You'll notice that a proper shape aids in achieving a uniform fry, which is crucial for that golden exterior.

Dredging is another critical step to improve the crunch. Instead of just dusting the nuggets, press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the surface. This technique helps create a thicker crust that holds up during frying. If you opt for baking instead, spray the nuggets lightly with oil to promote browning. Aim for an oven temperature of 400°F, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

Firm tofu is recommended for this recipe due to its ability to hold shape when crumbled and shaped into nuggets. If you're avoiding soy, consider using chickpea flour as a base or using mashed sweet potatoes as a binding ingredient. For added flavor, you can mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, which pair well with the nutritional yeast and spices. Just be sure these ingredients are finely chopped to blend well into the mixture.

The choice of vegetables in these nuggets can be highly versatile. While the original recipe suggests carrots, peas, and corn, feel free to experiment with finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just make sure to finely chop these additions to maintain a consistent texture. Additionally, if gluten is a concern, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed rice cereal or ground oats.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Crispy Tofu Veggie Nuggets:

Ingredients

1 block firm tofu (14 oz), pressed and drained
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn), finely chopped
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Oil for frying or baking

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your nuggets:

Prepare the Tofu

Start by pressing the tofu. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, crumble the pressed tofu and add chopped vegetables, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until combined.

Shape the Nuggets

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small nugget shapes. You should get about 12-15 nuggets.

Coat the Nuggets

Set up a dredging station with flour and breadcrumbs. First, coat each nugget in flour, then dip it in water, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.

Cook the Nuggets

In a skillet over medium heat, add enough oil for frying. Once hot, add the nuggets in batches and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Once cooked, drain the nuggets on a paper towel and serve hot.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the veggie mixture based on your preference or what you have on hand. You can also bake the nuggets at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for a healthier option.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Crispy Tofu Veggie Nuggets are fantastic for meal prep! You can make a large batch and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, a quick 10 minutes in a 375°F oven will restore their crunchiness. If you want to make them ahead of time, shape the nuggets and freeze them on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. They can go straight from the freezer to frying without thawing.

When it comes to serving, consider pairing these nuggets with homemade sauces like a tahini dressing or a zesty salsa. This not only adds flavor but also boosts nutritional value. You can also turn them into a colorful bowl by adding quinoa or brown rice, fresh greens, and a dollop of avocado. This transforms a simple snack into a hearty meal that's perfect for lunches or family dinners.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your nuggets are falling apart during frying, double-check that your tofu is pressed adequately, and the mixture is well-combined. Too much moisture can cause them to break. Adding a touch more breadcrumbs can also improve cohesion. Additionally, make sure your oil is hot enough before starting; a sizzle when the nuggets hit the pan is essential. If the oil isn’t hot enough, you risk soggy nuggets instead of the tempting crunch you’re after.

Another issue might arise with the temptation to overcrowd the pan. Fry in small batches to ensure that the oil temperature remains consistent. If the nuggets are too crowded, they can steam instead of fry, leading to a disappointing texture. Aim for a temperature of around 350°F; using a thermometer can help maintain this consistently. You’ll know they’re ready to turn when they release easily from the pan and are golden around the edges.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these nuggets?

Yes, you can freeze them! Once cooked, let them cool, then store in an airtight container. They’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these nuggets?

Great options include ketchup, barbecue sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo. You can also make a yogurt dip for added creaminess!

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to suit your tastes.

→ Are these nuggets gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour substitutes. Always check the labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.