10 crispy tofu recipes
Transform a block of firm tofu into bites of crisp perfection with our umami-rich stir-fries, fakeaway classics and nutrient-boosting salads
Love tofu but struggle to achieve that crispy texture at home? We'll let you in on a secret: you need to start with firm tofu (or extra-firm if you can find it). Give it a press – you don't need any special equipment, simply squeeze out any excess water then wrap the block in kitchen roll; put a heavy chopping board, cast-iron pan or hefty cookbook on top to weigh it down, then leave for 15-30 minutes to squeeze out any remaining water. Read our how to press tofu guide for more handy tips.
Cornflour is another secret weapon when it comes to adding crispiness, plus it's gluten-free. Coat tofu pieces in cornflour – you can also add seasonings at this point to lock in the flavour – then bake, fry or air-fry. Now you're armed with super-crispy tofu, you can add it into salads, stir-fries or just dunk into your favourite dips for a protein-rich snack.
Discover even more tofu recipes, then try our top silken tofu recipes, healthy tofu recipes and smoked tofu recipes.
Top crispy tofu recipes
1. Crispy tofu
Have you ever seen crispier tofu? Our five-star-rated recipe is coated in smoked paprika and garlic granules for ultimate flavour, then fried for crisp perfection. The cornflour coating means it's gluten-free too. Try more vegan gluten-free recipes.
2. Sesame & spring onion stir-fried udon with crispy tofu
This super-speedy noodle dish is not only delicious but easy on the purse strings. It doesn't scrimp on flavour, with ground Szechuan peppercorns and chilli flakes giving a nice kick, plus pressing the tofu improves the texture. Discover more budget vegetarian recipes.
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3. Spice-crusted tofu with kumquat radish salad
The flavours in this Japanese-inspired dish are anything but dull, with a yuzu dressing and shichimi togarashi spice mix. Adding sesame seeds to the tofu coating gives flavour and texture, plus the nutritional benefits of calcium and fibre. Can't get enough? Try more vegetarian Japanese-inspired recipes.
4. Tofu escalopes with black olive salsa verde
Parmesan- and mustard-coated tofu makes a convincing replacement for chicken in this Milanese-style salad with a punchy olive, caper and basil dressing. Toss with watercress and steamed new potatoes for a delicious lunch to serve for friends, best enjoyed al fresco. Try more vegetarian salad recipes.
5. Easy crispy tofu
Sweet chilli, soy sauce and sesame oil bring flavour in its bucketloads to these morsels of umami goodness. Make the most of your air-fryer if you have one, or simply roast in the oven until golden all over. Try more firm tofu recipes.
6. Miso-roasted tofu with sweet potato
Roasting firm tofu is another sure-fire way to clinch crisp success, plus it uses less oil than frying to yield similar results. A simple dressing of mirin, white miso and lime juice adds depth of flavour, while the sweet potatoes and green beans make it a well-rounded lunch or dinner. Get more inspiration with our miso recipes.
7. Air-fryer tofu (popcorn nuggets)
These little bites of panko-crusted tofu make a wholesome snack any time of day. Dunk into your favourite sauce or use as a plant-based protein replacement in salads or stir-fries. Don't skip on pressing your tofu to guarantee the crispiest result. Get inspired with our vegetarian air-fryer recipes.
8. Noodles with crispy tofu
Discover a new midweek favourite with this veggie-packed noodle dish that's great for feeding a family. Put your air-fryer to good use to ensure crispy tofu while you stir-fry the veggies. Try more vegetarian stir-fry recipes for easy weekday inspiration.
9. Salt & pepper tofu
Make your own version of this classic Chinese takeaway at home with crisp tofu and Szechuan and black peppercorns for that classic mouth-numbing tingle. Discover more Chinese fakeaway recipes and our favourite vegetarian fakeaway recipes.
10. Deep-fried tofu with pineapple, sweet chilli & basil
The cornflour coating and deep-frying creates a seriously crisp exterior on these tofu cubes. Fish sauce, Thai basil, tamarind paste and red chillies boost the dish with authentic southeast Asian-inspired flavour. Discover more Thai recipes.
Which one will you be adding to your weekly rotation? Discover more inspiration...
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