Vegan Pan-Fried Tofu Nuggets

5 from 4 votes

These tofu nuggets are made with simple ingredients — just mix the tofu, shape into nuggets, and pan-fry! If you’re looking for a tasty plant-based snack or appetizer, give these a try!

Looking for simple tofu recipes? Try my Tofu Katsu, Vegetarian Tofu Hambagu, or Crispy Fried Tofu!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make with simple, everyday ingredients.
Crispy, meat-free nuggets the whole family will enjoy.
Light, fluffy, and satisfyingly chewy.

Recipe Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make these vegan tofu nuggets:

ingredients for Japanese Style Vegan Tofu Nuggets

Tofu: Choose firm or extra-firm tofu to avoid excess liquid.
Cashew Nuts: Add creaminess and a cheesy flavor to the nuggets.
Panko: A type of breadcrumb with a light and airy texture. It helps absorb moisture from the tofu.
Flour: Use flour to create a crispy coating. Any wheat flour, such as all-purpose or cake flour, will work. For a gluten-free option, use rice flour instead.

How To Make Tofu Nuggets: STEP BY STEP

Here are some quick visual instructions! For the video and all the detailed ingredients and instructions, go to the printable recipe card below.

Step 1

Make a tofu mixture using a food processor.

Step 2

Grab the mixture and roll it to make a ball.

Step 3

Form a nugget shape, coat it with wheat flour, and pan-frying.

Step 4

Pan-fry each side until golden brown.

Here you go! These tofu nuggets are fluffy yet firm and incredibly delicious! The seasoning is mild, with just salt and pepper, so feel free to enjoy them with ketchup, barbecue sauce, hot sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Recipe Tips

If the tofu mixture is too soft to form into nuggets, add more panko to make it firmer.
To prevent the tofu mixture from sticking to your hands while shaping it, sprinkle flour on your palms before forming the nuggets.
After pan-frying the tofu nuggets, place them on paper towels or a wire rack to drain any excess oil.

Storage

Put leftover nuggets in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. The texture will change over time, so please eat them up within the next day.

To freeze, do so before coating with flour. Arrange the formed tofu nuggets on a tray, cover them with plastic wrap, and place them in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store them for up to one month. When you’re ready to eat them, coat the nuggets in flour and fry them while still frozen.

Variations

Enhance the flavor and texture of your vegan tofu nuggets by adding these ingredients to the tofu mixture:

Garlic powder
Onion powder
Nutritional yeast

Your Questions Answered

Can I use silken tofu?

Yes, you can, but the mixture will be softer, so it’s better to add more breadcrumbs.

Is it necessary to press tofu?

Yes, pressing tofu removes excess moisture, making it easier to form the nuggets. However, if you use extra-firm tofu, pressing may not be necessary.

Can I bake the nuggets in the oven?

Yes, you can bake them, though the texture will be different. Bake at 200°C for 15-20 minutes, without coating them in flour.

14 Delicious Ways to Enjoy Tofu

eBook: Everyday Tofu!

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More Tofu Recipes You Will Love

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I hope you enjoy these tofu nuggets! If you try it, don’t forget to leave a rating to share your thoughts—I love hearing from you!