Crunchy Bang Bang Tofu Recipe: Spicy & Delightful Twist

Sizzling with flavor and packed with irresistible texture, this bang bang tofu recipe promises a culinary adventure that tantalizes taste buds.

crispy golden cubes of tofu dance in a spicy, creamy sauce that delivers an explosion of Asian-inspired deliciousness.

The secret lies in the perfectly seasoned coating that turns simple tofu into a restaurant-worthy dish.

Each bite brings a delightful crunch that melts into a creamy, zesty finish.

Protein lovers and plant-based enthusiasts will find this recipe absolutely addictive.

Vegetarian or not, you’ll fall in love with these irresistible tofu bites that bring serious excitement to your dinner table.

Get ready to become the star of your next meal with this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to impress.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Calories: 380 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Tofu

• Extra-firm Tofu: Provides the perfect protein-packed canvas for crispy coating, select a brand with firm texture for best results.
• Cornstarch: Creates an ultra-crispy exterior that locks in moisture and ensures golden crunch.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Adds light, airy texture and extra crispiness to the tofu coating.

• Garlic Powder: Infuses deep, aromatic flavor without overwhelming the dish.
• Salt: Enhances overall taste and balances the other seasonings.
• White Sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and helps with caramelization.

• Vegan Mayonnaise: Delivers creamy, tangy base for the signature sauce.
• Sriracha: Brings bold, spicy kick that gives the dish its signature heat and excitement.

Equipment to Prepare Bang Bang Tofu

• Mixing Bowl: For combining cornstarch, breadcrumbs, and seasoning.
• Baking Sheet: Large, flat pan for evenly spreading and baking tofu cubes.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents tofu from sticking and ensures crispy edges.
• Kitchen Towel or Paper Towels: Essential for pressing and removing moisture from tofu.
• Knife: Sharp blade for precise cube cutting.
• Dinner Plate: Light weight for pressing tofu.
• Measuring Spoons: For accurate sauce ingredient measurements.
• Spatula or Tongs: Helpful for tossing tofu in sauce and transferring between surfaces.

Instructions to Cook This Crispy Favorite

• Tofu Preparation

Select a block of extra-firm tofu and drain completely. Wrap in clean towels and press out moisture using a weighted plate for about 5 minutes.

• Coating Mixture

Create a crunchy blend of cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, and garlic powder in a mixing bowl.

• Cube and Cover

Slice tofu into bite-sized cubes and gently roll each piece in the coating mixture, ensuring full coverage.

• Oven Transformation

Spread coated tofu cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast at 400 degrees for 40 minutes until golden and crispy.

• Spicy Sauce Creation

Whisk together creamy vegan mayonnaise, fiery sriracha, a touch of sweetness, and a pinch of salt. Adjust liquid for perfect drizzling consistency.

• Final Touch

Toss hot tofu cubes in the zesty sauce until completely glazed. Scatter with red pepper flakes and fresh green onions for a beautiful finish.

• Serving Suggestion

Pile onto a bed of fluffy rice or enjoy as a standalone snack that promises crunch and flavor in every single bite.

Tips to Nail the Coating & Sauce

• Smart Pressing Technique: Use a heavy cast-iron skillet or large cookbook on top of the tofu for maximum moisture removal, creating extra crispy texture.
• Crunch Master Hack: Replace panko with crushed rice crackers or gluten-free cornflakes for alternative crispy coating options that add unique texture.
• Spice Level Control: Adjust sriracha quantity in bang bang sauce to make it mild, medium, or super spicy according to personal heat preference – start with small amounts and taste.
• Flavor Boost Options: Mix in sesame oil, ginger powder, or rice vinegar to the coating mix for deeper, more complex Asian-inspired flavor profiles that complement the crispy tofu.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare coated tofu cubes and sauce separately, storing in airtight containers for up to 3 days – bake just before serving to maintain maximum crispiness and freshness.

Serving Tofu That Packs a Punch

• Flavor Explosion Plate: Serve this crispy tofu over steamed jasmine rice with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a restaurant-quality presentation that maximizes taste and texture.
• Spicy Party Appetizer: Transform these bang bang tofu cubes into a crowd-pleasing finger food by skewering them with toothpicks and offering extra sauce on the side for dipping during gatherings or game nights.
• Fresh Veggie Companion: Create a balanced meal by pairing the tofu with a crisp Asian-inspired salad featuring cucumber, shredded carrots, and a light rice vinegar dressing to complement the spicy sauce.
• Quick Lunch Bowl: Build a satisfying lunch bowl by adding the tofu cubes over mixed greens, quinoa, and a drizzle of additional bang bang sauce for a protein-packed midday meal that keeps you energized.

Planning Storage for Crispy Tofu Meals

• Smart Storage Solutions: Keep leftover tofu in an airtight container within the refrigerator, staying fresh for 3-4 days. Enjoy best when reheated in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
• Freezer-Friendly Strategy: Freeze uncoated tofu cubes on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags. Frozen tofu maintains quality for up to 2 months, perfect for meal prepping ahead.
• Sauce Separation Trick: Store bang bang sauce separately from crispy tofu to prevent sogginess. Keep sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week, ensuring maximum flavor retention.
• Quick Reheat Method: Revive crispy texture by placing tofu cubes on a baking sheet at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwave reheating, which can make the coating soft and lose its delightful crunch.

Irresistible Bang Bang Tofu Recipe

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4.9 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Spicy bang bang tofu delivers a crispy, tangy flavor explosion from Chinese-inspired cuisine. Delicate cubes of tofu shine with creamy sauce and crunchy texture, inviting diners to savor each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 15.5 oz (440 g) extra-firm tofu
• ¼ cup (30 g) cornstarch
• ¼ cup (30 g) panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup (240 ml) vegan mayonnaise
• 2 tbsps (30 ml) sriracha
• ½ tsp white sugar

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Instructions

1. Prep Tofu: Drain water-packed tofu thoroughly, wrap in a clean kitchen towel, and press with a lightweight plate to remove excess moisture.
2. Cube Formation: Slice the pressed tofu into 32 uniform cubes, ensuring precise and consistent sizing.
3. Seasoning Blend: Combine cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, and garlic powder in a mixing bowl, creating a textural coating mixture.
4. Coating Process: Meticulously cover each tofu cube with the seasoned mixture, using fingertips to ensure complete coverage.
5. Oven Preparation: Preheat oven to 400º Fahrenheit and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
6. Roasting Stage: Distribute seasoned tofu cubes evenly on the prepared pan, roasting for 40 minutes until achieving a golden, crispy exterior.
7. Sauce Creation: Whisk vegan mayonnaise, sriracha, sugar, and salt to craft the bang bang sauce, adjusting consistency with water if needed.
8. Final Assembly: Once tofu reaches peak crispiness, generously coat cubes with the zesty sauce and garnish with red pepper flakes and chopped chives or scallions.
9. Serving Suggestion: Plate over fluffy rice or enjoy as a standalone dish, showcasing the crispy, saucy tofu cubes.

Notes

• Press Tofu Perfectly: Remove excess moisture by wrapping in a clean towel and placing a weight on top for crispy texture.
• Coat Thoroughly: Use fingertips to ensure even coverage of cornstarch and panko mixture for maximum crunchiness.
• Oven Positioning Matters: Spread tofu cubes evenly on parchment-lined pan to achieve uniform golden crispness.
• Sauce Consistency Tips: Adjust bang bang sauce with water to create smooth, pourable texture that clings perfectly to crispy tofu.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 29 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 26 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg