Air Fryer Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (8 ounce) extra-firm tofu
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 tablespoons unsweetened rice milk
• cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• cup vegan Buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank's)

Directions

1. Remove the tofu block from the package and discard the liquid. Wrap the tofu in cheesecloth, place it on a plate, and cover with a heavy pot. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to squeeze out the remaining liquid.
2. Once the tofu has been pressed, unwrap it and cut it into 20 bite-sized (1-inch) pieces. Place the tofu in a freezer-safe and freeze for at least 8 hours or overnight.
3. After freezing, remove the tofu from the freezer and allow it to thaw on paper towels or a dry cheesecloth. Once thawed, gently pat the tofu dry to remove excess moisture.
4. While the tofu is thawing, place cornstarch in a resealable plastic bag. Pour rice milk into a small bowl and set aside.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 375F (190C).
6. Once the tofu is dry, place the tofu pieces in the bag with cornstarch, seal the bag, and shake well to coat the tofu evenly.
7. Next, dredge each piece of tofu in rice milk.
8. In a separate resealable plastic bag, combine the panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper. Shake until the ingredients are well mixed.
9. Place each tofu piece one at a time into the bag with the bread crumbs mixture. Shake the bag gently until the tofu is fully coated, then tap lightly to remove excess coating. Place the coated tofu on a wire rack and repeat with the remaining pieces.
10. Transfer the coated tofu to the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes. Shake the basket to loosen the tofu pieces, then cook for an additional 3 minutes or until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
11. In a bowl, pour cup of Buffalo sauce. Add the cooked tofu and toss to coat evenly. Drizzle the remaining Buffalo sauce over the tofu and continue tossing until fully coated.
12. Serve the crispy Buffalo tofu bites immediately and enjoy!

Tips

Freezing the tofu is an important step in this recipe, as it gives the tofu a chewy texture that is essential to the final result.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	35
Total Fat	1g
Saturated Fat	0g
Sodium	243mg
Total Carbohydrate	6g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Total Sugars	0g
Protein	2g
Calcium	40mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	15mg

Servings Per Recipe: 20

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History

The origin of Buffalo sauce dates back to the 1960s in Buffalo, New York. The sauce, made from a combination of hot sauce and butter, was first introduced at the Anchor Bar by Teressa Bellissimo. Over the years, it became a staple in American cuisine, especially popular for its use on chicken wings. As the demand for plant-based foods has grown, the concept of vegan alternatives to traditional buffalo wings has emerged, with tofu serving as a perfect substitute for meat. The "Buffalo Tofu Bites" combine the zesty heat of Buffalo sauce with tofu's ability to soak up flavors, creating a satisfying and cruelty-free snack.

Regional Variations

Buffalo-style dishes are typically associated with the Buffalo region in New York, where they are traditionally made with chicken wings. However, in recent years, these spicy dishes have spread throughout the United States and beyond. In some regions, variations of Buffalo tofu bites are common, especially in areas with a strong vegan or vegetarian culture, such as California and Portland. Some versions add extra seasonings or switch up the Buffalo sauce for different hot sauces or flavors, offering a local twist on this beloved snack.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Buffalo Tofu Bites stand out from other similar dishes, such as Buffalo cauliflower or classic Buffalo wings, due to the unique texture and flavor of tofu. Unlike cauliflower, which is often more delicate, tofu provides a firmer, chewier bite that mimics the texture of meat. Furthermore, tofu readily absorbs the tangy, spicy Buffalo sauce, creating a satisfying contrast. Unlike chicken wings, tofu bites are a plant-based alternative that caters to vegans, vegetarians, and those looking to reduce their meat consumption without compromising on flavor or texture.

Where to Serve

Air Fryer Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites are perfect for casual gatherings, parties, and game days. They are often served as appetizers or snacks, either as a standalone dish or with sides like celery sticks and vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing. They are also a great addition to a larger meal, such as a vegan wrap, salad, or sandwich. Whether at a BBQ, potluck, or a family dinner, these tofu bites bring bold flavors and a satisfying crunch that can be enjoyed by both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Fun Facts

1. Freezing tofu before cooking helps to give it a chewy, meat-like texture. This technique, which is central to this recipe, also allows tofu to absorb sauces more effectively.
2. The combination of tofu and Buffalo sauce not only satisfies your cravings for spicy and crispy foods, but it's also a healthier option than traditional fried snacks.
3. Buffalo sauce, a key ingredient in this dish, is incredibly versatile. Beyond tofu, it can be used to enhance a variety of dishes, from veggie burgers to French fries and even popcorn!
4. Tofu itself is a great source of plant-based protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, making these bites a nutritious snack.

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