Breaded Tofu Strips with BBQ Sauce Recipe
Introduction
These crispy breaded tofu strips are a delicious and satisfying plant-based snack or appetizer. With a crunchy coating and a tangy BBQ sauce for dipping, they’re perfect for a quick bite or party platter.

Ingredients
- 14 to 16 ounces of extra firm tofu
- ½ cup of cornstarch
- ¼ cup of water
- 2 Tablespoons of soy sauce
- ½ cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 Tablespoon of nutritional yeast
- Pinch of salt
- ¼ cup of vegetable oil
- ½ cup of BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut the block into finger-sized strips.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, water, and soy sauce until smooth.
- Step 3: On a plate, mix the breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of salt thoroughly.
- Step 4: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until hot.
- Step 5: Dip each tofu strip into the cornstarch mixture until fully coated, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, covering all sides.
- Step 6: Place the coated tofu strips in the hot pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 7: Transfer the cooked strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, then serve warm with BBQ sauce.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, double dip the tofu strips by repeating the cornstarch and breadcrumb coating before frying.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for gluten sensitivity.
- Try serving with other sauces like ranch or spicy mayo for variety.
- Press the tofu for at least 30 minutes to ensure it crisps up nicely and holds the coating well.
Storage
Store leftover tofu strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven at medium heat to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I bake the tofu strips instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the coated tofu strips at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
What type of tofu is best for this recipe?
Extra firm tofu works best because it holds its shape during cooking and provides a good texture for breading and crisping.
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Breaded Tofu Strips with BBQ Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These crispy Breaded Tofu Strips are a delicious plant-based snack or appetizer, featuring golden tofu coated in a crunchy breadcrumb and nutritional yeast mixture. Pan-fried to perfection and served with tangy BBQ sauce, they make a flavorful, protein-packed alternative to traditional fried finger foods.
Ingredients
Tofu
- 14 to 16 ounces of extra firm tofu
Breading Mixture
- ½ cup of cornstarch
- ¼ cup of water
- 2 Tablespoons of soy sauce
- ½ cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 Tablespoon of nutritional yeast
- Pinch of salt
Cooking
- ¼ cup of vegetable oil
- ½ cup of BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the tofu: Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut the block into finger-sized strips, ensuring uniform shape for even cooking.
- Make the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, water, and soy sauce thoroughly until smooth, creating the coating mixture.
- Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: On a plate, mix together the breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of salt until evenly combined.
- Heat the oil: Place a large pan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil, allowing it to become hot enough for frying.
- Coat the tofu strips: Dip each tofu strip into the cornstarch batter coating it completely, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture making sure all sides are fully covered for a crispy texture.
- Fry the tofu strips: Place the coated tofu strips carefully in the hot oil and cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve: Transfer the cooked tofu strips onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil, then serve warm with the BBQ sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu well is crucial to achieve crispiness and prevent sogginess.
- Use extra firm tofu to maintain shape during frying.
- Can be served with other dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mayo for variation.
- Ensure oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy tofu.
- Double coating is optional for extra crunch but not required.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: breaded tofu strips, crispy tofu, vegan appetizer, fried tofu, plant-based snack

