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Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad Recipe

Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad Recipe

5.2 from 30 reviews

This Crispy Buffalo Tofu recipe is a flavorful and guilt-free alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Featuring perfectly crispy tofu coated in a spicy, buttery buffalo sauce, it’s an excellent protein-packed addition to salads, wraps, or served as a snack with dipping sauces. Quick to prepare and air fry, this dish combines bold flavors and satisfying crunch with a healthy twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu and Coating

  • 16 ounce package of firm or extra firm tofu
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Buffalo Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)

Serving Suggestion

  • Salad with Caesar, ranch, or bleu cheese dressing (optional)
  • Avocado kale Caesar salad (optional)

Instructions

  1. Drain and Press Tofu: Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain excess water. Wrap the block in a clean dish towel or paper towels and gently press or squeeze to remove as much moisture as possible, approximately 1 minute. This step is crucial to achieve crispy tofu.
  2. Prepare Tofu Pieces: Tear or cut the tofu into bite-sized chunks. Place them in a mixing bowl and toss with cornstarch, soy sauce, avocado oil, paprika, and garlic powder. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning mix.
  3. Air Fry the Tofu: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the tofu pieces in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 8 minutes, then shake or toss the tofu to promote even cooking. Continue cooking for another 5 to 6 minutes until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
  4. Make Buffalo Sauce and Coat Tofu: While tofu is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Stir in the hot sauce until fully combined. Once tofu is done, transfer to a bowl and toss with the buffalo sauce to coat all pieces thoroughly.
  5. Serve: Enjoy the crispy buffalo tofu as a snack or meal topper. It pairs beautifully tossed in a Caesar, ranch, or bleu cheese salad—especially an avocado kale Caesar salad—or served with your favorite dipping sauce in wraps or bowls.

Notes

  • If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until crispy.
  • Pressing the tofu well is key to crispiness; you can use a tofu press or heavy objects to press it longer for even better texture.
  • For a vegan version, substitute the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil and use a vegan-friendly hot sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven for best texture.
  • Adjust hot sauce quantity based on your preferred spice level.

Nutrition

Keywords: buffalo tofu, crispy tofu, air fryer tofu, vegan buffalo wings, buffalo tofu salad, spicy tofu snack