The Best Crispy Baked 'Popcorn' Tofu Recipe
Prep Time:
30 minutes
Cook Time:
28 minutes
Servings:
4 Servings
Ingredients
  • 3 tablespoon ground flax seed
  • ½ cup + 1 tablespoon hot water
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup + 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 (12-ounce) block extra firm tofu
Directions
  1. Make the flax egg by whisking together the ground flax seed and hot water in a small bowl. Set aside to gel.
  2. Place the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and mix until evenly combined.
  3. Place the breadcrumbs in a second bowl. Set the bowls aside.
  4. Preheat the oven to 400 F.
  5. Drain the block of tofu and pat it dry well with paper towels.
  6. Tear the tofu into irregularly shaped bite-sized pieces for a popcorn look.
  7. Spray a baking pan with cooking spray and set aside.
  8. Roll a piece of tofu in the flour mixture until evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
  9. Dip the piece into the flax egg until all sides are moistened and then into the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Place it on the greased baking pan and repeat the process to bread the remaining pieces, adding them to the pan in a single layer.
  10. Spray the tops of the breaded tofu pieces with cooking spray.
  11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
  12. Serve immediately.