So here's the story: I originally made these baked tofu bites for my Vegan Cobb Salad recipe. I was trying to aim for a simple tofu recipe with a chicken-ish vibe. Vibe achieved. These bites were easy to make, flavourful, and perfect for my cobb salad. But I also discovered that they were more than just perfect for a cobb salad. These baked tofu bites are delicious all on their own. I'm actually surprised any tofu even made it to the salad as I couldn't stop eating them directly baking sheet.
I decided I needed to share this recipe as it's own post so that you too could experience the awesomeness of this baked tofu. These tofu bites are scrumptious all on their own and they are perfect on a salad BUT they are so much more than that. This is one of those recipes that once you make it, you start discovering all of the wonderful ways these tofu bites can be used.
They are delicious served with buffalo sauce. They are delicious on top of pasta. They are delicious in a taco. They are delicious in a sandwich. They are delicious on nachos... I think you are starting to get it, these tofu bites are completely addictive and they are delicious EVERYWHERE!
I've been making large batches of these glorious tofu nuggets and storing them in the fridge in an air-tight container so they are ready to use whenever hunger strikes.
I like to make a big batch of these using two blocks of tofu at a time, but if you prefer you can cut the recipe in half and just use one block of tofu... But if you do decide to reduce the recipe, you might regret it. You have been warned.
To Make Baked Tofu Bites:
In a large bowl, mix together the nutritional yeast, olive oil, soy sauce and garlic powder.
Break the block of tofu into small chunks and add them to the bowl. (No need to press the tofu first).
Toss the tofu well to evenly coat in the sauce mixture. Spread the tofu evenly across the baking sheets and bake about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden.
Serve hot or store in an air-tight container in the fridge to use later, or they freeze well too. Great as main, as nuggets, on salads, in sandwiches, in tacos, on pasta, on nachos, the options are endless, use these everywhere!
Baked Tofu Bites
My Notes:
Ingredients
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 blocks (350g each) extra-firm tofu, drained
Instructions
- OVEN: Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Line 2 large baking sheet with parchment paper.AIR-FRYER: Preheat your air-fryer to 350F (180C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the nutritional yeast, olive oil, soy sauce and garlic powder. Break the block of tofu into small chunks and add them to the bowl. (No need to press the tofu first). Toss the tofu well to evenly coat in the sauce mixture.
- OVEN: Spread the tofu evenly across the baking sheets and bake for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden.AIR-FRYER: add the tofu to the air-fryer and cook for about 20 minutes, shaking halfway through, until lightly golden.Serve hot or store in an air-tight container in the fridge, or freeze to use later. Great as main, as nuggets, on salads, in sandwiches, in tacos, on pasta, on nachos, the options are endless, use these everywhere!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Bon appetegan!
Sam
Lindsay says
This gets made multiple times a week in our house! I can pretty much convince anyone that tofu is delicious with this recipe. Its great in sandwiches, salads, wraps, or just on its own. The best.
lea says
Sam, I have made so many of your recipes off your site and from both of your books, I don't know how i missed this recipe but better late than never. I only had about a quarter of a brick of tofu so added cauliflower and gnocchi to make up the volume to use half of the recipe. Not surprisingly...it was excellent! Will make it again and again....
Jo says
I used to be scared of tofu thinking it was boring and bland but it's now one of my fave ingredients, along with cauliflower, thanks to using your recipes! I must be honest, I used half the amount of tofu, but the whole amount of the other items so it is probably more intense a flavour than it is supposed to be, but I can't stop eating it! Yum!
Sam Turnbull says
Love it! Tofu is amazing!!! 🙂
Ingrid says
I made half of the recipe today, not a good idea. They are so delicious, and they shrink a little while baking. I should have made the whole recipe. Next time I will! And it will be often. The kitchen smelled so good! Thank you Sam for a great recipe! 🙂
Sam Turnbull says
Haha, you're most welcome Ingrid!
Janet says
I am new to this whole tofu thing, but this recipe is a real game changer. So quick, easy and delicious. Will be making this often. Thank you for a great recipe.
Terezija says
Oh my GOSH!! Aside from this recipe being super easy, it was insanely delicious and my whole house smells so good from cooking it! I used it to make the 'Hearty Tofu Salad Sandwich' (yet another amazing recipe from this site!!!) and holy-moly, I am in food heaven.
I think this is going to become a regular go to!
Thank you for yet another amazing recipe!!!
Andrea says
I’m not one to usually comment on recipes but…. OMG I Made these last night and they literally blew my mind! My 4 year old is obsessed with them now and asked me to make them everyday haha!
Thank you!!
Diana Craig says
I am worried about consuming so much sodium from the soy sauce. Are there any alternatives? Please respond quickly before I just give in and eat it! Sounds too yummy for me to wait! Aaaagh!
Morgan says
I used coconut aminos!! ◡̈ Happy Cooking!
Diana says
Thank You for your response. I’ll try it.
Terrie says
Always use low sodium soy sauce.
Sue says
I always buy regular soy sauce and dilute 50/50 with water (which is what you’re buying if you buy reduced sodium sou sauce). You could dilute even more if you want.
Tremonisha says
I have been making these since I found your recipe in 2019! It was the first time I really LOVED the taste of tofu! Sam your recipes are so, so good!
Darcie says
I've been making this at least once a week since I discovered this recipe. Both my daughter and I LOVE them. My only suggestion is to amp up the spices. These are SO versatile. I keep all ingredients the same, but in place of the garlic powder I add in one heaping tbsp of either homemade KFC seasoning or homemade ranch seasoning. I also took the advise of another reviewer and let them marinate for a few hours and they were even better. Can't recommend these enough to anyone who is trying to eat plant based. They are even more "chicken" like when they are cold. Thanks you for this recipe!
Cheer says
Can I use miso paste in place of nutritional yeast?
Danielle says
So easy and delicious!
Breanna says
Make these every week! Has become a staple in our house. I press the tofu and marinate it in the sauce a couple of hours before I bake them. I find it holds on to the flavour more. Thank you for this great recipe Sam! Great on top of salads, as a snack or in veggie bowls!!! Yuhm
Jessica says
I just need to say how much I love this recipe. My husband swears he doesn't like tofu but begs me to make these. We add them to our Tofu bowls, tacos, salads... I just mix up the seasoning depending what kind of mood I am in. Thank you for this!
Mathilde says
I make these all the time, and today I used used Adobo seasoning instead of garlic powder. I strongly recommend!!!
I love eating these on the side of a baked sweet potato.
Kristen says
I love these! I ended up baking them for a little more time to try to dry them out and it worked well! My kids devoured these!
Emma says
Love these little bites! Been making them for a while, and this recipe has become my go-to when entertaining vegan guests. I just wanted to share my favorite variation here: use chili oil instead of evoo, and/or add 1-2 tsp korean chili paste for a spicy variation. I crank the oven up to 425 for extra crispy.
Laura says
I absolutely love this recipe. While it is delicious straight away (from the mixing bowl before cooking), they’re really amazing once crispy. This is a go to ingredient for our big salads we make with v ranch & tons of veggies, nuts & seeds.
Stephanie says
I have made this recipe several times and I love it! Recently, I made the recipe with 1 block of tofu and 1 head of broccoli (cut up, of course). I mixed everything together and baked the broccoli and tofu together on 1 baking sheet. It was absolutely delicious! The marinade was fantastic on broccoli too. Thanks for your awesome recipes, Sam!!
Laura says
Hey Sam!
Was cobbling together a fried rice thing last night w an omnivore friend who isn’t into anything w pulses, so choosing a protein gets limited.
Whipped up some of these babies to toss in and whammo: new classic! Woohoo! Thanks 🙂
Blair says
Me again! I wanted to come back on here and say that I made these again today! I still don't have the nutritional yeast yet. I decided to try these without cornstarch. They still came out crispy with just the olive oil, soy sauce and garlic powder. SO good! I am trying not to eat them straight off the pan because I want to see how they are left over...but I'm not sure if I will be able to save any!
Blair says
These were AMAZING!!! I don't have nutritional yeast (yet!), so I used 1 tablespoon of cornstarch instead. I halved the recipe, using only one block of tofu. I'm kinda glad I didn't make a double batch because my older daughter and I totally would have eaten it all! Self control is completely out the window with these nuggets! There wasn't even a crumb left, they were sooo good!
My husband and youngest daughter hated them. But they, in general, do not care for tofu. I've just started ordering it at restaurants and cooking it at home. Newbie here!
But our house divided aside, I will definitely be making this weekly even if half our house won't eat it!
Thanks for a great recipe!! I'm going to be trying your orange ginger tofu next.
Angie says
SAM. OMG. I'm obsessed with these. They're absolutely perfect and I put them on everything. Thank you so much for this recipe!
Molly says
Seriously SO good! I've made tofu tons of ways over the years, and this is absolutely my new go-to. Outrageously easy to prep, and incredibly flavorful. Thanks for a great new favorite!
Sam Turnbull says
You're most welcome, Molly!
Isabelle says
Wow Sam, you are definitely my hero.
I was looking for the perfect tofu recipe so I could introduce my (now adult) son to it. It had to be perfect, because 1. he is EXTREMELY fussy and 2. I am allergic to soybeans so I could not eat the leftovers if he didn't like it. I also wanted an easy recipe, because spending hours on something I cannot even taste is beyond cruel.
Of course I turned to your blog, and found this easy and delicious-looking recipe, and guess what? He ate the whole thing in one sitting. He LOVED it.
(I made only half a batch, because I didn't want to waste two tofu packages if it went the wrong way)
Once again you have delivered. Thank you for being there! 🙂
Nancy says
Just made this and it was delicious! i loved fried tofu.
Sheena says
I made these without oil and they were fantastic. My son, who says he doesn't like tofu, ate loads. Will definitely be making again!
Ren says
These are so much better than cubing and pan frying, which is what I usually do. And the little bits that get all soaked with marinade and crisped up, mmmmm!
Linda says
I have made these many times and today decided to use my air fryer . It cut the time in half -used same temperature for 15 minutes. As always, fantastic!!
Beata says
Wanted stir-fry last night but I've had a stir-fry with tofu before where the tofu was just cubed and cooked immediately in the stir-fry, and I didn't care for that experience, so I made a batch of the bites right before making the stir-fry. OMG - stir-fry game changer! I tossed my tofu with sesame oil and coconut aminos (I love the taste of coconut aminos) for baking to go with the stir-fry vibe.The dinner was a complete success both my boyfriend and I went back for seconds. 🙂 Thank you Sam!
Side question - do you have experience using super firm sprouted tofu? Searching your website did not return any recipes where super firm sprouted tofu was used... I see that this particular kind of tofu is now available at our local Wally World so was curious if you've used it, and if yes, how you liked it. Please let me know. Thank you in advance. 🙂
Dawn says
Hi Beata,
I use a variation of this recipe often with sprouted super firm tofu. My former housemate and I found it worked REALLY well.
Beata says
Great, thank you Dawn!
Annie says
I make these a few times a month and they're always delicious. This last time I did a variation: I pressed the tofu for 30 minutes and then marinated overnight it in some pickle juice (from hamburger dill slices) I saved from the end of a jar. I highly recommend this variation!
Jamie Phang says
This stuff is soooo amazing, it really gives me the chicken nugget experience somehow. I'm Chinese and grew up eating tofu but not like this! I make this recipe like every time now.
Btw, for a more even coating (and to make it easier), I added a bit of water to the marinade and it tasted just as amazing 🙂
Donna says
OMG the BEST tofu I have ever tasted! We've been mainly plant based for several months and trying to embrace tofu as a good protein. Some recipes we like, this by far is the best. We did make more of the sauce for the 2 packages of tofu. It's so easy (no pressing or cutting or marinating) and full of flavor. Taking this for our picnic on our hike tomorrow....if it lasts that long. My husband is thoroughly impressed! Thank you!!!! Will be on repeat in our menu plan!
Lizzie says
These little tid bits are addictive, seriously you won't be able to stop eating them. I have to hide them from my family. I did change one thing however, I cut them into little cubes instead of breaking the tofu apart. I like the way it cooks a little better. And it's fun trying to get them all the exact same size. Tiny, eat them one at a time, they last longer, unless you don't chew them.
Julia says
Love this recipe and I make it often. Easy steps/ingredients and makes delicious (and addictive) tofu. I also recently subbed soy curls for tofu in this recipe and it was equally fantastic. Thank you!
Amanda says
I make these bites about once a week to use in wraps and they are awesome! Yesterday, I tossed them in a buffalo sauce and put them on a pizza with your vegan blue cheese! Amazing! I can't stop snacking on the leftover buffalo bites! Thank you!
Paula says
I love all of your recipes! This is one that I make regularly. We have a local tofu maker, so the tofu we use is amazing, and this recipe is our favorite way to use it. It rarely makes it into a meal, because we have so much fun just snacking on it. Thank you for your enthusiasm and wonderful, unique recipes!
Stephanie says
I have been eating more plant based over the last year and have desperately wanted to get into tofu- but it seemed like every time I tried to cook it into something it still just tasted like water. This recipe has changed EVERYTHING. I'm so excited to use this baked tofu in all my vegan recipes! The flavor is awesome (no more water taste!) but neutral enough that it will go well with pretty much anything. Thank you so much!!!
Sable says
I am new to vegan cuisine. What kind of tofu is used here? Silk? Or natural? I just used a natural one and it wasn’t so firm as in the video. Thanks for the help
Sam Turnbull says
This is extra-firm tofu, not silken. It would be found in the refrigerated section. 🙂 This is the one I use.
Caroline R. says
Thanks for the great recipe! Quick question. How long do these last/can they be refrigerated? I wanted to make a big batch and save some of it! Thanks 🙂
Deb Guerin says
I cannot find where to ask a question so I’m hoping you get this. I made this and the sauce is so thick that it’s not really marinating. Will bake in a few but wondering why it wasn’t creamy?
April says
Firm I'd guess or extra firm. Silken is good for sauces or dips. It won't hold its shape as firm tofu does
jules Abell says
This was soo good. I ate too much! This will be on rotation. Any tips for making it get a bit crispier without burning under the broiler?
Johnny says
A little bit of cornstarch and/or use an air fryer!
Vive says
I don’t understand your review - this recipe doesn’t use cloves or cinnamon. Maybe you meant to post it elsewhere?
Thanks
Vive
sarah says
If you store in the fridge, how would you suggest reheating or do you eat it cold?
Sue says
Filling and yummy...and I had all the ingredients!!! I really love your recipes. Thanks Sam!
Sam Turnbull says
You're most welcome, Sue 🙂
Ainsley says
Best tofu recipe ever. It is my go to when I can't decide what to make and want and easy meat substitute in a comfort food recipe.
Vanessa says
Can I leave them in the marinade overnight for more flavor? They are amazing!
Sam Turnbull says
Absolutely! I don't think it will affect the flavour much tho.
Sandi says
Yum! I had a 1# block of tofu in the fridge and made this recipe (was going to get a 2nd block, but COVID so, ya know). 100% delicious. I'm scarfing these right now. I will definitely keep this recipe on rotation. Thanks very much
Sam Turnbull says
So happy you love them, Sandi!
Courtney R says
Wow wow wow! This recipe could not be easier or more delicious. I am so impressed. My husband wont stop stealing them off the pan I doubled the sauce/seasonings and added a few drops of liquid smoke. I used them to make your ceasar wrap. Soooo good!!
Sam Turnbull says
Yay!! SO happy they are a hit for you, Courtney 🙂
Theresa says
I added some maple syrup (only about 2 teaspoons so you don't risk burning) and some stomach. They needed a little sweet and spice. Delish.
Theresa says
I mean SRIRACHA. Silly auto-correct.
Leslie says
I was like, stomach?! I don't want that!
Vanessa Boggs says
My husband and I are starting to ease into a WFPB diet and we are having our 2 yr old son do it to while he’s still young. He loves chicken nuggets. I just made these for him and he is loving them. I really don’t think he knows the difference. Thank you so much!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! I love that. So happy they're a hit 🙂
Anne says
I have made these many times, and yes, I use these -everywhere-. My husband gets excited when he figures out that's what's for dinner. He's been calling them 'the nuglets' 😛
Thanks for such a simple and delicious recipe!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha, nuglets. Love it!
Meri says
I can’t stop eating this tofu. It is SO GOOD!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! Love it 🙂
Jennifer says
I agree this is KILLER! Have made it many times it’s addicting. Sometimes I throw in slivered almonds and Panko for a little extra crunch. Awesome!
Sam Turnbull says
Yay! So happy you love it, Jennifer 🙂
Danielle says
Hi Sam and followers! I am new to Veganyumminess and a friend recommended your web site. I love it! At the risk of seeming like a total clutz, the marinade in this simple recipe turned out super thick. Could it have to do with the type of nutritional yeast I used? Mine is powedered and is called something like Yellow B12. Many moons ago I used Angevita. Could you please explain the difference between nutritional yeasts? And in general, is it more useful to buy in powdered form, flakes? Thank you and keep up the bubblyness!
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Danielle, yep the marinade is really more of a paste and it should be thick. It will just coat the outside of the tofu. You did everything right! Flakes vs powder, it really doesn't matter. I generally use flakes. Enjoy!
Alanna says
I love these tofu bites! They are so easy and delicious, I make them often. Thanks for another amazing recipe!
Sam Turnbull says
You're most welcome 🙂
Vanessa Mullin says
Delicious but I find my tofu stuck to the parchment paper??? Any tips!
Lynne says
This is the recipe I recommend to my friends who are thinking about cutting back on eating animals; or have no idea what tofu is or how it tastes or what to do with it. I tell them tofu is the "white meat that vegans eat". This recipe is incredibly awesome!
BTW: Good luck in your Best Blogger competition. I've only been Whole-Food, Plant-Based for five years, so I spend a lot of time searching for good recipes and sites. Your site consistently has recipes that look good enough to try, and I usually love them! Thank you for your crucial contribution to our daily food.
Sam Turnbull says
Thank you so very much!!! Thrilled you're enjoying my recipes so much 🙂
Barbara says
Hi Sam. Just voted for you in the 2020 Veggie Awards Veg News... hope you win it, you work so hard for all of us to stay healthy and happy.
Also thrilled I found this recipe. Thanks
Sam Turnbull says
Aww thank you so much, Barbara! I very much appreciate it 🙂
Kay says
My SIL shared this recipe with me last Spring and I became obsessed. I make these weekly and I end up eating a good portion before I use them for dinner or whatever else In cooking them for.
I shared the recipe with my bff, and she also now makes them constantly.
I can't thank you enough for this recipe!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! That's so awesome! Glad you love them 🙂
Linda says
Hi Sam - I love these bites and make them all the time. I should know this by now but how do you think these would hold up in a pie? For Christmas dinner I am making a vegan layered pie with roast carrots, vegan stuffing, cranberry sauce and mashed potato. I want to use these bites instead of turkee seitan. My seitan recipe is ok but I prefer the texture of these bites. What do you think?
Sam Turnbull says
I think they will hold up fine but they might lose a bit of the texture. Enjoy!
Amy says
What?? These are AMAZING! I just made them this morning. I was skeptical but decided to try them anyway because I had all of the ingredients. They are so delicious. My husband and I have almost finished off the whole batch. I will be making these again very soon!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha!! Thrilled you love them so much, Amy!
Amy says
Omg I’m obsessed with this recipe. I have made it twice this week already, I find the tofu, way too addictive. Tha k you for sharing!!
Sam Turnbull says
You're most welcome, Amy!
Jul says
Hi! I'd like to make 2 blocks of tofu at once, how long can they be stored in the fridge?
Jul says
I forgot to add, of course I meant the storage after the baking!
Audrey P says
This has become my go-to for quick tofu prep.Love it on my salads and in casseroles. Family pleaser, for sure!
Sam Turnbull says
About a week in an air-tight container. ENjoy!
CC says
These were unbelievable! So delicious. I added splash of sesame oil, and I did press the tofu. Thanks for the greAt recipe-love the blog!
Sam Turnbull says
You're most welcome!!
Kristin says
Wow! I know that any time I see your name by a recipe, we’re going to love it. But let me tell you, I was a little doubtful that such a simple recipe could be all that great. Whoa! I’m having trouble not eating it all myself.
Thank you for making vegan cooking and eating so easy and delicious! You are the queen of tofu! 😉
Sam Turnbull says
Haha that's awesome!!! Thank You so much Kristin 🙂
Stephanie says
I know you've heard this from so many of your other blog followers but this recipe is sooooo good, I mean really it's amazing. The first time I made this I ate half of the recipe before supper, then looked at how much I demolished, and thought I should save some for everyone else....I probably could have made the whole batch. I'm going to start using this for meal prep and do up two batches at once. Thanks again and keep up the amazing work!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! That's awesome! I never get tired of hearing people enjoy my recipe 🙂
Joshua says
Have made these twice now and love them. This recipe and your tofu crumbles have been revelations. By far the best tofu I have ever had, only exception being an insane grilled teriyaki tofu from a little vegan restaurant in Kyoto made by an ex-meat chef turned tofu wizard. Still, this puts all other restaurant tofu to shame. Thank you!
Sam Turnbull says
Awesome! So happy you love them 🙂
Kelley says
I am trying to incorporate more tofu into our diets because it is such excellent inexpensive protein. This was my first experimental lunch recipe. I made these for myself and my 3 y/o using only one block of firm tofu (not extra firm, unfortunately my market rarely has it). They came out SO YUMMY! I air fried them at 390 for maybe 30 minutes? They definitely took longer because the tofu was firm. Next time if I'm using firm tofu I'll press it first. Otherwise it was perfect. My 3 y/o ate TWO servings (and asked for more!) before touching the watermelon, grapes, or chocolate doughnut that were also on her plate. Amazing. I ate the rest of the batch and I'm sad they're gone. This recipe is definitely a keeper!
Sam Turnbull says
Yay! So happy you enjoyed!
Peter K Schaffer says
Hi Sam: great recipe! (It might be the best vegan chili I've ever tasted!) Question about freezing tofu, thawing, squeezing and preparing tofu INSTEAD of simply using it right from the package and then adding other ingredients to it for your tofu bites. You are obviously an innovator; no doubt you are familiar with freezing/squeezing method and decided against it. If so, why? (IMHO freezing tofu, etc positively changes the texture of the final tofu bites.)
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Peter, personally I am not a fan of the texture of tofu after it has been frozen. It is too spongey for me. But if you like it, go for it!
Luke says
You should put the ingredients and instructions at the top before anything that begins with “so here’s the story”. That way we can get what we came here for, and stay for the story if I'm super bored.
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Luke, right at the top of every post is a "jump to recipe" button. Just click that and it will take you directly to the recipe and skip everything else.
Sara says
Amazing. Addictive. I put them on pizza, also amazing. I’m using these in something once a week..... ♀️
Sara says
Not sure where that sign came from lol... 🙂
Sam Turnbull says
Haha, that's wonderful, Sara! Thrilled you enjoyed 🙂
Vivien says
I tried these today and let me just say: I was blown away, no joke… I've had my fair share of bad tofu in my life and was a bit sceptical at first but I ended up eating the whole batch, ALL AT ONCE!!! so good and it DOES taste like chicken. thank you so much for this awesome recipe! can't wait to try other stuff on your page 😉 much love, your new fan from Switzerland <3
Sam Turnbull says
You're most welcome, Vivien!! I'm so thrilled you love it so much 🙂
Sarah says
I've made these a lot and I love them. I like how they don't have a cup of panko breadcrumbs like a lot of other nugget recipes, or any other ingredients I don't keep on hand. I just use regular firm tofu because I buy it by the case at Costco and it comes out fine. Next I'm going to use them in wraps or on salads with a little buffalo sauce and vegan ranch.
Sam Turnbull says
Awesome! I'm thrilled you love them so much, Sarah 🙂
Sherry says
I'll have to join Shelly in the tofu-addiction program. I finally tried these today, I'm no-oil so I subbed some vegan chicken-style broth powder, water and a bit of poultry seasoning and I've eaten the entire batch. Tomorrow I'm going to try the air fryer method - and get more tofu. You can't overdose on tofu, right?
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! As far as I know, 3 - 5 servings of tofu are actually recommended daily 🙂 So happy you love the recipe, Sherry!
Karine says
I have been doing your tofu bites on a regular basis and tonight I cooked them in my new cuisinar fry oven toaster, it only took 15 minutes at 350 c and let me tell you it’s brings them you a new level of awesomeness if that’s even possible!!
Sam Turnbull says
That's awesome! I will have to try that 🙂
Stephanie says
Karine - Did you use parchment paper? I want to try in my toaster oven/air fryer and hope it doesn't stick!
Cori says
Excellent recipe. I love your videos. I'm relatively new at cooking tofu. Do you think of I made this recipe and then threw them in a pan to cook them with a taco style sauce for tacos/burritos it would turn out OK?
Sam Turnbull says
Thank you, Cori! For the best texture I recommend baking the tofu bites as directed in the recipe, then you could assemble your tacos with all your favourite toppings including taco sauce. Hope that helps, enjoy!
Matt says
I tried this recipe for the first time last night. I only had one block of tofu so I halved the recipe.
The bites tasted pretty good but, next time, I am going to use one block of tofu and the full recipe for more flavor.
I prefer my tofu cold (weird?) and, eating these the next morning, they very much reminded me of cold fried chicken (at least, how I remember it from years ago). Great recipe!
Sam Turnbull says
Glad you enjoyed, Matt!
Tina says
Firstly, I'm in production so am often super critical of how people do videos like this and how the person in front of the camera comes across - and your just my favorite! I love how you do your videos. Now onto the deliciousness....I LOVE this I've made it twice this week and am now experimenting substituting the tofu with cauliflower - no idea how it'll turn out but I'll keep you posted. Thanks for this and your fun self!
Sam Turnbull says
Aww shucks, thank you so much, Tina!! Thrilled you enjoy my recipe and my video so much!!
Sarah Johnson says
Dear Sam
I’m a sleep consultant for babies and kids in London UK. Do you mind me posting a link to the tofu bites on my instagram feed (fully credited) as they are a perfect tryptophan snack for promoting an easy bedtime?
Sam Turnbull says
For sure! You are always welcome to share photos with links to the full recipe on my blog. If on Instagram be sure to tag me too so I can like it @itdoesnttastelikechicken 🙂 Just don't copy and paste full recipes as that's a breach of copyright. Thanks!
Tina says
OMG! These are amazing! I'm so happy. They were also super easy - they're so delicious. I made the mistake some have and used only "firm" tofu - but it's fine I just baked them a little longer. Now off to make your roasted chick peas, since my oven is already heated and I'm hungry 🙂
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! Awesome! So happy you enjoyed them Tina 🙂
Susan says
Hi, Sam, I recently subscribed to your blog and this is the first recipe I have made. It's a winner! I have thought I didn't care for tofu after having it at a Thai restaurant in a stir fry. In spite of the sear on the tofu cubes it was bland and mushy. Your tofu bites have great flavor! I love them and will make them regularly I am certain. I look forward to reading more of your blog and trying other recipes. I am so ready for soups it will be fun to check out your recipes. I am vegetarian trying to have more vegan days so these bites are perfect. I am 72 and it's never too late to learn about super healthy and delicious food! Thank you!!
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Susan! So thrilled you enjoyed the tofu so much! Yes, it's all about seasoning and preparing it right to make it taste great 🙂 That's so amazing that you're trying to incorporate more vegan recipes into you life. I hope you enjoy many more recipes on this blog 🙂
Laurelin says
I have made these a few times now. I just made a batch and put them on my salad for dinner...aaaaand then proceeded to fish the tofu bites out of the bowl and leave much of the salad behind. I LOVE these!
Sam Turnbull says
Bahaha! Love it! So happy you loved them so much, Laurelin 🙂
Connie Sawatzky says
So so good. Such a great substitute! Had a buffalo chicken wrap, so good.
Was wondering if anyone or you (Sam) had tried to bump up the chic flavour with some vegan chicken seasoning? (found some at Planet Organic and used it in a chickpea mash and it really gave it a good flavour punch.
*also Canadian here as well (yay!)
Sam Turnbull says
So happy you enjoyed, Connie! I've never come across vegan chicken seasoning so I have no experience but I'm sure it would be great 🙂
Maria says
Hi Sam, I am going to have to join the tofu addiction club with Shelly Seriously these are awesome! Final test tomorrow when my omni son (who loves good vegan food) uses in a wrap for lunch ! Thanks for the wonderful recipe !
Sam Turnbull says
Haha, I think it's getting to be a rather large club. I'm a member myself. Welcome to the club!
Margaret says
I love your recipes, and the flavor was so nice for this recipe, but I would love my bites to look like yours in your picture instead of the very small pieces that resulted for me, so perhaps you could advise me? My extra-firm tofu came packed in water in a carton. I drained, but did not press it, and broke it up into largish chunks to match those in your picture. When I stirred the coating ingredients together, the coating was thick, not runny. And when I mixed in the tofu chunks into it, by the time they were all coated, it had turned into kind of an amorphous blob, that I spread out on the baking sheet, resulting in small pieces. I wonder, should I have added more liquid to the coating mixture, so I wouldn't have to stir the tofu in so long? I also halved the ingredients, using 1 carton of tofu and half the ingrediens for the nutrutional yeast coating. Could that have affected the outcome? Thank you 🙂
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Margaret, I would try a different brand of tofu next time. My go-to is Sunrise extra-firm tofu. They can vary in texture and it sounds like yours was a bit softer which is why it would have broken up when stirring. Also try folding the tofu to coat. Hope that helps!
Lenora says
I had a similar problem and found that folding the tofu and marinade together with a slightly flexible silicone spatula really helped! Just stirring with a spoon was too rough on my tofu and it broke down a lot.
Claudia Meza says
can I use firm tofu instead of extra firm?
Sam Turnbull says
The results won't be as successful. I recommend extra-firm. Enjoy!
Connie Sawatzky says
I found this product Mandarin Soy Foods Organic Pressed Tofu (Firm) at my local Save-on-Foods (I live in Alberta). It is a company out of Vancouver, BC (Canada). The beauty of this product is that it is already pressed. I bought the firm and it was so amazingly firm, and worked perfectly in this recipe. Margaret, I hope that you can find this in your local supermarket as well. It is my new "go-to" for sure!
Shelly says
Um, Sam...... few things:
1. I cannot stop eating these.
2. I use an air fryer.
3. I can only make a small amount because see number 1
4. You're gonna need to reimburse me for the Tofu Bite addiction program.
5. The first step is admitting you have a problem.
6. THANK YOU, I think.
Sam Turnbull says
Bahahaha! Love it. Thrilled you love them so much. Sorry about the new program 😉
Jesse says
Whats your baking temp and time for air fryer?
Shelly says
Honestly. I pretty much cook everything at 400 degrees and I just keep shaking it and checking on it. I'm so sorry I can't give you an actual answer. I'm lame. LOL
Joan says
Super easy. So tasty. Really versatile. Thank you for sharing your great recipe!
Sam Turnbull says
You're most welcome, Joan! Enjoy!
Keri says
Hi - I’m excited to make these on Tuesday! We are vegetarian (not vegan). Can a different type of yeast be substituted without changing the taste of the tofu? Thank you 🙂
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Keri, no it can't. Nutritional yeast is a non-active yeast that tastes cheesy. Any other kind of yeast will taste horrid. Haha. Enjoy!
Romi says
that was absolutely delicious !! thank you
Sam Turnbull says
You're most welcome, Romi! Glad you enjoyed them 🙂
Kris says
I was looking for new ideas for my lunches and never really cooked with tofu before. After reading all the reviews, I decided to try this recipe. I can't believe how good it tastes! I'm obsessed now.
Thank you for this recipe!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha, you're most welcome, Kris! So happy you gave it a try 🙂
Aubrey says
These are amazing! I’m new to being vegan (pretty much the same story as yours! Cold turkey, just can’t do it) and I made the mistake of using firm tofu instead of extra firm, but I left them in the oven longer and they turned out great. My 18 month old son was eating my tofu bites instead of his Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets next to him. I call that a win!
Tre says
hi Aubrey! I have firm tofu and wanted to know how much longer did you bake them?
Thanks!
Aubrey says
It was close to double the time, just keep a close eye on it. Also it will crumble more so be gentle when mixing it into the paste. Good luck!
Tre says
Thank you for the tip! They were DELICIOUS!!!
Aubrey says
I’m glad it worked for you too, Tre!
Sam Turnbull says
Oh that is a win!! How awesome, and congrats on your new veganism, Aubrey 🙂
Aubrey says
Thank you!!
Joan says
Enjoy your vegan journey Aubrey. It's amazing. Over 7 years ago we switched at ages 55 and 58. My hubby always says he wishes we'd have known at 20 what we know now! Cheers to you!
Aubrey says
Thank you for your encouragement, Joan! That’s amazing you and your husband switched at 55 and 58! I’m excited about the journey that lies ahead.
Carolyn Hettich says
I am new to your site - LOVING IT!! -
When you post the nutritional information, I am not seeing serving size. Am I to assume then the information is for the entire recipe, and I would to the math accordingly, for how I serve it? Thanks!
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Carolyn! Thanks so much!! The recipe program I'm using is currently being updated so hopefully it is more clear in the future but the nutrition information is always for 1 serving of the recipe, so in this case, it would be 1/4th of the recipe. Enjoy!
Psuke says
I make these on the regular now, and actually...they do taste like fried chicken. Helpful note: I made them with white miso (1:1 replacement) today because I had unknowingly run out of nooch. Still amazing.
Sam Turnbull says
Great tip! So happy you love them 🙂
joan says
Loved these! Check on all my important markers. Healthy? Check. Easy? Check. Delicious? Check. Husband approved? Check.
Regarding the estrogen myth. For those of you that may be unsure (as I was 7 years ago) please feel free to check out Dr Kristen Funk, breast cancer oncologist. She's has a lot of information and knowledge about breast cancer and soy. She believes soy to be, in fact, breast cancer protective in all cases.
Sam Turnbull says
So happy you enjoy it so much, Joan! And yep, I agree with you, soy is actually protective according to the latest science.
Jennifer C says
This is one of me and my bfs new favorite recipes. We both LOVE how easy it is 🙂
And it taste even better as left overs because it gets nice and chewy sitting in the fridge. I put mine over lettuce and rice with some ketchup. Will definitely be making this for my next family gathering.
Sam Turnbull says
Wonderful! So happy it's a favourite Jennifer 🙂
Danielle says
Can these be made oil free?
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Danielle, if you scroll down just a little and read through some of the comments, many readers have suggestions for oil-free variations. Hope that helps!
Courtney says
I just have to tell you this recipe has been a real game changer for us. We’ve been transitioning our family of 5 to a vegan, plant based diet and my kids (13,12,8) haven’t been super happy with the change. The first day I served this is was like someone flicking a switch. They ask for these all the time. They will still order meat and cheese when we go out. (Our compromise for now) but as long as these are in regular rotation at home I rarely get complaints about eating vegan anymore. If I am taking suggestions for dinner ideas I have to say “other than tofu bites, what do you want with dinner?”.
Sam Turnbull says
Hahaha!! I love that so much! Amazing!
Chris says
I make them with smoked tofu (gives it a real kick!). Even my extremely picky eater (autist) approves and keeps asking for them. Thank you so much for this awesome and really easy recipe!
Sam Turnbull says
Oooh! Love that idea 🙂
Kylie says
Life-changing recipe! Thanks so much for posting.
Sam Turnbull says
So thrilled you love it, Kylie 🙂
Sara says
Hi! I'm intolerant to nutritional yeast. Any idea what I could replace it with? (I'm vegan.)
Thanks!
Sam Turnbull says
It's difficult to replace, so I would try skipping it and maybe upping the garlic powder a touch. Hope that helps!
Psuke says
I commented below as well, but I used white miso (out of nutritional yeast), and it worked fine. 1:1 replacement ratio.
Sara says
Thanks a lot!
RoseAnne says
Love love love this recipe, Sam! Seems like I'm making at least once batch a week. Most recently, I added it (and veganized) a favourite chicken recipe, https://eatnorth.com/eat-north/earls-hunan-kung-pao, and it turned out perfectly (at least as good as the original)!
Thanks again,
Best,
RoseAnne
Sam Turnbull says
Amazing!! So happy you loved it so much, RoseAnne 🙂
Nancy says
I just discovered your wonderful website! These tofu bites are our new family favorite. Do you have a specific taco recipe for these?
Sam Turnbull says
So happy you love them, Nancy!! You could just layer them on tacos with your favourite fillings, or you could try my tofu taco crumbles for a different recipe 🙂
Yummy says
I love this, taste is amazing, thank you!! I just have one question, how do you get such nice pieces? When I mix the tofu with the sauce, it crumbles and ends up looking like ground tofu 🙁
Tianna says
Yes same here!! I’m curious on how to get around this 🙁
Sam Turnbull says
Thrilled you enjoy it so much! I break the tofu into fairly large pieces so it doesn't resemble ground tofu at all. If you are having trouble with your tofu breaking up when mixing, then double check that the tofu you are using is extra-firm (less firm tofu will crumble fairly easily), and maybe try a different brand as they can vary in texture. Hope that helps!
Jen says
I could seriously eat these every day. So good!
Sam Turnbull says
Yay! SO happy you enjoyed them, Jen 🙂
Yareli says
Wow, this really does taste like chicken, I'm shook
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! Love it 🙂
Dianna says
These are delicious!!! These tofu bites have expanded my lunch/dinner menu to include many foods I never was able to really enjoy fully without ground meat since I adopted a plant based diet. Thank you so much for posting this!!!
I also love the tofu crumble that is part of the Tofu Bolognese
( https://itdoesnttastelikechicken.com/tofu-bolognese/) and Best Vegan Chili Ever (https://itdoesnttastelikechicken.com/2017/01/10/the-best-vegan-chili-ever/) recipes (both amazing as well)
This crumbled seasoned tofu has been a total game changer for me because it's so much quicker to make than pressing, marinating, and baking; and it's super delicious and you can use it everywhere that ground meat is usually used in busy weeknight recipes.
Sam Turnbull says
Yay! So thrilled you are enjoying so many recipes, Dianna 🙂
Heather says
Best tofu bites I’ve ever made!! I substituted parmesan cheese for the yeast. Unbelievable. Thank you!
Aimee says
My 4 (almost 5 year) old devoured almost an entire bowl I had made for myself. The almost is because my husband was helping at first! We are not vegans but try to work a ton of plant based food into our household for multiple reasons. It felt great hearing my youngest proclaim he loves tofu and he will eat anything his brother won't! Thank you for this recipe for our repertoire.
Sam Turnbull says
Aww that's great! Glad you and your family enjoyed, Aimee 🙂
Emily says
Girl, these are delish and addictive! I love that the recipe is super simple - I didn't need to press the tofu AND had all the ingredients on hand. Does it get any better than that?!?
Sam Turnbull says
It really doesn't! Haha! Thrilled you loved it so much, Emily 🙂
Kelsey says
This is one of the best tofu recipes I have ever had. So easy, so good, ingredients I always have on hand. I can see myself making this again and again!!! I baked them for extra time cause I wanted them a little crispier, and I used pre-pressed firm tofu. This is a life-changing tofu recipe!!
Sam Turnbull says
Yay!!!! Thrilled you loved it so much, Kelsey 🙂
Cassidy says
I love all of your recipes, Sam! These are no exception, so easy, delicious, and versatile! One thing I wanted to add was that I live in high elevation and had to almost double the cooking time. So any vegans living up high you may want to consider this 🙂
Sam Turnbull says
Great to know, Cassidy! I have no knowledge of high altitude cooking!
Chris says
How do you think these would turn out in an air fryer? I tried to see if this had already been answered but there’s so many comments about how awesome they are that I gave up! Thanks!
Sam Turnbull says
I haven't tried it myself, but I had a search through the comments for you and Rachel C said "These tofu bites work wonderfully in my air fryer." 🙂
Lise F. says
As soon as I saw that recipe, I knew that it would become a hit! I use them everywhere...fried rice, hot chicken, sandwich, as is with a dip, in a salad....!
It's a quick and easy meal on vacation with no fuss! My grand children (non vegan) just love them. Thank you for all your good recipes!
Sam Turnbull says
Wonderful!! So thrilled you love them so much, Lise 🙂
Cindy B. says
Was so excited to make this! My nutritional yeast seemed to soak up all of the soy sauce & oil and I was left with a paste that didn't stick to the tofu. Any suggestion on how to fix this? Thanks.
Sam Turnbull says
That's exactly what it should look like, Cindy. Just toss very well and the paste will coat the tofu. Enjoy!
Cindy says
Thank you! I mixed it up the best I could and just baked it even with the paste bits and pieces. All I have to say is that it was delicious!!! Only half of it made it to the bowls
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! Amazing!
Amanda says
Made these today for meal prep for my lunches this week, and regretting that I didn't double the recipe! They are amazing!!!
Sam Turnbull says
Yay!!! So happy you loved them 🙂
Karen says
I made these during the polar vortex in the US Midwest yesterday (-21F). There are great and even more chicken-y the next day. I used the sauce recipe on one 454gram block of super firm tofu. What a nice treat on an Arctic day. Thanks!
Sam Turnbull says
Wonderful! So happy you enjoyed it, Karen 🙂
Daria says
Omg the best tofu recipe ever!! They smelt amazing while baking, I took them out of the oven and hubby and I ate the whole batch from the baking sheet! (I only had one tofu ) Hubby said “these are f$&king the best” and then continued say yum yum yum!!
Always love your recipes...you are the best!!
Sam Turnbull says
Hahaha! Love it! So happy you enjoyed it so much, Daria 🙂
Rachel says
Holy moly, these are amazing! I'm for sure making "chicken" finger subs with this next time.
Sam Turnbull says
Wonderful! So happy you loved it, Rachel 🙂
Amy says
I keep making these and telling myself I need to leave a comment! These are so delicious. They actually taste very similar to Chick-Fil-A nuggets in my opinion. I’m not one to leave comments or be super impressed by recipes, but this one is SO easy, SO fast, and SOO tasty! Thank you so much. Even my omnivore husband loves these 🙂
Sam Turnbull says
Aww that's so amazing, Amy!! So very happy you love the recipe so much. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment 🙂
Michelle says
OMG Sam! You have done it AGAIN!!! I love tofu, have a few favourite ways of preparing it, so wasn't really looking for another. But these looked soooo good, I couldn't resist. I love how easy they are - no pressing of the tofu, just crumble and stir and spread across the baking sheet. Easy peasy! My husband loved them too!!
Sam Turnbull says
Hahaha!! YAY!!!! There's always room for more delicious tofu recipes in my opinion! Haha.
Kelly says
So I feel like I’ve tried just about every tofu recipe out there (and am a frequent user of all of the ingredients in this recipe - and yet I’ve never discovered this combination before) and this is the best tofu I’ve ever made!! These are SO addicting right off the pan, and I can see how versatile it is. This is definitely my new go-to tofu recipe!
Sam Turnbull says
YAY!!! So very happy you found your new go-to tofu, Kelly 🙂
Kristy says
These are amazing! I have had hit or miss luck with tofu recipes in the past, so I wasn’t getting my hopes up. I increased the marinade by 150% because my tofu blocks were 397 grams rather than 350g, and added a bunch of cayenne, and wow, perfect texture and flavor. These are Definitely going to replace my store-bought frozen bags of fake chicken that I use as a base for everything,! I purposely overcooked them To use on salads for the added crunch but I would probably bake them for the expected time if I was going to use them for tacos or fake chicken salad. I plan on adding some Frank’s red hot next time. These are so versatile and amazing! My meat eater husband who rolls his eyes When I swear that something is so good that he won’t even know the distan when I swear that something is so good that he won’t even know the difference, Specifically Requests more of these on the menu! Thanks so much for your life changing recipes
Kristy says
Sorry for the weird edit! My WiFi went funny as I was typing and duplicated a sentence !
Sam Turnbull says
Oh wow that's so awesome!!! So thrilled these hit the spot for you, Kristy! I hope you enjoy many more recipes as well 🙂
nicole dimartino says
I just made this recipe and WOW is it good, being the only vegan in my house the rest of my family had big steaks which were super red I the middle (gross) and they ended up hating them. I offered up some of these bites to my my brother (non vegan), since he didn't eat the beef steak and he loved them so much he ate his whole serving. seriously, these are amazing and so simple. thanks for posting a great recipe:)
Sam Turnbull says
Oh that is SO awesome!! It's always so great when the vegan dish tastes better!!!
Karen says
These are delicious, right off the pan. I have to make another batch so I can eat more. Thank you.
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! You're welcome, Karen! SO happy you love them 🙂
Asha says
I tried making this recipe and unfortunately the tofu didn’t have any of the flavour of the marinade 🙁
Sam Turnbull says
Sorry you didn't enjoy it!
Tiffany B. says
OMG, even though I have made this plenty of times, for some reason it was smelling extra good, I took a small nibble before I put it in the oven. It tasted just like cold chicken salad. I had to hurry up and put it in the oven before I ate it cold!
Sam Turnbull says
Hahaha! Love it!
Samantha P says
In all honesty I came across this recipe when there was some extra tofu that would have overcrowded my Mexican marinade to make tacos. I had just a small tofu steak to try this recipe out, and was bummed that there wasn't more to toss in the oven......because this flavor blew my mind. As I popped the 1st cube in my mouth "is........is this CHICKEN?!?". The 8 other cubes never even made it to see a full minute out of the oven. I've always had tofu play the role of protein with veggies taking up most of the room in my dishes......but this tofu can stand on its own! No more will the tofu accompany the veggies, NOW the veggies will accompany the TOFU!
Sam Turnbull says
Bahahahaha! Love it so much!!! o happy you loved the recipe so much, Samantha. Great name by the way 😉
Melissa says
Sam...Thank you. Truely. I'm an italian Mama who loves her children through her food ( with all my heart ) We went animal friendly 2 years ago. Sigh... They threaten to jump out of the car and scavenge every time they see an urban chicken....But.. They EAT your food and they Like it. I love your recipes.
Sam Turnbull says
Aww that's wonderful! So happy you enjoyed, Melissa 🙂
Rachel C says
These tofu bites work wonderfully in my air fryer. These little bites of goodness are great on salads and pasta for a little savory ommph! Also wanted to let you know I've been using this recipe with the softer Mori-Mu style tofu that comes in refrigerator free "juice boxes." I just dump the ingredients together in the processor, spoon out small balls into the air fryer tray, set it for 30 minutes on high, and ta-dah! Same great taste but with less fuss and even less shopping!
Sam Turnbull says
That sounds wonderful! So happy you love them so much, Rachel 🙂
Karen says
I've been making this recipe since you posted it!! I can't tell you how much I love it!! But, this week I decided to try something new. Instead of using tofu, I used oyster mushrooms. It was so delicious with the mushrooms. I thought you'd like to know so that perhaps you can try this.
Sam Turnbull says
Oh sounds delish!! So very happy you love the recipe so much 🙂
Lizzy says
I've been looking for ways to make tofu and this will definitely be one of those ways. Made it in the air fryer and put it on a salad. My husband kept trying to steal pieces from me. Thank you!
Sam Turnbull says
Hahaha love it! So happy you loved the recipe so much, Lizzy 🙂
Alex says
I've been a vegetarian for 12 years and make tofu all the time -- but this simple marinade makes the best marinade I've ever had! It's so stunningly delicious and so simple. Thanks so much for sharing 🙂
Sam Turnbull says
That's awesome!! So very happy you love the recipe so much 🙂
Hashmanis says
I just used your recipe to prepare tofu to be added at the last minute to a stir fry of onions, garlic, ginger and several large sweet peppers in a sauce of combined soy sauce and oyster sauce. The crispness of the tofu cubes was retained and they had absorbed some of the flavors of the sauce. I served it on fried noodles. Excellent!
Sam Turnbull says
Awesome, so happy you enjoyed!!
Dana Lindholm says
WONDERFUL !!! I love, LOVE these. Thank you.
Sam Turnbull says
You're welcome 🙂
Jen says
This is now officially my husband's favorite tofu! He asks for it at least once a week!
Sam Turnbull says
Yayyyyy!!!
Jo says
From this day forward = heavy rotation at my house! Great recipe, thank you!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha!! Awesome!! Thrilled you love it so much, Jo 🙂
Beverly says
So easy! So versatile! So delicious!
I've made this recipe so many times, thinking there will be leftovers for another day and that never happens. Perhaps I should just make 4 cartons of tofu at a time!
YUMMY!!!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha!! Smart thinking, Beverly.
Elizabeth says
Love this recipe . It’s amazing , I use it in stir fry.
Sam Turnbull says
Perfect 🙂
Trina says
These tofu bites are to die for. I've made them so many times in the last couple of months I've lost count. I started doubling the soy, oil, garlic and yeast flakes because I like the extra flavor and texture it gives the tofu. Last night I subbed Cholulu Sauce for the soy sauce, but kept everything else the same. My husband and I loved them! Once they came out of the oven we tried them, then splashed a little more Cholulu on them before serving. They taste like buffalo wings, but so much better.
Sam Turnbull says
That's so awesome, Trina!! So happy you love them so much 😀
Tiffany says
Thank ypou Sam (and Chickpea),
I am happy eating tons of fruits and veg but the hubs not so much. He was a hamburger loving fool. One night he say a movie about meat and he immediately stopped eating he. He was very hateful towards tofu for no reason at all. I made these and he devoured them! I can't believe he trusted me enought to even try them. You site has given my family healthy meals. Thank you for what you do. I love your videos and your energy.!
Sam Turnbull says
That's so wonderful!!! Thrilled your husband loved the tofu so much, and so happy you are enjoying my site. Chickpea says hi 🙂
Kelly says
OMG - so very delicious and simple to make!!!! I ate half the pan before they were cooled 🙂 Love these on salad too! Even my non-vegan daughter who wrinkles her nose up at tofu tried these and agreed they were good/tasted like "chicken nuggets". Have made these several times now...SO GOOD! My new favorite tofu recipe! Thank you Sam!
Sam Turnbull says
That's so awesome, Kelly!!! Thrilled you love them so much 😀
Dave Holly says
Thank you! I love this recipe. Super easy, and I cook tofu almost every day now. I’ve never gone through a bottle of soy sauce so quick LOL
I don’t have any nutritional yeast, but it tastes great anyways. I added some cornstarch to see what would happen, and it kinda gives the tofu a light crust.
This is officially my go to recipe for tofu.
Sam Turnbull says
Haha, awesome! So happy you enjoyed!
Dawn says
Thank you, Sam! I have made this several times since it was first posted. The ONLY reason this makes it off the pan (I literally stood there and ate half the first time I made it!) is so I can make the "Hearty Vegan Tofu Salad" which I sometimes eat on bread, but ... you know ... I have to use a spoon to get it out of the container, so a lot of it just gets eaten that way. 🙂 Love your recipes and your sunny, vegan inspired disposition.
XO,
Dawn
Dawn says
PS - this time I used half the bites for the sandwich and half for the butternut squash pasta. SO GOOD.
Sam Turnbull says
Thank you so much, Dawn! Totally flattered and thrilled you love the recipes so much 🙂
Mihaela Bob says
I made this recipe and it was so good and we liked it very much especially my husband. He said it doesn't taste like tofu. A few days ago, I told him to buy some tofu so I can make more of this delicious food and he brought home 7 blocks of tofu so that I have enough. 🙂
Sam Turnbull says
7! Haha! That's awesome!!! Thrilled you loved it so much 🙂
Martin says
This simple recipe is AMAZING! I can't believe it how simple and how tasty!!!! LOVE IT!
Sam Turnbull says
YAY! Thrilled you love it so much, Martin!
Maddie says
Finally got around to making these & it's so good! Along with some barbeque sauce to dip, they're addicting. I love how easy this is thrown together & it's such a simple marinade recipe. The tiny crunchy tofu bits might be the best part, my husband asked if I could make a pan of just the crunchy bits hahaha. Thanks for the recipe, it's another winner!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! Awesome! I have similar recipes for tacos, bolognese, and chili where it's pretty much all the crunchy bits! I bet you will love those recipes too 🙂
Angela says
I just made these and I can’t stop eating them - they are so good!!! Thank you for the great recipe!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha, thrilled you enjoy them! You're most welcome, Angela 🙂
lena says
oh boy. now i'm addicted. i had to go do work in the basement to get away from the stove!!! 1 1/2 times the marinade and it's soooooooooooo yummy!!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! Glad you enjoyed!!
Tabetha says
I’ve made these a few times. They are great as is and easy to play around with other flavors. Today, I made a half batch then added 1/4 cup of Trader Joe’s falafel mix before going in the oven. Very tasty with some tahini, veggies, and pita.
Sam Turnbull says
Awesome! So happy you enjoyed it, Tabetha 🙂
Jennifer says
I resigned myself to the fact that I didn’t like tofu, except when heavily seasoned in a scramble. I had some tofu to use and wanted something different. I gave these a try on a whim and I’m so glad I did. These are absolutely delicious! Thank you!
Sam Turnbull says
Yay!!! So glad you found another tofu recipe to love, Jennifer 🙂
Kels says
I reduced the oil and made these in the air fryer because I was doing a batch of veggies anyway. Delicious! Plan to make again and to try the variations from another reviewer using aquafaba or broth for the oil. Thanks for another great recipe.
Sam Turnbull says
Wonderful!! Thrilled you enjoyed them so much, Kels 🙂
lena says
made this tonight and it was really good. next time, i think i would double the marinade.
Sam Turnbull says
So happy you enjoyed!
Regina says
My husband has always said he did not like tofu. I made these and did not tell him what it was, just that I was trying a new recipe that would be versatile for us. He LOVED it. Could not believe it was tofu. Thank you for this recipe. A new favorite.
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! That's amazing!! Thrilled your found a recipe that you both love so much 🙂
Michael says
What if you froze the tofu first, to give them a chewier texture?
Sam Turnbull says
Freezing tofu gives the tofu a kind of spongey texture, personally, I'm not a big fan of the texture but you are welcome to try it if you are.
Christine Jost says
Sam,
I want to tell you that these are THE best tofu bites I have ever eaten! My husband, daughter (22) & son (14) love them. I can't make them fast enough before they're all gone again. I highly recommend that everyone try these. They will not be disappointed. We've used them in "chicken" salad for sandwiches, Buddha bowls, "chicken" and rice casserole. There is no limit to the different ways to use these golden bites of yumminess.
Thanks for sharing this recipe!
Sam Turnbull says
Oh that's so wonderful!!! So very happy you and your family love them so much, Christine 🙂
Lisa Nutbrown says
Hi Sam! Can these be made in an air fryer as well?
Sam Turnbull says
I haven't tried it, but I am sure it would work 🙂
Owenna Nagy says
Add me to the list of those who have fallen in love with tofu bites. They are so good coming out of the oven it's hard to not nibble the batch away before they get into my burritos, taco salad, etc. I make them exactly as directed.
Sam Turnbull says
YAY!!!!!! Thrilled you love them too, Owenna 🙂
Yulca says
Just had them in your hearty vegan tofu salad sandwich - delight!!!!
Sam Turnbull says
Yay!!!
Ginnie says
Sam, these are amazing! I didn't make any extra because I wasn't sure about the storage. You say they work fine in the fridge or freezer? What is the preferred way of reheating them? Thanks!!
Sam Turnbull says
So happy you enjoyed them, Ginnie! You can enjoy them cold, such as in a sandwich or on a salad, or you could reheat them in the oven or in a frying pan 🙂
Wanda Jenkins says
Sam, let me start by saying I had a root canal done on Friday (it is now Sunday). I have been eating nothing but smoothies for the last two days. I saw your tofu recipe and I had a half of tofu that I had to do something with it. I mixed it up and put it in the oven and it smelled soooo good that I had to taste it. Fortunately, it was soft enough for me to chew, but I had to stop myself. This is so easy to make, and so versatile! Thanks so much! Can't wait to make it hard a crispy, once I can chew again!
Sam Turnbull says
So happy you found some comforting food during your recovery, Wanda 🙂
Elizabeth says
Can this be made without oil?Or is there an oil substitute?
Sam Turnbull says
I haven't tried it without oil yet.
Michelle says
I have made them without oil I used veggie broth one time and another I used Aquafaba both turned out great . I have made them with oil too, these are delicious all around and my toddler loves them too!
Thanks!
Sam Turnbull says
Wonderful! Great to know you can enjoy it in so many ways 🙂
Jayne says
Hi Sam, please could you tell me, can I use tempeh with this recipe, am very new to this. I bought tempeh and Don't know what to do with it now .
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Jayne, tempeh is pretty different than tofu so it wouldn't work for this recipe in the same way. I recommend finding a recipe specifically designed for tempeh, such as my T.L.T. sandwich. Enjoy!
Stefani says
This is AMAZING! We put these tofu bites on your mashed potatoes and then added your onion gravy recipe. It was the perfect comfort food! Love this site and your recipes!
Sam Turnbull says
Mmmmm sounds delish!! Thanks so much, Stefani 🙂
Karen says
I made this tonight and I haven't been able to stop eating it. OMG!!!!!!! It's amazing!!!!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! SO happy you love them, Karen 🙂
Starla says
Ok so I’m gonna be honest, I was a little worried at first when you said not to press the tofu. Especially when I started to crumble it. Ehhhh....this is a little more damp than I’d like it! But I figured....she’s the expert! Let’s see how this turns out. And oh my goodness.....this is so so so good! Just like others have said....I can’t stop just eating it straight off the sheet! I didn’t have a specific plan for this so thankfully I’m free to munch on it. Glad I trusted your expertise! AMAZING!!!!!
Sam Turnbull says
Aww thanks so much, Starla! I always do a LOT of recipe testing to make sure they turn out just right, so I'm very happy you put your trust in me. So thrilled you loved the recipe so much 🙂
Meg says
Yep, these are amazingly delicious -- a nice toothy, savory, flavorful substitute for chicken if ever there was one. These will be nice in stir fries and casseroles, and are super tasty in the Hearty Tofu Salad Sandwich, which is my new favorite. Or just pick'em off the baking sheet when they come out of the oven!
Sam Turnbull says
So thrilled they are a new staple for you, Meg! 🙂
Sarah Johnson says
I've just tried making these on a whim. I only had smoked tofu in the fridge. Didn't have any garlic powder and I'd made up the marinade before realising it's meant for 700g of tofu, not the 225g I had to hand.
What the hell.
Result is absolutely delicious, though my crispy little chunks don't look anything like your picture. I've had to put them in a bag hidden in the fridge to stop my OH scoffing the lot. Flavour is, dare I say, more like bacon than chicken? Perhaps that's not the intended result. All the same, I will never miss bacon again. Nor will I ever be at a loss as how to use tofu.
I don't normally post comments on recipes but I make an exception for these. They are genius
Sam Turnbull says
Hahaha, wonderful Sarah!! I bet they had a bacon-y flavour because there was way more seasoning on yours. So happy you love them, and I very much appreciate your comment 🙂
Jessica says
I've made these three times. They are that good. I did add half tsp of onion powder and smoked paprika to the last batch. My kids said its like popcorn chicken!wonderful!!
JOANNE O'SULLIVAN says
On my third round, I switched up the olive oil for the same quantity of sesame oil. If there is any left tomorrow, I will use it in a Chinese chicken salad.
And why not try it with a splash of liquid smoke and smoked paprika for a bacon-y version? Possibilities are endless and happy to have you feeding our creativities.
Has anyone subbed brewers yeast for the Nutritional yeast? Might need to investigate...
Sam Turnbull says
So happy you and your kids love them as much as I do, Jessica! 🙂
The Daily Llama says
O. M. G...ANOTHER winner Sam! Made your seitan steak recipe last night for a satay stir fry & today...well today just kicked it all up a notch! These were FREAKING AAAAAMAZING! I used low salt soy sauce so I could add a tiny bit of vegan chicken stock powder & GUESS WHAT?! They DO taste like chicken . You’re simply brilliant!
Sam Turnbull says
Hahahaha so awesome!! Thrilled you enjoyed it so much!!
LInda says
Hi Sam,
Just wanted to let you know I made the baked tofu bites about an hour ago and can hardly stay away from them - they are absolutely delicious and addictive!!! Thanks so much for sharing the recipe. Linda from Canada
Sam Turnbull says
Wonderful!! So very thrilled you love them so much, Linda. I'm also from Canada 🙂
Barbara Gross says
I made this last night and loved it! Problem is I can’t stop eating it. Thanks for an easy great recipe.
Sam Turnbull says
Hahaha! Same problem I had! So happy you loved it, Barbara!
Lauren says
Made these last night and they were perfect! Passed along the recipe to several of my friends!
Sam Turnbull says
Awesome! Thanks for sharing, Lauren 🙂
Angela says
So simple yet so delicious!
I made it tonight and put it on top of some stir fried kale. Added a tiny bit leftover (vegan) Tzatziki. Just a perfect little Monday meal.
Sam Turnbull says
Awesome! Sounds delish 🙂
carmie alvaro says
I strongly suggest you find a better product than soy. It is very harmful for hormones which causes cancer and other diseases. I am a certified nutritionist and thought I would warn you with the updated information. Please research.
Jorge Gustavo Gonnet says
Hi Carmie, any sources you may want to cite? Although you might be right for certain people, you may be wrong for the rest (a lot of people!):
"Is there anyone who should avoid soy? Well, some people have soy allergies. A national survey found that only about 1 in 2,000 people report a soy allergy. That’s 40 times less than the most common allergen—dairy milk—and about ten times less than all the other common allergens—like fish, eggs, shellfish, nuts, wheat, or peanuts."
Source: https://nutritionfacts.org/video/who-shouldnt-eat-soy/
So there seem to be different effects for different people. If you want to read more
https://nutritionfacts.org/?s=soy
Lauren D says
Agreed; plus the recipe calls for such a small amount of soy. If anyone has concerns, you can always substitute Braggs liquid aminos or Trafer Joe’s coconut aminos:)
Lauren says
Oh boy- disregard my comment about ‘such a small amount of soy’ being called for in this recipe... I was fixating on the soy sauce ingredient! Ha!
I’m sure this recipe could just as easily work with seitan or tempeh. Regardless, for those who don’t mind a little soy in their diet- try this recipe- it’s delicious!!!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! Soy is actually very healthy for us and has been proven to help prevent breast cancer, so it's all good 🙂
Sam Turnbull says
Luckily, the whole bad hormones in soy thing is totally a myth. Soy is just a bean, and like all beans, contain lots of health benefits. Soy doesn’t contain estrogen, it contains phytoestrogens (which is plant estrogen). They are two different things. You know what does contain estrogen? Animal products, especially dairy. Animal bodies make estrogen just like ours do, and so if you eat them, you are eating their estrogen as well. That may be one of the main reasons why vegans have much healthier levels of estrogen. Another reason for this is that excess estrogen is disposed of in our bowls, and as vegans generally eat more fibrous foods (animal products contain no fiber), their systems are much better cleaned out, washing away all the excess. Soy is actually very healthful food. I recommend checking out NutritionFacts.org to learn more.
Gustavo Gonnet says
thank you Sam!
JOANNE O'SULLIVAN says
Boo-ya!
"...excess estrogen is disposed of in our bowls,..."
But you did mean bowels, right???
Lizzie says
Untrue!!! Soy is a very healthy food!
Jean TEMPEST says
I just can't wait to try this recipe....Tofu on my shopping order today yay! Your recipes I have tried so far are amazingly fabulous !
Sam Turnbull says
Aww thank you so much, Jean! I hope you love this one too 🙂
Tony Adams says
Fantastic! We cooked today for the whole resident extended family (11 people) and these were a huge hit, even with the kids some of whom are going through a fairly picky eating phase.
For those who might be curious, the parchment paper is optional. A light coating of olive oil directly on a baking sheet worked just fine.
Thanks so much for providing so many wonderful recipes and encouragement!
Sam Turnbull says
You're most welcome, Tony! So very happy that everyone enjoyed them so much 🙂
JOANNE O'SULLIVAN says
Silpat works just as well and is reusable 🙂 Love me some Silpat.
Sam Turnbull says
Great tip!
Kristi says
Yum! These look great. I can't wait to try them! I have a big family, so cooking with multiple blocks of tofu and pressing is annoying. I was super excited to see that pressing isn't even necessary with these. I can satisfy my tastebuds and laziness all at the same time. LOL
Sam Turnbull says
Hahaha! Love it. Enjoy, Kristi 🙂
Mary says
Hi Sam...big fan of yours. But really trying to go as oil free as possible. Any way to make these oil free???
Kathryn Gannon says
You need oil for your health.
Michael says
If you eat a lot of fruits and vegies, you don't really need to add oil to anything. There is a small amount of oil or fat in almost anything. But we could definately use less salt.
Jacqueline O'Connor says
I agree. Just cut the oil. I'm on a whole foods plant based life style as well, and there is no need for oil...which is a pure fat, highly processed and has with no nutritional value. We can get plenty of fat from non processed foods like avocados and nuts. Pans are non stick...so you really don't have to cook with it. If you feel like something might burn, use a little water or veggie broth. Just my 2 cents of course...everyone is on their own personal journey and we are all here doing the best we can, right?
Joanne says
Agree! Husband and I have followed a reversing heart disease plan for over 20 years. I use good oils sparingly and when I make this I use less oil, non stick pan, and keep serving size small. Everyone has different needs.
Ginnie says
I would personally throw them in an air fryer if you want to avoid the oil. My guess is that its likely there to help make everything crispy. Or just leave it out and see what happens? 🙂
andrea says
Mary, I cook oil free and just sub veggie broth in recipes that call for oil. It works really well. We do not "need" oils for our health. We need fat but we can get our fats through whole foods (avocados, nuts and seeds). 🙂
Sam Turnbull says
Thanks, Mary! I agree that oil is not a health food. It looks like some other readers had some good suggestions here as to what to use instead of oil. If you give it a try let us know how it turns out 🙂
Joanne says
These are great! When I made them with the Cobb Salad recipe, I knew they would be very versatile. I think one of the most challenging things as a vegan is finding EASY to make and EASY to transport appetizers. I like to come with something when I visit and although I like making all types of hummus, it is fun to have something completely different. These are a crowd pleaser.
There is only one problem, Sam. You need to change the title of your page because these little nuggets DO taste like chicken!! 🙂
Sam Turnbull says
Bahahahaha! I love it, Joanne!! And what a great idea to serve them as an appetizer with a nice little dip and toothpicks. Perfect!
Monica says
do you think they could be made oil free using Aquafaba in place of oil?
Sam Turnbull says
I'm not sure, if you try it, let us know how it turns out 🙂
Lisa Nutbrown says
These sound delicious! If I made a mega-batch and froze some to have on hand, would the taste and texture be the same? Also, could I cook them in an air fryer?
Sam Turnbull says
I haven't tried them in the air-fryer, but I am sure they would work I just don't know what time to recommend. I also haven't tried freezing them yet, but your comment inspired me to pop some in the freezer so I will report back and let you know how they turn out.
Sam Turnbull says
Update! I tried freezing them and they freeze just fine 🙂