Description
This Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad is a delicious plant-based twist on classic buffalo wings, combining crispy, spicy tofu bites with a fresh, creamy Caesar salad. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal that satisfies both flavor and texture cravings, this recipe uses an air fryer for a crunchy finish and a buttery buffalo sauce for that iconic tangy kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu and Coating
- 16 ounce package of tofu (firm or extra firm)
- 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 (like Frank’s red hot)
Salad
- Salad with Caesar, ranch, or bleu cheese dressing (suggested avocado kale Caesar salad)
Instructions
- Drain and Press Tofu: Remove tofu from its packaging and drain the water. Wrap it with a clean dish towel or paper towels and gently squeeze out excess moisture. This step helps ensure the tofu crisps up nicely during cooking and takes less than a minute.
- Prepare Tofu Bites: Pull the tofu into bite-sized chunks and place in a bowl. Toss evenly with cornstarch, soy sauce, avocado oil, paprika, and garlic powder until well-coated.
- Air Fry Tofu: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Arrange the tofu chunks in the basket in a single layer. Air fry for 8 minutes, then shake or toss the tofu to turn them. Continue air frying for another 5-6 minutes until the tofu is golden and crispy. (Alternatively, baking can be done at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.)
- Make Buffalo Sauce: Melt the butter in a small bowl or pan and whisk it with the hot sauce until fully combined and smooth.
- Coat Tofu in Sauce: Immediately toss the hot crispy tofu pieces in the buffalo sauce to coat thoroughly.
- Serve: Enjoy the crispy buffalo tofu with your favorite dipping sauces or add it to a fresh salad, wrap, or bowl for a flavorful meal.
Notes
- To bake instead of air frying, preheat oven to 425°F (218°C) and bake the coated tofu on a lined baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
- Firm or extra firm tofu is best for this recipe to maintain shape and texture during frying.
- Pressing the tofu helps remove moisture and achieve crunchy texture.
- You can customize the salad base and dressing to your preference; avocado kale Caesar is highly recommended.
