Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Crispy Buffalo Tofu recipe is a flavorful, plant-based twist on a classic favorite. With a crunchy exterior and spicy buffalo sauce, it’s perfect for salads, wraps, or as a tasty snack.

Ingredients

• 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
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• Salad with Caesar, ranch, or bleu cheese dressing (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain excess water. Wrap it in a clean dish towel or paper towels and gently press to remove moisture, about a minute.
2. Step 2: Break the tofu into bite-sized pieces. Toss with cornstarch, soy sauce, avocado oil, paprika, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
3. Step 3: Place the tofu in an air fryer and cook at 400°F for 8 minutes. Shake or toss the tofu, then air fry for another 5-6 minutes until golden and crispy. (For baking, see tips below.)
4. Step 4: Melt the butter and whisk in the hot sauce to make the buffalo sauce. Toss the crispy tofu pieces in the sauce until coated.
5. Step 5: Serve immediately. Enjoy dipped in your favorite dressing, or add to wraps, bowls, or salads for a spicy crunch.

Tips & Variations

• For baking, preheat oven to 425°F and bake tofu on a lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
• Swap avocado oil for olive oil or another neutral oil if needed.
• Use vegan butter to make this dish completely plant-based.
• Try different hot sauces or add honey or maple syrup for a milder, sweet-spicy flavor.
• Serve on a bed of kale or mixed greens with your choice of salad dressing for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep the tofu from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use silken tofu for this recipe?

Silken tofu is too soft and won’t hold up well during cooking. Firm or extra-firm tofu is best for achieving crispy texture.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Replace the butter with your favorite vegan butter or a neutral oil to keep the buffalo tofu fully plant-based.

Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 70 reviews

Deliciously crispy Buffalo tofu bites tossed in a spicy hot sauce, perfect for topping salads, bowls, or wraps. This vegan-friendly recipe offers a flavorful alternative to traditional Buffalo wings, featuring a crispy air-fried exterior with bold flavors of paprika and garlic.

• Author: Logan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 13 minutes
• Total Time: 23 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

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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 Red Hot)

Serving

• Salad with Caesar, ranch, or bleu cheese dressing (avocado kale Caesar salad recommended)

Instructions

1. Drain and Prep Tofu: Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain off the water. Wrap the block in a clean dish towel or paper towels and gently press or squeeze to remove excess moisture. This step should take less than a minute to ensure the tofu crisps well when cooked.
2. Cut and Coat Tofu: Pull the tofu apart into bite-sized chunks. Place them in a mixing bowl and toss with cornstarch, soy sauce, avocado oil, paprika, and garlic powder until every piece is well coated, creating a flavorful crust.
3. Air Fry Tofu: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the tofu chunks in a single layer and air fry for 8 minutes. Shake or toss the tofu to ensure even cooking, then air fry for an additional 5 to 6 minutes until the tofu is golden brown and crispy on all sides.
4. Make Buffalo Sauce: While the tofu cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Whisk the melted butter with the hot sauce thoroughly to create a smooth, spicy Buffalo sauce.
5. Toss Tofu in Sauce: Transfer the crispy tofu to a bowl and toss immediately with the prepared Buffalo sauce, coating each piece evenly with the spicy, buttery glaze.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the crispy Buffalo tofu hot as a protein-packed topping for salads, such as an avocado kale Caesar, inside wraps, or alongside your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or bleu cheese for an irresistible snack or meal.

Notes

• For baking instead of air frying, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place coated tofu pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.
• Press the tofu for at least 15-30 minutes if you have time for firmer texture before coating.
• To keep the tofu crispy, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket or baking sheet.

Keywords: Buffalo tofu, crispy tofu, vegan appetizer, plant-based buffalo wings, air fryer recipe, spicy tofu