Tofu Croutons Recipe

Tofu croutons are a delicious and versatile alternative to traditional bread croutons. They are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, adding a delightful texture and protein boost to salads, soups, or as a snack. This recipe is perfect for those following a vegan, gluten-free, or low-carb diet.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Course Appetizer, Salad, Snack

Cuisine Fusion, Vegan

Servings 4 people

Calories 100 kcal

Equipment

Cutting board
Knife
Mixing bowl
Baking sheet or air fryer
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Paper towels or a clean kitchen towel

Ingredients

1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm tofu
2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prep the Tofu

Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. This can be done by wrapping the tofu block in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top for about 20-30 minutes.

Cut the Tofu

Once pressed, cut the tofu into small cubes, approximately 1/2 inch in size.

Season the Tofu

In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the tofu cubes to the bowl and gently toss them to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.

Bake the Tofu

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Spread the seasoned tofu cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu croutons are golden brown and crispy.
Alternatively, you can use an air fryer: preheat to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Cool and Serve

Allow the tofu croutons to cool slightly before serving. They will become even crispier as they cool.

Notes

Tips

Pressing Tofu: Properly pressing the tofu is crucial to achieve the desired texture. Use a tofu press if available.
Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings such as nutritional yeast, chili powder, or herbs like thyme and rosemary.
Storage: Store leftover tofu croutons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to retain their crispiness.
Oil-Free Option: For a lower-fat version, you can bake the tofu without oil, though they may be less crispy.

Conclusion

Tofu croutons are a healthy, protein-packed alternative to traditional croutons, offering versatility and a satisfying crunch. Whether you're adding them to a salad, soup, or simply snacking, they bring a delightful texture and flavor that's sure to be a hit.