Garlic Butter Tofu Bites Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Butter Tofu Bites are a deliciously crispy and flavorful plant-based treat that’s perfect as a snack, appetizer, or addition to any meal. Marinated in a savory garlic mixture and cooked in vegan butter, these tofu cubes turn irresistibly golden and aromatic. Simple to prepare, they are sure to become a favorite for garlic lovers everywhere.

Ingredients

• 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed into bite-sized pieces (about 3/4-inch)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 large cloves garlic, minced fresh
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegan butter (Earth Balance or Miyoko’s recommended)
• Additional minced garlic (optional, for extra garlic flavor)
• Fresh parsley, chopped generously, for garnish
• Optional: lemon wedges, red pepper flakes, extra nutritional yeast

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well until the marinade is aromatic and well blended.
2. Step 2: Add the pressed and cubed tofu to the marinade. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly. Let the tofu marinate for at least 15–30 minutes, or longer if time permits.
3. Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the vegan butter and let it melt and foam.
4. Step 4: Place the tofu cubes in the skillet in a single layer without crowding. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 10–12 minutes total. Work in batches if needed.
5. Step 5: Transfer the cooked tofu bites to a serving plate. Garnish generously with fresh parsley and optional toppings like lemon wedges or red pepper flakes.
6. Step 6: Serve immediately while hot and crispy. Enjoy as a snack or alongside your favorite dishes.

Tips & Variations

• Press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture for the best crispy texture.
• For extra garlic flavor, add more minced garlic to the butter while cooking.
• Try swapping paprika with smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
• Serve with a squeeze of lemon for brightness and tang.
• Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Storage

Store any leftover tofu bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat to regain their crispiness, or use a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain a crispy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use soft or silken tofu instead of extra-firm?

Extra-firm tofu is best for this recipe because it holds its shape and crisps up nicely. Soft or silken tofu is too delicate and will break apart during cooking.

Is nutritional yeast necessary?

Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, umami flavor that enhances the marinade, but it can be omitted if you don’t have it on hand. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to the garlic and soy sauce.

Garlic Butter Tofu Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 95 reviews

These Garlic Butter Tofu Bites are crispy, golden cubes of extra-firm tofu marinated in a rich garlicky blend and cooked in vegan butter for a decadent, savory treat. Perfectly seasoned with soy sauce, nutritional yeast, and paprika, this delightful dish offers a crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside texture with fresh parsley garnish for brightness. Ideal as a flavorful appetizer or a satisfying snack, these bites bring irresistible garlic butter goodness to any table.

• Author: rami
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 3–4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Vegan, American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Garlic Marinade

• 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed into 3/4-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 large cloves garlic, minced fresh
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Cooking

• 1/4 cup vegan butter (Earth Balance or Miyoko’s recommended)
• Additional minced garlic (optional, for extra garlic flavor)

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped generously
• Optional: lemon wedges
• Optional: red pepper flakes
• Optional: extra nutritional yeast

Instructions

1. Create your garlicky marinade: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, paprika, and black pepper until well mixed and aromatic, offering a savory garlic scent.
2. Marinate those bites: Add the pressed and cubed tofu to the marinade, tossing gently to coat every piece thoroughly. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes, or longer if possible, so the flavors deeply infuse.
3. Melt that vegan butter: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the vegan butter. Let it melt completely and begin to foam, releasing a rich garlic butter aroma throughout your kitchen.
4. Get those bites golden: Place the marinated tofu cubes into the skillet in a single layer. Avoid crowding by working in batches if needed. Cook relatively undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally until each side is golden brown and crispy, approximately 10-12 minutes total.
5. Finish with freshness: Once golden and crispy, transfer the tofu bites to a serving plate. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant, fresh contrast that complements the rich garlic butter coating.
6. Serve hot and watch them vanish: Serve immediately while the tofu bites are hot and crispy. These delicious bites are perfect for sharing and are often quickly devoured by guests.

Notes

• Press tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture for better crispiness.
• Marinate tofu longer for deeper flavor penetration.
• Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking.
• Work in batches to avoid overcrowding and to ensure even browning.
• Adjust garlic quantity to your preference; add extra minced garlic during cooking for stronger flavor.
• Vegan butter brands like Earth Balance or Miyoko’s are recommended for best flavor.
• Optional garnishes like lemon wedges or red pepper flakes add brightness or heat if desired.
• Best served fresh and hot as tofu tends to lose crispiness when cooled.

Keywords: garlic butter tofu, vegan appetizer, crispy tofu bites, garlic tofu, tofu recipes, plant-based snack, vegan butter tofu