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Garlic Butter Tofu Bites Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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