Garlic Butter Tofu Bites Recipe

Introduction

These Garlic Butter Tofu Bites are a flavorful, crispy treat perfect for any meal or snack. Marinated in a garlicky, savory blend and cooked in vegan butter, they deliver a rich and satisfying bite that even tofu skeptics will love.

Ingredients

• 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
• 1/4 cup vegan butter (Earth Balance or Miyoko’s recommended)
• Additional minced garlic (optional, for extra garlic lovers)
• Fresh parsley, chopped generously (for garnish)
• Optional: lemon wedges, red pepper flakes, extra nutritional yeast (for serving)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well until fragrant and evenly blended.
2. Step 2: Add the pressed, cubed tofu to the marinade. Toss gently to coat each piece thoroughly. Let it marinate for at least 15–30 minutes, longer if possible for deeper flavor.
3. Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the vegan butter completely, allowing it to foam slightly.
4. Step 4: Place the marinated tofu cubes in a single layer in the skillet. Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden and crispy. This will take about 10–12 minutes total. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
5. Step 5: Transfer the cooked tofu bites to a serving plate. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley for color and brightness.
6. Step 6: Serve immediately while hot and crispy. Optional lemon wedges, red pepper flakes, or extra nutritional yeast can be added to taste.

Tips & Variations

• Press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture for crispier bites.
• For a spicier kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes during cooking or garnish.
• Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
• Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade for a different flavor profile.
• Double the marinade and save half as a dipping sauce for extra flavor.

Storage

Store leftover tofu bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness, or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

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 well. Soft or silken tofu is too delicate and will not crisp or maintain texture during cooking.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan when using vegan butter and soy sauce or tamari. It’s a delicious plant-based option packed with flavor.

Garlic Butter Tofu Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 186 reviews

Garlic Butter Tofu Bites are crispy, golden cubes of extra-firm tofu marinated in a flavorful garlic and soy sauce blend, then pan-fried in rich vegan butter. This easy vegan appetizer or snack bursts with umami depth from nutritional yeast, a hint of warmth from paprika, and fresh brightness from parsley garnish, making it an irresistible bite for garlic lovers and tofu fans alike.

• Author: Mick
• 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

For the Garlic Marinade:

• 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed into 3/4-inch bite-sized 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, red pepper flakes, 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.
2. Marinate those bites: Add pressed, cubed tofu to the marinade and toss gently until fully coated. Let it sit for at least 15-30 minutes to absorb the flavors; longer marinating is better if time allows.
3. Melt that vegan butter: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the vegan butter and allow it to melt completely and start to foam, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma.
4. Get those bites golden: Place the marinated tofu cubes in the melted butter in a single layer, cooking in batches if needed to avoid crowding. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy, about 10-12 minutes total.
5. Finish with freshness: Transfer the golden, crispy tofu to a serving plate. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley to add color and brightness that balances the rich garlic butter.
6. Serve hot and watch them vanish: Serve immediately while the tofu bites are hot and crispy. These bites are incredibly addictive and perfect to enjoy right away.

Notes

• Press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess water for optimal crispiness.
• Marinate longer for more intense garlic flavor.
• Work in batches when cooking to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure even browning.
• Optional toppings like lemon wedges or red pepper flakes add a nice contrast.
• Use tamari for a gluten-free version.

Keywords: garlic butter tofu, crispy tofu bites, vegan appetizer, tofu marinade, easy vegan snack