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Tofu "Chicken" Nuggets (Vegan KFC Copycat)

Tofu Chicken Nuggets: Crispy Vegan KFC Copycat


  • Author: Alexander Knight
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

Enjoy these delicious vegan tofu nuggets, a copycat recipe for KFC’s famous fried chicken. They’re crispy, savory, and perfect for a meat-free meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil, for frying


Instructions

  1. Cut the pressed tofu into nugget-sized pieces.
  2. In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  3. In another shallow dish, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for a minute to curdle slightly.
  4. Dip each tofu nugget first into the plant-based milk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  5. Then, dredge the wet tofu nugget in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  6. Repeat the dipping and dredging process for an extra crispy coating.
  7. Place the coated nuggets on a plate or baking sheet.
  8. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to around 350°F (175°C).
  9. Carefully add the tofu nuggets to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
  10. Fry for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  11. Remove the nuggets with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
  12. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

  • For best results, press the tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove as much water as possible.
  • You can adjust the herbs and spices to your preference.
  • Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for crispy nuggets.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4-5 nuggets
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
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