Name: Crispy Bang Bang Tofu That Will Wow Your Tastebuds!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 package Extra-Firm Tofu; 1/2 cup Cornstarch; 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1/2 cup Vegan Mayonnaise; 3 tablespoons Sriracha; 1 tablespoon White Sugar; 1 teaspoon Salt

There’s a culinary thrill that comes with discovering a dish that challenges your expectations, and for me, that dish is Bang Bang Tofu. Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, this plant-based delight transforms tofu from a mere ingredient into a star of the show! With only 8 ingredients, this Bang Bang Tofu recipe is not just straightforward to whip up; it also serves as a fantastic crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer before dinner or a satisfying snack to enjoy on its own, this recipe offers the perfect blend of convenience and flavor. Are you ready to impress your guests—or possibly even yourself—with this delightful and versatile dish? Let’s dive in!

Why is Bang Bang Tofu a Must-Try?

Crispy Texture: The Bang Bang Tofu achieves an incredible crunch on the outside while maintaining a creamy, flavorful interior that will have you reaching for seconds.

Quick Prep: With only 8 simple ingredients, this recipe can be prepared in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, snack, or even as a delightful addition to your dinner plate, pairing beautifully with side dishes like Coconut Cilantro Rice or Pearl Couscous.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of spicy mayo and crunchy tofu creates a flavor explosion that will delight both tofu lovers and skeptics alike—ideal for impressing guests or enjoying solo!

Easy Customization: Feel free to play with the recipe by swapping ingredients, such as using crushed cornflakes instead of panko for a new twist. You can even add veggies for a colorful, nutritious touch!

Bang Bang Tofu Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create this succulent dish!

For the Tofu
• Extra-Firm Tofu – This is essential for providing the main structure and achieving optimal crispiness.
• Cornstarch – A key ingredient that helps create that crunchy batter on each tofu cube.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Adds an extra crunch and texture that makes every bite irresistible.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor with a mild garlic essence; feel free to adjust based on your preference.

For the Sauce
• Vegan Mayonnaise – This creamy base is perfect for the secret Bang Bang sauce; you can swap it for regular mayo if not vegan.
• Sriracha – Adds a kick of spiciness to the sauce; substitute with sweet chili sauce for a milder taste.
• White Sugar – Balances out the heat of the sauce with a touch of sweetness; adjust to your liking.
• Salt – A simple but vital ingredient that enhances the overall flavor of this Bang Bang Tofu.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Tofu

Step 1: Prepare Tofu
Begin by removing the extra-firm tofu from its packaging, then drain any excess water. To press it, wrap the tofu in a clean towel and place a weight on top for about 5 minutes. This step helps remove moisture, allowing the tofu to achieve a crispier texture when cooked.

Step 2: Cut Tofu
Once the tofu is pressed, slice it into 32 cubes, approximately 1 inch each. Aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking. Set these tofu cubes aside as you prepare the next steps, ensuring they’re ready to be transformed into the delicious Bang Bang Tofu.

Step 3: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the tofu to a crispy finish. While the oven heats up, gather your baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking, making the next steps smoother.

Step 4: Coat Tofu
In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, and garlic powder. Toss the drained tofu cubes into this mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides. The panko provides a delightful crunch, while the cornstarch helps the coating adhere effectively during baking.

Step 5: Bake Tofu
Spread the coated tofu cubes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they become golden and crispy on all sides. Keep an eye on them as they bake and look for a lovely golden color.

Step 6: Prepare Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix together vegan mayonnaise, sriracha, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the sweetness and spiciness to your liking, adding a little water if the sauce is too thick. This creamy bang bang sauce is the perfect complement to the crispy tofu you just baked.

Step 7: Combine
Once the tofu is perfectly baked and crispy, transfer the tofu cubes to the bowl with your vibrant sauce. Gently mix until all the tofu pieces are well-coated in the bang bang sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful and enticing.

Step 8: Serve
Your Bang Bang Tofu is now ready to shine! Serve it over coconut cilantro rice or enjoy it as a standalone appetizer. For an extra touch, garnish with red pepper flakes and chopped chives or scallions to add some color and an aromatic finish to your dish.

What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Tofu?

Creating a well-rounded meal around this crispy, spicy delight will elevate your dining experience to new heights.

Coconut Cilantro Rice: This fragrant and creamy rice dish pairs beautifully, offering a subtle sweetness that complements the spicy tofu. Its tropical notes will transport your taste buds to paradise.
Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a zesty vinaigrette add a crisp, refreshing contrast to the crunchy tofu. The bright flavors and textures create a delightful balance on your plate.
Spicy Noodle Salad: Tossed with crunchy veggies and a tangy dressing, this dish adds an extra kick that harmonizes with the bold flavors of your Bang Bang Tofu. It’s a vibrant option that guarantees satisfaction.
Pearl Couscous: The fluffy, chewy texture of pearl couscous brings a unique twist, while its mild flavor allows the tofu to shine. Tossed with herbs, it becomes an eye-catching side.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies stir-fried with garlic and ginger bring a healthy crunch that perfectly complements the creaminess of the Bang Bang sauce. A medley of colors and tastes!
Chilled White Wine or Sparkling Water: Achieve the perfect pairing with a chilled glass of white wine to mellow the spice, or enjoy a refreshing sparkling water with lemon for a non-alcoholic option.
Mango Sorbet: Finish your meal with this fruity, creamy dessert that cleanses the palate and provides a sweet counterpoint to the savory tofu. It’s a light and refreshing way to end on a high note.

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Tofu

Pressing Tofu: Ensure you press your extra-firm tofu adequately to remove excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving a crispy texture in your Bang Bang Tofu.
Coating Technique: When tossing the tofu in cornstarch and panko, make sure to coat each piece evenly; this helps create that irresistibly crunchy layer while baking.
Adjusting Spice: Don’t hesitate to adjust the sriracha based on your heat preference. If overly spicy, balance it out with a bit more sugar in the sauce for a smoother finish.
Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens vary. Look for a golden-brown hue to ensure your tofu is perfectly crispy without burning.
Storage: Store any leftovers separately—place the tofu in an airtight container and the sauce in another to keep crispiness intact when reheating.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Bang Bang Tofu cubes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the tofu and coat it in the cornstarch mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored separately for up to 3 days—this helps maintain the crispy texture of the tofu when baked. When you’re ready to enjoy your Bang Bang Tofu, just bake the coated tofu as directed, combine it with the prepared sauce, and serve it over your choice of rice or vegetables for a quick, flavor-packed meal. Enjoy the convenience of having a delicious plant-based dish ready to go!

Bang Bang Tofu Variations You’ll Love

Feel like getting creative with your Bang Bang Tofu? Discover these delightful twists that will spark your culinary adventure!

Cornflake Coating: Swap panko for crushed cornflakes to create a lighter, more textured crunch. The transformation will surprise you!
Arrowroot Alternative: Use arrowroot starch instead of cornstarch for a subtly different coating that’s just as crispy and inviting. The flavor remains beautifully bright!
Veggie Boost: Toss in colorful vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini on the baking sheet. They roast beautifully alongside the tofu, adding flavor and nutrients!
Sweet Heat: Replace sriracha with sweet chili sauce for a gentler flavor. It’s an excellent option for the heat-sensitive while still delivering a deliciously bold taste.
Maple Sweetness: Substitute white sugar with maple syrup for a unique sweetness that enhances the sauce’s depth and richness. It’s a warm, inviting twist!
Nutty Crunch: For an added flavor layer, include ground nuts in your breadcrumb mixture. Toasted almonds or cashews provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle dried herbs, like oregano or thyme, into the panko breadcrumbs for an aromatic twist. Fresh herbs can also be tossed with the finished dish for added brightness.

Looking for more exciting ideas? Check out my Bang Bang Chicken or try a flavorful Tofu Steak with Mashed Sweet Potato for a hearty meal! Each option opens the door for tasty exploration. Happy cooking!

Storage Tips for Bang Bang Tofu

Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Tofu in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain its crispiness, keep the sauce in a separate container.

Freezer: If you want to save the tofu for longer, freeze the cooked tofu for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the tofu in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes for optimal crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may lose its delightful crunch.

Freezing Sauce: The bang bang sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container; simply thaw before use.

Bang Bang Tofu Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my tofu is ripe enough for cooking?
Absolutely! When selecting extra-firm tofu for your Bang Bang Tofu, look for a block that feels solid and has a consistent texture—there shouldn’t be any excess moisture seeping from the package. A tofu block with a firm feel and no dark spots is your best bet for achieving that perfect crispiness.

What’s the best way to store leftover Bang Bang Tofu?
Very important! Store any leftover Bang Bang Tofu in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it crispy, make sure to store the sauce in a separate container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the tofu in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes for optimal texture.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Tofu for later?
Yes, you can! For freezing, first, ensure your Bang Bang Tofu is completely cooled. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven to restore its delightful crunch.

What should I do if my panko breadcrumbs aren’t sticking to the tofu?
No problem! If you find that your breadcrumbs aren’t adhering, you can lightly coat the tofu cubes with a thin layer of olive oil before tossing them in the cornstarch and panko mixture. This will help bind the crumbs better and ensure a beautiful crispy layer once baked.

Is Bang Bang Tofu safe for those with common allergies?
Yes! However, keep in mind that this recipe is vegan and does not contain common allergens like eggs or dairy. Be cautious if you’re serving it to others—check if anyone has an allergy to tofu or soy. You can swap out the Sriracha with a mild sauce if spicy food is a concern, or use alternative vegan mayonnaise options to accommodate different dietary needs.