Description
These Dill Pickle Tofu Bites are a crispy, tangy, and flavorful vegan appetizer or snack. Marinated in dill pickle juice and baked to golden perfection with aromatic spices, they offer a unique twist on traditional tofu dishes, perfect for plant-based eaters and pickle lovers alike.
Ingredients
Tofu and Marinade
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu (pressed and cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 1/2 cup dill pickle juice
Coating and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Fresh chopped dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Press the Tofu: Press the tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a firmer texture that crisps up nicely during baking. After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes for even marinating and cooking.
- Marinate: Place the tofu cubes in a bowl or resealable bag, then pour the dill pickle juice over them. Ensure all pieces are submerged or evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, to let the tofu absorb the tangy pickle flavors.
- Coat the Tofu: Drain the marinated tofu and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt until each cube is evenly coated, which will help create a flavorful, crispy crust during baking.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer on the sheet to allow for even air circulation. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the cubes halfway through to ensure they get golden and crispy on all sides.
- Serve: Remove the tofu bites from the oven and optionally garnish them with freshly chopped dill for an extra pop of herbal freshness. Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or addition to salads and bowls.
Notes
- Pressing tofu is essential to remove water for better texture and to allow marinade absorption.
- Marinating overnight will intensify the pickle flavor in the tofu.
- Make sure to pat the tofu dry before coating to help the seasoning stick and promote crispiness.
- The tofu bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
