Buffalo Tofu Wings Recipe

The Most Amazing Buffalo Tofu Wings Recipe You’ll Ever Try

Crispy buffalo tofu wings tantalize taste buds with their irresistible spicy crunch and plant-based charm.

Transforming humble soy protein into a mouthwatering appetizer requires clever culinary techniques and bold seasoning strategies.

Tender cubes absorb zesty marinades, creating a flavor explosion that rivals traditional wing recipes.

Restaurants and home cooks alike have embraced this innovative twist on classic comfort food.

Perfectly crisp edges and a fiery coating make these wings a crowd-pleasing alternative for vegetarians and meat lovers.

Texture plays a crucial role in mimicking the satisfying crunch everyone craves from traditional chicken wings.

Each bite promises a delectable balance of heat, crispiness, and savory satisfaction.

Buffalo Tofu Wings With Big Game-Day Energy

  • Crisp Up Plant-Based Goodness: These buffalo tofu wings transform bland tofu into a crunchy, exciting protein alternative that delivers restaurant-style satisfaction without meat.
  • Master Texture Magic: The clever technique of pressing, battering, and double-baking creates incredibly crispy exterior with a tender, soft interior that mimics classic chicken wings perfectly.
  • Customize Your Kick: The recipe offers flexible heat levels by adjusting buffalo sauce intensity, making it adaptable for spice lovers and mild-preference eaters, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delectable bites.
  • Super Simple Vegan Crowd-Pleaser: With basic kitchen tools and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up these wings in under an hour, making them ideal for game days, parties, or quick weeknight dinners.

What You Need to Create Fiery Tofu Wings

Tofu Base:
  • Tofu: Firm and protein-packed ingredient that serves as the main wing substitute, best when extra firm for maximum texture.
  • Plant-Based Milk: Creates smooth, clingy batter that helps breading stick to tofu.
Dry Coating Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides base for crispy coating and helps breading adhere.
  • Breadcrumbs: Creates crunchy exterior with golden brown finish, panko works best for extra crispiness.
  • Spices (Garlic Powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper): Adds depth of flavor and enhances overall taste profile.
Sauce and Finishing Ingredients:
  • Buffalo Sauce: Classic spicy wing flavor that gives authentic buffalo wing experience.
  • Vegan Butter: Adds richness and helps sauce coat tofu evenly, provides smooth texture.
  • Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup during baking process.

Air Fry or Bake Buffalo Tofu to Crispy Perfection

Step 1: Prepare Tofu for Transformation

Wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel. Place a heavy cutting board or cast-iron skillet on top to press out excess moisture. Let sit for 20-30 minutes to ensure a crispy texture.

Step 2: Slice Into Delectable Strips

Cut the pressed tofu into 9-12 even rectangular strips, creating perfect wing-like pieces.

Step 3: Create Crispy Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Plant-based milk
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Whisk ingredients until smooth and free of lumps.

Step 4: Set Up Coating Station

Prepare a separate bowl with seasoned breadcrumbs. Add:
  • Panko breadcrumbs
  • Dried herbs
  • Additional salt and pepper

Step 5: Dredge Tofu Pieces

Dip each tofu strip into the batter, then roll thoroughly in breadcrumb mixture. Ensure complete and even coating.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Surface

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 425°F.

Step 7: Arrange and Bake First Round

Place breaded tofu strips on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

Step 8: Craft Spicy Buffalo Sauce

In a microwave-safe bowl, mix:
  • Hot sauce
  • Melted vegan butter
  • Optional honey or maple syrup

Microwave for 45-60 seconds and stir.

Step 9: Create Final Crispy Coating

Remove tofu from oven, brush generously with buffalo sauce. Return to oven for additional 15 minutes to create extra crispy exterior.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer tofu wings to serving plate. Garnish with chopped green onions or serve with vegan ranch dressing.

Tips to Keep Tofu Firm and Flavorful

  • Maximize Moisture Removal: Press tofu thoroughly to ensure a crispy, non-soggy texture that absorbs flavors better.
  • Breadcrumb Perfection: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crunchy coating that provides a satisfying crisp with each bite.
  • Sauce Temperature Trick: Warm buffalo sauce slightly before coating to help it adhere more evenly to the tofu wings.
  • Spacing Matters: Arrange tofu pieces with some space between them on the baking sheet to achieve maximum crispiness from all sides.
  • Crispiness Boost: For ultimate crunch, broil the sauced tofu for 2-3 minutes after the final coating, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Store Tofu Wings Without Soggy Results

  • Refrigerate: Place buffalo tofu wings in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F, spread wings on a baking sheet, and warm for 10-12 minutes until crispy and heated through.
  • Microwave Option: Heat in short 30-second intervals, checking texture to prevent sogginess, max 1-2 minutes total.

Dip and Side Pairings for Buffalo Tofu

  • Sip Spicy Coolers: Pair buffalo tofu wings with a cold, refreshing beer like a light pilsner or wheat ale to balance the heat and cut through the richness of the dish.
  • Cool Down with Creamy Dips: Serve alongside vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing to provide a cooling contrast to the spicy buffalo sauce and add a smooth, tangy element.
  • Crunch with Fresh Sides: Complement the crispy tofu with a crisp green salad or coleslaw to introduce a fresh, crunchy texture that enhances the overall eating experience.
  • Zesty Beverage Companion: Try a citrusy kombucha or sparkling lemonade to help neutralize the spiciness and provide a light, fizzy accompaniment that refreshes the palate.

Variations With Heat Levels and Sauces

  • Spicy Sriracha Tofu Bites: Replace buffalo sauce with sriracha and honey for a sweet-hot kick.
  • Asian Sesame Tofu Strips: Swap buffalo sauce for a soy-sesame glaze with ginger and green onions.
  • Mediterranean Herb Tofu Wings: Use za'atar spice blend and olive oil instead of buffalo sauce, serve with tzatziki.
  • Korean Gochujang Tofu Fingers: Coat with gochujang sauce, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and add a dash of rice vinegar for tangy heat.
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Buffalo Tofu Wings Recipe

Buffalo Tofu Wings Recipe


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4.6 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Spicy Buffalo Tofu Wings bring zesty plant-based excitement to classic game day snacking. Crispy, golden tofu pieces tossed in fiery hot sauce deliver irresistible flavor that will satisfy any craving for bold, tangy comfort.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 block extra-firm tofu

Dry Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (120 milliliters) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • ¾ cup (180 milliliters) plant-based milk
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) buffalo sauce, preferably Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon vegan butter

Instructions

  1. Thoroughly drain excess liquid from tofu by wrapping in a clean kitchen towel and applying gentle pressure with a weighted object for approximately 20-25 minutes.
  2. Transform the pressed tofu block into uniform rectangular strips, ensuring consistent sizing for even cooking and coating.
  3. Activate the oven and set the temperature to a high heat of 425°F, simultaneously preparing a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent potential sticking.
  4. Craft a robust wet batter by whisking together flour, plant-based milk, and complementary spices until achieving a smooth, lump-free consistency.
  5. Create a separate station with seasoned breadcrumbs, ready for coating the tofu strips.
  6. Meticulously dredge each tofu strip first through the liquid mixture, then generously roll in breadcrumbs, ensuring complete and even coverage.
  7. Carefully position the coated tofu strips on the prepared baking sheet, maintaining space between each piece for optimal crispiness.
  8. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, rotating the pieces midway to guarantee uniform browning and crunch.
  9. While tofu bakes, swiftly combine buffalo sauce and vegan butter, warming the mixture briefly to create a cohesive, glossy coating.
  10. Once baked, generously brush or toss the crispy tofu strips with the spicy buffalo sauce, ensuring total flavor immersion.
  11. For maximum crispness, return sauced tofu to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, developing a caramelized exterior.
  12. Plate the wings immediately, serving hot with optional dipping accompaniments like vegan ranch or celery sticks.

Notes

  • Pressing tofu thoroughly removes excess water, ensuring a crispy and firm texture that absorbs flavors more effectively.
  • Cutting tofu into uniform strips guarantees even cooking and consistent crunchiness throughout each wing.
  • Using parchment paper prevents sticking and promotes golden-brown edges without added oil or mess.
  • Whisking batter ingredients creates a smooth, clump-free coating that helps breadcrumbs adhere perfectly to tofu strips.
  • Flipping tofu midway during baking ensures balanced crispiness and prevents burning on one side.
  • Microwaving buffalo sauce with vegan butter helps blend ingredients seamlessly and creates a glossy, even coating for maximum flavor infusion.
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 285
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 1200mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
Liam O'Brien

Liam O’Brien

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Traditional Irish Dishes
  • Farm-to-Table Cooking
  • Recipe Creation
  • Teaching Cooking Skills
  • Sustainable Food Practices

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (now Technological University Dublin)

  • Program: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and exploring both Irish and international cuisines.

Ballymaloe Cookery School, County Cork, Ireland

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Farm-to-table cooking, emphasizing the use of fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Liam O’Brien is the co-founder and kitchen soul behind Good Tasting Meals, a chef who believes that cooking shouldn’t feel stressful or complicated.

He earned his culinary stripes at Technological University Dublin and polished his farm-to-table skills at Ballymaloe Cookery School. With over 15 years flipping pans and stirring up stories, Liam has worked in family cafés, bustling bistros, and everything in between.

At Good Tasting Meals, Liam brings you recipes that feel like home: cozy, simple, and full of flavor.

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