Print

Crispy Cajun Tofu Bites with Spicy Aioli – Easy Vegan Recipe

crispy cajun tofu bites - featured image
Print Recipe

These crispy Cajun tofu bites are pan-fried to golden perfection with a shatteringly crunchy cornstarch coating and bold Cajun spices. Served with a quick spicy aioli, they’re a satisfying plant-based appetizer or main that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2–3 tablespoons avocado oil or vegetable oil
  • ½ cup vegan mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Pinch of salt
  • Fresh chopped parsley or green onions (optional)
  • Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu: Remove tofu from packaging and drain. Wrap in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, place on a plate, and set something heavy on top. Let press for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Cut the tofu: Once pressed, cut into bite-sized cubes, about ¾ to 1 inch each.
  3. Mix the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Season and coat the tofu: Place tofu cubes in a large bowl. Sprinkle seasoning mixture over tofu and gently toss to coat. Add cornstarch and toss again until evenly dusted. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  5. Make the spicy aioli: In a small bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Adjust heat to taste. Set aside in fridge.
  6. Heat the oil: Place a large non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add enough oil to coat the bottom (2-3 tablespoons). Heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
  7. Fry the tofu: Carefully place tofu cubes in hot oil in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes. Rotate to cook all sides, about 10-12 minutes total.
  8. Drain and rest: Transfer tofu to a plate lined with paper towels. Sprinkle with a tiny pinch of salt while hot. Let rest for 2 minutes.
  9. Serve immediately: Arrange tofu on a serving plate. Drizzle with spicy aioli or serve on the side. Garnish with parsley or green onions and lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip pressing the tofu—it’s key for crispiness. Let the coated tofu rest for 5 minutes before frying to help the crust form. Use medium-high heat, not high, to avoid burning the spices. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan. For an oil-free version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy tofu, Cajun tofu, vegan appetizer, spicy aioli, plant-based, gluten-free, easy tofu recipe

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/crispy-cajun-tofu-bites-with-spicy-aioli-easy-vegan-recipe/