Crispy Pretzel-Crusted Tofu Tenders (Egg-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free)
Crispy Pretzel-Crusted Tofu Tenders are a fun twist on classic tofu nuggets. Extra-firm tofu is coated in a crunchy pretzel crust and baked until golden and crisp. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for an easy allergy-friendly dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights, lunchboxes, or after-school meals.
Ingredients
- 1 block extra-firm tofu
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup dairy-free milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder (OR garlic dust)*
Instructions
- 1Press the Tofu
Press the tofu for at least 20-30 minutes. Tear or cut into thick strips that resemble chicken tenders.
- 2Prepare the Coating
Crush pretzels until they're coarse crumbs. Mix with the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt.
- 3Make the Batter
Whisk together the flour, dairy-free milk, mustard, and garlic powder. The mixture should resemble pancake batter.
- 4Coat the Tenders
Dip tofu into batter. Then press into pretzel crumbs. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- 5Bake
Lightly spray tops with oil. Bake at 425°F for 25-30 minutes. Flip halfway through. Bake until deeply golden and crisp.
*Garlic Dust option is a spice I use regularly, but can be substituted for regular garlic powder. Link in my shop for more details.
