Description
Bring a tropical twist to your snacking routine with these Baked Coconut Tofu Tenders with Zesty Tahini Dipping Sauce. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these plant-based tenders offer a delightful combination of sweet coconut and savory crunch. Pair them with the creamy, zesty tahini dipping sauce, and you’ve got a healthy and flavorful treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Tofu Tenders:
- 1 14-ounce block extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2/3 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup rice crispy cereal (crushed)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (for coating)
For the Tahini Dipping Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- Juice of 1/2 a lemon
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon gluten-free tamari (or soy sauce if not gluten-free)
- Water (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the tofu block into strips, roughly 1/2-inch thick, to create tender shapes.
- Create the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the shredded coconut, crushed rice crispy cereal, salt, and pepper. Pour the coconut milk into a separate shallow dish for dipping.
- Coat the Tofu Tenders: Dip each tofu strip into the coconut milk, then press it into the coconut-cereal mixture, coating all sides. Place the coated tofu tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the tofu tenders are golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare the Tahini Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, hot sauce, and gluten-free tamari. Add water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, dip-able consistency.
- Serve: Serve the crispy coconut tofu tenders warm, with the tahini dipping sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra coconut flakes if desired.
Notes
- Texture Tip: For extra crispiness, air fry the tenders at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Substitutions: For a nut-free version, replace tahini with sunflower seed butter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired