Crispy Southern Fried Tofu

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Rest Time 10 mins
Total Time 35 mins
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Description

Crispy Southern fried tofu with a crunchy seasoned coating and tender inside—perfectly vegan and full of Southern-inspired flavor.

An easy plant-based entrée or appetizer that's irresistibly crunchy and savory. 


Ingredients
  • 16 ounces extra firm organic tofu
  • 1 cup non-dairy milk
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup all purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • oil for frying (avocado or vegetable)
Instructions
  1. 1

    Press the tofu
    Use a Tofu Press or wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place something heavy on top. Let it press for at least 20–30 minutes to remove excess moisture. This step is key for maximum crispiness.

  2. 2

    Set up two shallow bowls:

      • One with your wet mixture (plant milk and seasonings)
      • One with your dry mixture (flour, cornstarch, and Southern-style spices.
  3. 3

    Slice the tofu into six pieces. Dip each piece into the wet mixture, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks well.

  4. 4

    Heat a generous layer of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking—drop in a pinch of flour to test; it should sizzle immediately.

  5. 5

    Carefully add the coated tofu to the pan in a single layer, leaving space between pieces. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until deeply golden and crispy. Flip gently to keep the coating intact.

  6. 6

    Transfer the fried tofu to a paper towel–lined plate or wire rack. Let it rest for a minute to set the crust.

  7. 7

    Enjoy hot and crispy on its own, dipped in your favorite sauce, tucked into sandwiches, or served Southern-style with classic sides.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 301kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 17.3g27%
Saturated Fat 2.5g13%
Sodium 507mg22%
Potassium 207mg6%
Total Carbohydrate 24g8%
Dietary Fiber 2g8%
Sugars 2g
Protein 12g24%
Vitamin A 213 IU
Vitamin C 1.3 mg
Calcium 160 mg
Iron 2.7 mg
Vitamin E 0.9 mg
Vitamin K 6.7 mcg
Vitamin B6 0.1 mg
Folate 45 mcg
Magnesium 35 mg
Zinc 1.1 mg
Selenium 9 mcg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: Vegan crispy southern fried tofu recipe
Read it online: https://sproutfulkitchen.com/recipe/crispy-southern-fried-tofu/