Crispy Lemongrass Tofu Bites
These delightful Crispy Lemongrass Tofu Bites are the perfect finger food for any gathering. Inspired by a beloved vegetarian recipe, they surprise guests with their deliciously rich flavor and satisfying crunch, all while being plant-based. Infused with aromatic lemongrass, ginger, and garlic, these nuggets are not just tasty but also packed with nutrition. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a meal, they're sure to impress both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Feel free to customize the herbs and spices to match your palate, and enjoy these tasty bites at your next party!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
spring onions
4 (roughly chopped)
gingerroot
1 inch piece (peeled & chopped)
lemongrass
1 stalk (finely chopped)
coriander
2 tablespoons (chopped)
garlic cloves
2 (roughly chopped)
light soy sauce
1/2 tablespoon
firm tofu
150 g (drained)
breadcrumbs
40 g
egg
1
olive oil
as needed (for frying)
pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing all the fresh ingredients. Roughly chop the spring onions, peel and chop the ginger, finely chop the lemongrass, and roughly chop the garlic.
2
In a food processor, combine the spring onions, ginger, lemongrass, coriander, and garlic. Pulse lightly until the mixture is well integrated yet still retains a chunky texture.
3
Add the soy sauce, drained firm tofu, breadcrumbs, and pepper to the food processor. Pulse until just combined; be careful not to overprocess.
4
Using wet hands, scoop out dessert spoonfuls of the mixture and shape them into flat bites or nuggets, about 1 inch thick.
5
In a non-stick frying pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Lightly fry the tofu bites for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. Alternatively, preheat your grill and place the nuggets on an oiled grill pan, brushing the tops with oil, and cook until golden, flipping halfway.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Lemongrass Tofu Bites?
They are plant-based finger foods made from firm tofu, fresh herbs, and aromatics like lemongrass, ginger, and garlic, then fried until crunchy.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, these tofu bites are 100% vegetarian as they use tofu as the primary protein source.
Can I make these tofu bites vegan?
The recipe calls for one egg as a binder, but you can substitute it with a flax egg or a starch slurry to make the recipe fully vegan.
What type of tofu is best for this recipe?
You should use firm tofu that has been well-drained to ensure the bites hold their shape and become crispy.
How do I prepare the lemongrass?
Remove the tough outer layers and finely chop the tender inner white part of the lemongrass stalk before adding it to the food processor.
Can I bake these instead of frying them?
Yes, you can grill or bake them on an oiled pan until golden brown, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
How long does it take to fry the tofu bites?
They should be lightly fried for about 3-4 minutes on each side over medium heat until they are golden and crispy.
What tools do I need for this recipe?
A food processor is essential for pulsing the ingredients into the right chunky texture, along with a non-stick frying pan.
How thick should the tofu nuggets be?
It is recommended to shape them into flat bites or nuggets that are approximately 1 inch thick.
How can I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?
Using wet hands while scooping and shaping the mixture into nuggets will prevent it from sticking to your skin.
What should I serve with Crispy Lemongrass Tofu Bites?
These bites pair excellently with sweet chili sauce, soy-ginger dipping sauce, or as a protein topping for fresh salads.
Are these tofu bites gluten-free?
The recipe uses standard breadcrumbs and soy sauce; use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari to make them gluten-free.
Can I use frozen tofu?
Yes, frozen and thawed tofu often has a meatier texture, just ensure you squeeze out all excess moisture before processing.
How many ingredients are required?
There are 11 ingredients total, including aromatics, seasonings, tofu, breadcrumbs, egg, and oil.
What flavor profile does the ginger provide?
The gingerroot adds a fresh, zesty, and slightly peppery heat that complements the citrusy lemongrass.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the fridge, or fry the bites and reheat them later in an oven to maintain crispiness.
Can I add extra spice to the recipe?
Absolutely, you can add fresh chili or red pepper flakes to the food processor if you prefer a spicier bite.
Why do I need to pulse the mixture instead of blending it?
Pulsing ensures the mixture retains a chunky texture; over-processing will turn the tofu into a mushy paste.
How many spring onions are needed?
The recipe calls for 4 spring onions, roughly chopped.
Can I use an air fryer?
Yes, spray the bites with a little oil and air fry at 400F (200C) for 10-12 minutes, turning once, until crispy.
Are these suitable for children?
Yes, they are a healthy, flavorful alternative to traditional chicken nuggets and are generally well-liked by kids.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What if my mixture is too wet to shape?
If the mixture is too soft, you can add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs to help bind it together.
Can I use lime instead of lemongrass?
While lemongrass has a unique floral citrus flavor, lime zest can be used as a substitute in a pinch, though the flavor profile will change.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a nutrient-dense, plant-based recipe that provides protein from tofu and vitamins from fresh herbs and aromatics.
How much coriander should I use?
The recipe suggests 2 tablespoons of chopped coriander for a fresh, herbal finish.
Can I freeze the uncooked nuggets?
Yes, you can shape the nuggets and freeze them on a tray before transferring to a bag; cook them directly from frozen with a few extra minutes.
Do I need to press the tofu?
While the recipe says 'drained', pressing the tofu for 15-20 minutes will result in a firmer, better-textured bite.
What kind of oil should I use for frying?
Olive oil is recommended, but any neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or grapeseed will work.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Yes, this recipe is very easy to double or triple to serve a larger crowd at a gathering.