Buffalo Tofu Wings

Buffalo tofu wings are a fantastic vegan option for any gathering! Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying game day, or simply craving comfort food, these spicy and crispy wings deliver on flavor and satisfaction. Coated in delicious buffalo sauce, they make for a perfect appetizer that everyone can enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making buffalo tofu wings is quick and manageable.
• Flavor Explosion – The combination of spices and buffalo sauce creates a bold flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy them as an appetizer, in salads, or as part of a sandwich for a hearty meal.
• Healthier Alternative – These wings are baked instead of fried, providing a lighter option without sacrificing taste.
• Suitable for Everyone – This recipe is vegan-friendly, making it perfect for all dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your buffalo tofu wings successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Gathering everything beforehand will streamline the process!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Tofu press (or heavy objects)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Tofu press (or heavy objects) – This helps remove excess moisture from the tofu, allowing it to absorb flavors better.
• Baking sheet – Provides a flat surface for even cooking and ensures your wings get crispy.

Ingredients

For the Buffalo Tofu Wings

• 1 block extra-firm tofu
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup plant-based milk
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup buffalo sauce, preferably Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Sauce
• 1 tbsp vegan butter

How to Make Buffalo Tofu Wings

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

Remove tofu from its wrapping and drain the water. Use a tofu press or create your own at home by wrapping the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or folded paper towels. Place it on a plate with heavy objects like books or jars. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes. This removes excess moisture.

Step 2: Slice the Tofu

Slice the block of tofu into rectangular strips. Aim to create about 9-12 strips for optimal wing size.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Make the Batter

In a bowl, combine flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and salt. Whisk until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps.

Step 5: Prepare Breadcrumbs

Place panko breadcrumbs in another bowl. This will be used to coat the battered tofu.

Step 6: Coat the Tofu Strips

Using a fork, dip one strip of tofu into the wet batter. Flip it to coat both sides. Tap off any excess batter before dipping it into the panko breadcrumbs. Toss gently to evenly coat and transfer to the baking sheet. Repeat until all strips are coated.

Step 7: Bake the Wings

Bake the coated tofu wings in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking for even crispiness.

Step 8: Prepare Buffalo Sauce Mixture

In a bowl, mix buffalo sauce with melted vegan butter (microwave for about 1 minute). Stir well until combined.

Step 9: Toss in Sauce

Once baked, remove wings from the oven. Dip each wing into the buffalo sauce mixture, ensuring both sides are coated evenly. Tap off any excess sauce.

Step 10: Serve or Bake Again

You can serve your buffalo tofu wings immediately or return them to the oven for an additional 15 minutes for extra crispiness. Pair with celery sticks and vegan ranch dip for an added treat! Enjoy!

How to Serve Buffalo Tofu Wings

Buffalo tofu wings are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging during game day, these wings make for an exciting appetizer or snack.

With Celery and Vegan Ranch Dip

• Serve the buffalo tofu wings alongside crunchy celery sticks for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair them with a creamy vegan ranch dip to enhance the flavor and add a cooling element.

On a Salad

• Toss buffalo tofu wings on top of your favorite mixed greens for a hearty salad.
• Add cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and a balsamic vinaigrette for extra flavor.

In a Wrap

• Create a delicious wrap by placing buffalo tofu wings in a whole grain tortilla.
• Add lettuce, tomato, and avocado for a filling meal on the go.

As Sliders

• Slice fresh rolls and fill them with buffalo tofu wings for mini sliders.
• Top with crunchy coleslaw for added texture and taste.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer an array of dipping sauces such as vegan ranch, blue cheese alternatives, or hot sauce.
• This allows guests to customize their experience based on their heat tolerance.

How to Perfect Buffalo Tofu Wings

To achieve the ultimate buffalo tofu wings, focus on these simple tips that will elevate your dish.

• Press the Tofu Well: Ensure you remove excess moisture from the tofu by pressing it for at least 30 minutes. This will help it achieve a crispy texture when baked.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They create a lighter, crunchier coating that enhances the overall texture.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer milder flavors, mix some plant-based milk into the buffalo sauce to tone down the heat without sacrificing flavor.
• Bake Twice for Extra Crispiness: After coating the wings in buffalo sauce, consider baking them again for an additional 15 minutes. This step ensures they stay crispy longer.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Tofu Wings

Buffalo tofu wings pair beautifully with various side dishes that complement their bold flavors. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch that balances the spiciness of the wings. Bake or fry until golden brown.
2. Veggie Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers makes for a healthy side that adds freshness to your meal.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is always a hit. Brush with vegan butter and sprinkle with salt for extra flavor.
4. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole paired with crunchy tortilla chips offers a delightful contrast to spicy buffalo tofu wings.
5. Potato Salad: A classic potato salad provides creaminess and comfort while balancing out the heat from the wings.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage and carrots adds crunch and acidity that perfectly complements the rich flavors of buffalo sauce.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with vegetables offers protein and fiber while being refreshing against spicy bites.
8. Baked Beans: Slightly sweet baked beans can provide depth and heartiness to your meal while enhancing your overall dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making buffalo tofu wings, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Bold preparation: Not pressing the tofu enough can lead to soggy wings. Ensure you press the tofu well to remove excess moisture before slicing.
• Bold batter consistency: A too-thick or too-thin batter can affect the coating. Aim for a smooth and consistent batter that adheres well to the tofu strips.
• Bold oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature may result in wings that are undercooked or overdone. Always preheat your oven to 425 degrees F for even cooking.
• Bold sauce application: Skipping the sauce toss can leave your wings bland. Make sure to coat each wing fully in buffalo sauce for maximum flavor.
• Bold serving time: Serving your wings cold can diminish their appeal. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for optimal taste and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store buffalo tofu wings in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Buffalo Tofu Wings

• Place cooled wings in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Buffalo tofu wings can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Buffalo Tofu Wings

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may result in softer wings.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about buffalo tofu wings, here are some common questions answered.

Can I make Buffalo Tofu Wings gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs as substitutes, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free buffalo tofu wings.

What is the best hot sauce for Buffalo Tofu Wings?

Frank’s RedHot is a popular choice, but feel free to experiment with your favorite hot sauces for different heat levels.

How do I make Buffalo Tofu Wings spicier?

To increase the heat, add cayenne pepper or more hot sauce directly into the batter or toss with extra sauce after baking.

Are Buffalo Tofu Wings suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well and can be prepared ahead of time, making them great for meal prep or parties.

How long does it take to make Buffalo Tofu Wings?

From start to finish, you can expect around 1 hour and 10 minutes including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo tofu wings are not only delicious but also versatile! They’re perfect as an appetizer or as part of a hearty meal. Feel free to customize your buffalo sauce by adding spices or using different dipping sauces. Try this recipe today; it’s sure to impress!