Vegan Buffalo Wings
Recipe Overview
Overview
These Vegan Buffalo Wings are a fantastic twist on a classic game day favorite. Made with crispy tofu, they capture the essence of traditional buffalo wings without any meat. The process begins with pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving that desired crispy texture. Once pressed, the tofu is cut into bite-sized pieces and coated in a flavorful mixture of cornstarch and breadcrumbs, ensuring a satisfying crunch when cooked.
The wings are then air-fried to perfection, resulting in a golden-brown exterior that is both crispy and meaty. While the tofu wings are cooking, a simple buffalo sauce is prepared using Frank’s Red Hot, vegan butter, and a touch of sugar, creating a perfect balance of heat and flavor. The addition of a creamy ranch dipping sauce made from silken tofu, garlic, and fresh herbs elevates the dish, providing a cooling contrast to the spicy wings.
This recipe is not only easy to follow but also adaptable for various dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party or just craving a delicious snack, these Vegan Buffalo Wings are sure to be a hit. They are a testament to how satisfying plant-based cooking can be, proving that you don’t need meat to enjoy bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
In one bowl, add plain unsweetened dairy-free milk. In another bowl, combine Panko and regular breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning. In a third bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Tip: Pressing tofu for about an hour helps remove excess liquid and results in crispier tofu.
Remove tofu from the package, press it between paper towels with a heavy object for about an hour.
Cut the pressed tofu into 1/3 inch slices.
Tip: Use one hand for wet ingredients and another for dry to prevent sogginess.
Dip tofu in the liquid with your left hand, then coat in cornstarch with your dry hand. Return to the liquid and coat again before transferring to the breadcrumb mixture.
Tip: Press the breadcrumbs into the tofu to ensure they stick well.
Transfer the coated tofu onto a baking sheet.
Grease the bottom of the air fryer with avocado oil spray.
Place tofu wings in the air fryer basket, ensuring at least half an inch of space between them.
Grease the tops of the tofu wings with more avocado oil spray.
Cook the tofu wings at 350° for 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
In a food processor, blend silk tofu, garlic, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, fresh parsley, dill, and salt until smooth.
Tip: Using silk tofu makes the creamiest ranch dressing.
In a saucepan, combine one cup of Frank's Red Hot, a teaspoon of sugar, and three tablespoons of vegan butter. Let simmer.
Tip: Let the buffalo sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to enhance the flavor.
Transfer cooked tofu to a bowl and cover with buffalo sauce, tossing to coat thoroughly.
Tip: Use tongs to thoroughly coat the tofu in buffalo sauce for even coverage.
Serve the tofu wings hot with the creamy vegan ranch dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Soy
→ Substitution: Chickpea Tofu
Ingredient: Gluten
→ Substitution: Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Pressing tofu helps remove excess moisture, resulting in a crispier texture.
- •Using a combination of Panko and regular breadcrumbs enhances the crunchiness of the wings.
- •Buffalo sauce can be easily made by simmering hot sauce with vegan butter and sugar.
- •Silken tofu can be used to create a creamy vegan ranch dressing.
