Name: Crispy Baked Honey Mustard Tofu Tenders You’ll Crave
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 block Extra Firm Tofu (Press well to remove moisture.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour.); 1/3 cup Cornstarch; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Paprika Powder (Optional for flavor.); 1 cup Water (Adjust for desired consistency.); 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Use gluten-free for a gluten-free dish.); 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil (For brushing or spraying.); 2 tablespoons Agave or Maple Syrup (Choose based on preference.); 2 tablespoons Yellow or Dijon Mustard (Pick your favorite type.); 1 pinch Salt (Season to taste.); 1 pinch Pepper (Season to taste.)

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As I mixed the sweet and tangy sauce, the scent of mustard wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to summer barbecues long ago. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Crispy Vegan Baked ‘Honey’ Mustard Tofu Tenders. These tenders are not only a guilt-free indulgence at around 111 calories each, but they also bring a satisfying crunch that will please everyone at the table, whether they’re vegan or not. Made from simple pantry staples, this dish is perfect for a quick snack or a wholesome meal. Plus, with easy tips for gluten-free adjustments, everyone can join in on the fun! So, are you ready to turn your kitchen into a delicious aroma-filled haven? Let’s get cooking!

Why are these tofu tenders irresistible?

Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs ensure each bite is delightfully crunchy.
Flavor Explosion: Sweet agave syrup meets tangy mustard, creating a mouthwatering sauce.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main meal—serve with sides like creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries.
Quick Preparation: Whip these up in just over 30 minutes!
Guilt-Free Indulgence: At only 111 calories per tender, you can enjoy without the worry.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even non-vegans will love these tenders’ satisfying crunch and bold flavor!

Crispy Vegan Baked ‘Honey’ Mustard Tofu Tenders Ingredients

For the Tofu
• Extra Firm Tofu – This is your main protein source; press well to remove moisture for optimal crispiness.

For the Batter
• All-Purpose Flour – Helps create a crispy batter; substitute with gluten-free flour if necessary.
• Cornstarch – Essential for adding extra crunch to the coating; no substitutions needed.
• Baking Powder – Lightens the batter, ensuring airy tenders when baked.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor, a must-have for savory recipes.
• Paprika Powder (Optional) – Adds a delightful smoky flavor depth.
• Water – Adjust until you reach the ideal batter consistency, ensuring it clings to the tofu.

For the Coating
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Provides that signature crunchy coating; opt for gluten-free panko for a gluten-free dish.
• Neutral Oil – For brushing or spraying, aiding in moisture retention during baking.

For the ‘Honey’ Mustard Sauce
• Agave or Maple Syrup – Sweetener for the sauce; choose based on your preference.
• Yellow or Dijon Mustard – Offers the essential tang; pick your favorite type.
• Salt and Pepper – Season to taste, key for balancing the flavors in this crispy vegan baked ‘honey’ mustard tofu tenders recipe!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Vegan Baked ‘Honey’ Mustard Tofu Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of neutral oil, 2 tablespoons of agave or maple syrup, and 2 tablespoons of yellow or Dijon mustard. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for taste, mixing until smooth. This ‘honey’ mustard sauce will be the perfect companion for your crispy baked tofu tenders, setting the stage for delicious flavors ahead.

Step 2: Prepare Tofu
Drain the extra firm tofu and press it between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel for about 10 minutes to eliminate excess moisture. After pressing, slice the tofu into even 1-inch strips to ensure uniform cooking. These tofu strips will serve as the base for your tasty tenders, so precision is key in this step.

Step 3: Make the Batter
In a bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt, along with optional paprika for flavor. Gradually whisk in about 1 cup of water until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency that will cling nicely to the tofu. This batter forms the crispy layer that will encase each tender and create a delightful crunch.

Step 4: Coat Tofu
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you coat the tofu strips. Dip each strip into the batter, ensuring an even coating, then lift it out and let the excess batter drip off. Roll each battered strip in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. This step is crucial to achieving that irresistible crunch in your crispy baked ‘honey’ mustard tofu tenders.

Step 5: Bake
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place your coated tofu strips evenly spaced apart. Bake them in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through. You’ll want them to turn golden brown and crispy, signaling they are perfectly baked and ready for that finishing touch.

Step 6: Final Coat
Once the tofu tenders are beautifully crisp, remove them from the oven. Brush or spoon your prepared ‘honey’ mustard sauce over the hot tenders, ensuring they are well-coated. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-8 minutes, allowing the sauce to set and infuse its sweet and tangy flavor into each tender perfectly.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Vegan Baked ‘Honey’ Mustard Tofu Tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter and coat the tofu up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring you save precious time during busy weeknights. Simply slice and press the tofu, then dip each piece into the batter and roll in panko breadcrumbs before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, keep the batter and tofu separate until ready to bake. When you’re ready to enjoy your tenders, just preheat the oven, bake for 30-35 minutes, and finish with your ‘honey’ mustard sauce for a deliciously easy meal!

Storage Tips for Crispy Vegan Baked ‘Honey’ Mustard Tofu Tenders

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for optimal crispiness at 350°F (175°C).

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To bring back the crunchiness, reheat frozen or refrigerated crispy vegan baked ‘honey’ mustard tofu tenders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the battered tofu strips up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake.

Crispy Baked Honey Mustard Tofu Tenders Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize these tenders to match your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives for a fully gluten-free dish that everyone can enjoy. The crispy texture will still shine through!
Mustard Variety: Experiment with spicy brown or honey mustard for a unique flavor twist. Each mustard variety brings its own special kick, elevating your tenders to new heights.
Herb Infusion: Add dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the batter for extra flavor. These herbs can provide a delightful aromatic profile, making each bite even more irresistible.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the batter for a heated twist. This fiery touch will surely take your tenders from tasty to tantalizing!
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor that’s perfect with the sweetness of the ‘honey’ mustard.
Crunchy Coating: For an extra crispy exterior, try double coating the tofu strips—dip in the batter, apply panko, and repeat for maximum crunch.
Sweetener Swap: Replace agave syrup with maple syrup for a richer sweetness. Maple adds a lovely depth, creating a beautifully balanced sauce.
Serve with a Twist: Instead of traditional sides, pair your tenders with zesty Mexican slaw for a vibrant contrast that brightens the plate.

What to Serve with Crispy Vegan Baked ‘Honey’ Mustard Tofu Tenders

Embrace the full experience of this heartwarming dish by pairing it with delightful side options that balance flavor and texture.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes perfectly complements the crispy tenders, making every bite a comforting delight.
Garden Salad: A refreshing garden salad adds a burst of freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the tofu tenders beautifully. Toss in a zesty vinaigrette for an extra flavor kick.
Sweet Potato Fries: Enjoy a delightful contrast with these sweet, crispy fries that echo the tenders’ crunch, creating a satisfying and indulgent harmony on your plate.
Herbed Quinoa: Nutty and wholesome, herbed quinoa offers a nutritious twist that brings together the flavors of the tenders with its subtle earthiness.
Mango Salsa: Bright and zesty, mango salsa adds a refreshing sweetness that enhances the sweet-tangy notes of the ‘honey’ mustard coating, creating a vibrant and colorful dish.
Vegan Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds refreshing tanginess while providing a creamy texture that complements the crunch of the tenders, making every bite a delightful experience.
Lemonade: Refreshing homemade lemonade can cleanse the palate and enhance the overall meal experience with its bright citrus flavors.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with this rich, creamy dessert that offers a satisfying finish to the savory bites enjoyed earlier.

Expert Tips for Crispy Baked ‘Honey’ Mustard Tofu Tenders

Press Tofu Well: Ensuring your tofu is pressed will make the texture crispier and help the batter stick properly for cooking.
Perfect Batter Consistency: Aim for a smooth coating by adjusting water as necessary—too thick won’t cling, and too runny won’t provide ample coverage.
Double Coating: For extra crunch, you can dip the battered tofu strips back into the batter and then again into the panko breadcrumbs before baking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Space the tenders out on your baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate, ensuring they turn crisp all over.
Sauce After Baking: Always add the ‘honey’ mustard sauce after baking for the prettiest glaze and optimal flavor; it will help retain the crunch of your tenders!

Crispy Vegan Baked ‘Honey’ Mustard Tofu Tenders Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right tofu for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, you should always choose extra firm tofu. Look for a block that feels dense and has minimal liquid in the packaging. It’s key to press the tofu well before cooking to ensure optimal moisture removal, resulting in crispier tenders.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store any leftover crispy vegan baked ‘honey’ mustard tofu tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them! Just spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll last up to 3 months, making them perfect for meal prep!

Can I freeze these tofu tenders? How?
Very! To freeze, first let your baked tenders cool completely, then line them on a baking sheet without touching each other. Freeze them for a couple of hours until they’re firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. This way, they won’t stick together, and you can easily take out what you need later. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until crispy.

What if my batter is too thick or too runny?
No problem! If your batter is too thick, simply add a little more water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a smooth, clinging consistency. Conversely, if it’s too runny, sprinkle in a bit more flour or cornstarch until it thickens up. A good batter should be able to coat the tofu without dripping excessively.

Are these tenders suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! To make these crispy vegan baked ‘honey’ mustard tofu tenders gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. Ensure you check the labels on any sauces you’re using as well to avoid hidden gluten.

Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the battered tofu strips and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes for an easy, stress-free cooking experience when you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven for a quick bake!