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In the realm of plant-based cuisine, the quest for dishes that are both nutritious and satisfyingly crispy can often feel like a challenging endeavor. Many people associate tofu with a soft and sometimes bland texture, but the Crunchy Pita Crusted Tofu Bites transform this humble ingredient into a delightful, crunchy snack or meal addition that can win over even the most ardent meat lovers. This recipe is not only packed with protein but also loaded with flavor, making it a versatile option for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a gathering, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or simply craving something delicious, these tofu bites are sure to impress.

Crunchy Pita Crusted Tofu Bites

Discover the ultimate snack with Crunchy Pita Crusted Tofu Bites! This plant-based recipe transforms ordinary tofu into a crispy delight, perfect for satisfying cravings or impressing guests. Packed with protein and flavor, these bites feature a crunchy whole wheat pita crust that elevates every bite. Easy to make and customizable with delicious dipping sauces, they can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a meal addition. Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a tasty, healthy treat!

Ingredients
  

14 oz (400g) firm tofu, pressed and drained

1 cup whole wheat pita bread, crumbled (approximately 2-3 pitas)

2 tablespoons nutritional yeast

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for added depth)

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour if desired)

1/2 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk of your choice)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Optional: your favorite dipping sauce (such as tahini or spicy aioli)

Instructions
 

Prep the Tofu: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes, making sure they are uniform in size for even cooking. Set the cubes aside on a plate.

    Prepare the Pita Crust: In a food processor, combine the crumbled pita bread, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Pulse the mixture until it resembles coarse bread crumbs. Transfer this mixture to a shallow bowl for easy access.

      Set Up the Battering Station: Prepare a three-station battering area:

        - In the first bowl, add the flour.

          - In the second bowl, pour in the almond milk.

            - In the third bowl, place the pita crumb mixture.

              Coat the Tofu: Take each tofu cube and first dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, immerse it in the almond milk to ensure moisture, then transfer it to the pita crumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs evenly. Repeat this process for all tofu cubes.

                Bake the Tofu: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the coated tofu cubes in a single layer, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking. Drizzle the cubes with extra virgin olive oil to enhance crunchiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the cubes halfway through the baking time, until they are golden brown and crispy.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the tofu bites from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle the bites with finely chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. Serve warm alongside your choice of dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 4