Vegan Bang Bang Tofu Recipe

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing, crispy, and flavor-packed dish that’ll win over vegans and non-vegans alike, this Vegan Bang Bang Tofu Recipe is sure to hit the spot. Imagine golden, perfectly seasoned tofu cubes draped in a creamy, tangy, and spicy bang bang sauce—each bite delivering a burst of bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. Whether you serve it as a showstopping appetizer or as the main event over a bed of rice or stuffed into lettuce cups, this is one recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Vegan Bang Bang Tofu Recipe has a part to play, whether it’s creating the ultimate crispy coating, achieving that luscious sauce, or providing a splash of color and freshness. Here’s what you’ll need to make magic happen in your kitchen:

• Extra-firm tofu (14 ounces): Pressed and cubed, this forms the hearty base with serious substance and the perfect chew.
• Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Your secret weapon for a crispy outer shell, making every cube irresistible.
• Olive oil or avocado oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps crisp up the tofu as it bakes or air fries.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances every flavor note and ensures the tofu is seasoned throughout.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): A subtle kick that works perfectly with the other spices.
• Vegan mayonnaise (½ cup): The creamy core of your bang bang sauce—you won’t believe how luscious it tastes!
• Sweet chili sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds vibrant, sweet heat for that signature bang bang tang.
• Sriracha (1 tablespoon or to taste): Brings all the spicy warmth—adjust to suit your fiery preferences.
• Maple syrup or agave (1 tablespoon): Just a touch adds balance and a hint of natural sweetness to the sauce.
• Rice vinegar (1 teaspoon): Offers a pop of acidity, cutting through the richness for a refreshing finish.
• Green onions (2, sliced): For a fresh crunch and a punch of color as a final flourish.
• Sesame seeds (optional): A sprinkle boosts both presentation and subtle nutty flavor.

How to Make Vegan Bang Bang Tofu Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Tofu

Start by pressing your tofu to remove as much water as possible—this is the key to a crispy texture. Once pressed, cut the block into bite-sized cubes. You want them around one-inch pieces for even cooking and an ideal bite.

Step 2: Coat the Tofu

In a bowl, gently toss those tofu cubes with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until every side gets that light, even dusting. This step is where the magic begins, setting the stage for perfect crispiness.

Step 3: Cook Until Crispy

Spread your coated tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet and drizzle with oil—or pop it in your air fryer basket if you’re going that route. Bake at 400°F for 25 to 30 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping the cubes halfway through. Watch as they turn golden and crisp!

Step 4: Whisk the Bang Bang Sauce

While the tofu cooks, whip up your signature sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, maple syrup, and rice vinegar. You’ll want a smooth, creamy, and beautifully pink sauce that begs to be tasted (and you absolutely should taste it—adjust the heat or sweetness to your liking!).

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Once that tofu is hot and crispy, transfer it to a bowl and pour the bang bang sauce over the top. Toss quickly but gently, ensuring every piece gets a generous coating. Now it’s ready for the finishing touches and to be served right away for that all-important crunch!

How to Serve Vegan Bang Bang Tofu Recipe

Garnishes

The final step is all about those extra touches! Sprinkle your Vegan Bang Bang Tofu Recipe with sliced green onions for a fresh pop, and scatter sesame seeds for just a hint of nutty flavor and a gorgeous look. If you’re feeling fancy, a squeeze of lime works wonders here too.

Side Dishes

This dish absolutely shines alongside fluffy jasmine rice, noodles, or tucked into lettuce cups for a fun appetizer. Steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, or even a cool cucumber salad can round out the meal beautifully, letting that bang bang sauce steal the show.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not get playful? Try stacking the tofu cubes into lettuce wraps, pile them on a grain bowl with shredded cabbage and avocado, or turn them into showstopping sliders for a party spread. However you serve it, the Vegan Bang Bang Tofu Recipe always feels like something a little special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Vegan Bang Bang Tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The tofu may lose some of its crunch, but it will still taste absolutely delicious soaked in all that sauce.

Freezing

While you can freeze the cooked tofu (preferably without the sauce), it’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture. If you do freeze, thaw and reheat before adding the sauce to revive that crispiness as much as possible.

Reheating

To bring your Vegan Bang Bang Tofu Recipe back to life, bake leftovers in a hot oven or toss them in the air fryer for a few minutes until heated through. This helps restore the crispy edges before enjoying with more sauce—and maybe another sprinkle of green onion for good measure!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just double-check that your sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and vegan mayonnaise are certified gluten-free, and you’re good to go with the Vegan Bang Bang Tofu Recipe.

What’s the best way to press tofu?

The easiest way is to wrap your tofu in a clean kitchen towel and set something heavy on top (like a cast-iron skillet or a stack of cookbooks) for 15–20 minutes. Or, use a tofu press if you have one for maximum convenience.

Can I use a different sauce or add-ins?

Of course! The bang bang sauce is classic, but you can try buffalo, teriyaki, or peanut sauces for a twist. Feel free to add steamed veggies, fresh herbs, or toasted nuts to customize your Vegan Bang Bang Tofu Recipe even more.

Do I have to use an air fryer?

Not at all. The oven method works just as beautifully, and if you want super-speedy results, the air fryer delivers phenomenal crispiness in less time. Both options guarantee golden tofu cubes.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s wonderfully customizable! If you love heat, add more sriracha. For a milder version, start with half the sriracha or skip it altogether. The base remains deliciously creamy and tangy either way.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Bang Bang Tofu Recipe is everything a weeknight (or weekend!) dish should be: easy, vibrant, and simply packed with flavor. I hope you’ll give it a try and share it with friends—because recipes this good are meant to be enjoyed together!

Print