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Vegan Tofu Meatballs with Dipping Sauce Recipe

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4.1 from 2 reviews

These vegan and gluten-free tofu balls are a healthy and delicious snack or appetizer, made with extra firm tofu, grated carrot, spring onion, and a blend of oats and flour for binding. Crispy and golden on the outside, tender on the inside, they are air-fried for a light texture and can be served with your favorite dipping sauce. Perfect as a party appetizer or a quick protein-packed snack.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 20 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb extra firm tofu, pressed and drained
  • 1 small carrot, peeled and grated
  • 2 spring onions or scallions, chopped
  • 1 small red bell pepper, seeded and diced (optional)
  • 1/2-3/4 tsp salt, to taste
  • 2 tsp soy sauce (or more salt, to taste)
  • Ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup quick cook oatmeal, crushed (or panko/Japanese bread crumbs)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or oat, almond, spelt, gluten-free mix, etc.)
  • Oil for spraying or brushing

Dipping Sauce

  • Dipping sauce of your choice

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu: Wrap the tofu in a clean towel and place a heavy weighted surface, like a chopping board, on top to drain excess liquid. This helps the tofu hold together better when cooking.
  2. Prepare the mixture: Mash the pressed tofu in a mixing bowl. Add the grated carrot, chopped spring onions, diced red bell pepper (if using), salt, soy sauce, and ground black pepper. Mix well until combined.
  3. Add binding agents: Stir in the crushed quick cook oatmeal and flour to the tofu mixture. Mix thoroughly. Test the mixture by scooping and rolling into a ball; it should hold together well without crumbling. Add 1-2 tablespoons more flour if it is too wet.
  4. Shape the tofu balls: Form the mixture into small balls or your preferred shape. Place them on a tray.
  5. Prepare for air frying: Arrange the tofu balls in your air fryer basket in a single layer. Brush or spray them lightly with oil to promote browning and crispiness.
  6. Air fry: Cook the tofu balls at 180°C (375°F) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through if needed, until golden brown. Air fryer times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
  7. Serve: Remove the tofu balls from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce for maximum enjoyment.
  8. Alternative cooking methods: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake (at 180°C for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway), pan fry (shape into patties and cook until crisp on both sides), or deep fry (heat oil well before frying for even golden browning).
  9. Storage: Cooked tofu balls or patties can be refrigerated for 1-2 weeks. Reheat by air-frying or pan-frying to restore crispness.

Notes

  • Pressing tofu well is crucial for best texture.
  • You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free or nut flours as preferred.
  • If mixture is too wet, add extra flour to help it bind.
  • Use oil spray or brush lightly to keep tofu balls crispy and avoid excess oil.
  • Cooking times may vary based on air fryer model; monitor closely.
  • Shapes can be balls or small patties based on cooking method and preference.
  • These tofu balls are suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets.
  • Serve with sweet chili, soy-based, or other dipping sauces for added flavor.
  • To store, refrigerate cooked tofu balls in an airtight container up to 1-2 weeks.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Vegan
  • Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free

Find it online: https://yourdailycook.com/vegan-tofu-meatballs-with-dipping-sauce-recipe/