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    Home » Recipes » Main Dishes

    Crispy Vegan Tofu Tacos Recipe

    Apr 12, 2021 · Modified: Jul 8, 2022 by Rachel · This post may contain affiliate links.

    Jump to Recipe
    Over head shot of finished tofu tacos on a plate surrounded by additional toppings with text overlay "crispy vegan tofu tacos easy meal prep."

    This delicious and filling tofu tacos recipe is made with crispy tofu and topped with sliced red cabbage, green onions, salsa, lime juice, and cilantro. It's packed with protein, fiber and flavor! These tofu tacos also come together in 30 minutes and are perfect for taco night or meal prep!

    Vegan tofu tacos on a plate with ingredients in small bowls surrounding it
    Jump to:
    • Why this recipe works
    • Key ingredients
    • Instructions
    • Storage
    • Tips
    • More meal prep friendly recipes
    • 📖 Recipe

    Why this recipe works

    Tofu is one of those versatile ingredients that can take on the flavor of any dish. In this tofu taco recipe we use an easy marinade to give the tofu a more Mexican-inspired flavor.

    This recipe uses crispy tofu bites adapted from my Air Fryer Tofu recipe but you could also crumble tofu and bake it to be more like ground beef.

    Why we love these tofu tacos:

    -simple to make
    -meal prep friendly
    -easy to customize and add additional flavors or ingredients
    -perfect for Taco Tuesday
    -family friendly
    -ready in 30 minutes or less

    They also boasts over 14 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber per serving!

    Key ingredients

    Tofu taco ingredients laid out

    Extra firm tofu—holds its shape and absorbs flavors well, making it a great choice for this tofu taco recipe!

    RELATED: Learn about the different types of tofu and the best ways to use them.

    For the marinade:
    low-sodium soy sauce
    maple syrup—or agave syrup
    onion powder
    garlic powder
    chili powder—optional, more if you prefer spicy tofu
    ground cumin

    For the taco and fillings:
    corn tortillas or your preferred taco shells
    red cabbage
    cilantro
    green onions
    prepared salsa
    lime juice

    Instructions

    The following shows the step-by-step process for these vegan tofu tacos. Exact times and temperatures are available in the printable recipe card below.

    Step 1: Start by draining the tofu and press out excess water. You can do this by wrapping the block of tofu in a clean lint-free cloth or paper towels and setting a plate or cutting board on top with weighted objects or by using a tofu press. Allow the tofu to press for at least 10 minutes.

    Step 2: Mix together the marinade ingredients in a small bowl. When the tofu is ready, cut into cubes and place in a shallow dish. Add the marinade to the dish and allow the tofu cubes to marinate for 10-15 minutes.

    Cubed tofu marinating in a shallow dish

    Step 3: Preheat oven or air fryer to 400F degrees. If using an air fryer, evenly spread out the tofu and cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway. If using an oven, place tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden, flipping halfway.

    Crispy tofu cubes in an air fryer basket.

    Step 4: Meanwhile, prep the veggies. Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage, slice in half, then slice in half again, then slice into thin strips. For the cilantro, wash then chop the leaves (and stems if you like).

    Step 5: Assemble your tofu tacos. Warm up your corn tortillas on a skillet or in a microwave, then top with the crispy tofu taco meat, sliced red cabbage, salsa, chopped cilantro and a drizzle of lime juice.

    RELATED: see which are the best vegan tortillas or make your own!

    Up close of assembled tofu tacos on a plate

    More favorite toppings:
    Shredded lettuce
    Red onion
    Diced tomatoes
    Avocado slices
    Shredded vegan cheese
    Vegan sour cream
    Hot sauce

    Storage

    Store everything separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Tofu will last up to 4 days. For maximum crispiness, reheat in an air fryer or oven.

    Over head shot of finished tofu tacos on a plate surrounded by additional toppings

    Tips

    To make this extra hearty, add black beans. Use the leftover marinade and heat them up with it in a non-stick pan or simply sprinkle with a taco seasoning packet and add to the tacos.

    Want tofu crumbles instead of cubes? Crumble the tofu into a large bowl and add the marinade, toss to combine. Then bake until golden and crispy.

    More meal prep friendly recipes

    If you enjoyed these easy tofu tacos you'll love these other easy recipes:

    Chili Sin Carne

    Vegan Ceviche with Hearts of Palm

    Mason Jar Salads

    Vegan Enfrijjoladas

    Vegan Snickers Overnight Oats

    For more plant-based eats check out the Health My Lifestyle Meal Planner. It makes plant-based eating effortless with easy recipes and simple customizable meal plans designed for busy people! Try for free!

    📖 Recipe

    Vegan tofu tacos on a plate with ingredients in small bowls surrounding it

    Crispy Vegan Tofu Tacos

    This delicious and filling tofu tacos recipe is made with crispy tofu and topped with sliced red cabbage, green onions, salsa, lime juice, and cilantro. It's packed with protein, fiber and flavor! These tofu tacos also come together in 30 minutes and are perfect for taco night or meal prep!
    5 from 5 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    course: Main Course
    cuisine: Mexican
    servings: 4
    prep time: 20 mins
    cook time: 10 mins
    total time: 30 mins
    Author: Rachel

    Ingredients

    • 16 oz extra firm tofu, or firm tofu

    For the marinade:

    • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce, *
    • ½ tablespoon maple syrup, or agave syrup
    • ½ teaspoon onion powder
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1 teaspoon chili powder, optional, more if you like it spicier

    For the taco:

    • ¼ red cabbage
    • ½ bunch cilantro
    • 1 lime, juiced
    • 2 stalks green onions, sliced
    • 1 cup prepared salsa, I used a mango salsa
    • 8-10 corn tortillas

    Instructions

    • Drain the tofu and press out excess water by wrapping in a clean lint-free cloth or paper towel and setting a plate or cutting board on top with weighted objects. Allow the tofu to press for at least 10 minutes.
      16 oz extra firm tofu
    • Mix together the marinade ingredients in a small bowl. When the tofu is ready, cut into cubes and place in a shallow dish. Add the marinade to the dish and allow the tofu to marinate for 10-15 minutes.
      ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce, ½ tablespoon maple syrup, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder
    • Preheat oven or air fryer to 400°F (205°C). If using an air fryer, evenly spread out the tofu in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway. If using an oven, place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden, flipping halfway.
    • Meanwhile, prep the veggies. Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage, slice in half, then slice in half again, then slice into thin strips. For the cilantro, wash then chop the leaves (and stems if you like). Wash and thinly slice the green part of the green onion.
      ¼ red cabbage, ½ bunch cilantro, 2 stalks green onions
    • Assemble the tacos. Warm up your corn tortillas on a skillet or in a microwave, then top with crispy tofu pieces, sliced red cabbage, salsa, chopped cilantro, green onion, and a drizzle of lime juice.
      1 lime, 1 cup prepared salsa, 8-10 corn tortillas

    Notes

    *In order to be gluten-free, use liquid aminos instead.
    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days. To reheat, place tofu in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp up.
    Additional topping ideas:
    • Shredded lettuce
    • Red onion
    • Diced tomatoes
    • Avocado slices
    • Shredded vegan cheese
    • Vegan sour cream
    • Hot sauce

    Nutrition Per Serving

    Sodium: 1110mg Calcium: 146mg Vitamin C: 36mg Vitamin A: 1138IU Sugar: 8g Fiber: 7g Potassium: 679mg Calories: 239kcal Saturated Fat: 1g Fat: 4g Protein: 14g Carbohydrates: 40g Iron: 4mg
    Want to eat healthier but don't know where to start?Get a free customizable meal plan and stop the struggle!

    This recipe was updated July 2022 with additional tips and information.

    Pin this for later:

    Up close of easy crispy vegan tofu tacos topped with salsa, cilantro, green onions and red cabbage. Text on image: crispy vegan tofu tacos easy meal prep
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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Jessica Formicola

      April 13, 2021 at 1:36 pm

      5 stars
      I have never been a big fan of tofu until I tried these tacos- full of flavor and definitely a winner in my book!

      Reply
      • Health My Lifestyle

        April 14, 2021 at 10:31 am

        Yay I'm so glad you gave these a try and enjoyed it 🙂

        Reply
    2. Sue

      April 13, 2021 at 1:28 pm

      5 stars
      Getting tofu crispy is the key - thanks for all the tips!

      Reply
      • Health My Lifestyle

        April 14, 2021 at 10:30 am

        My pleasure! 🙂

        Reply
    3. rebecca

      April 13, 2021 at 12:24 pm

      5 stars
      these look delicious! I love how crispy this tofu is

      Reply
      • Health My Lifestyle

        April 14, 2021 at 10:30 am

        Thank you! I can't get enough of that crispy tofu as well 🙂

        Reply
    4. Michelle

      April 13, 2021 at 11:47 am

      5 stars
      I loved this recipe! It was so delicious! I've always got tofu in my fridge and I usually make my usual stewed tofu. I'm glad I stumbled upon your recipe!

      Reply
      • Health My Lifestyle

        April 14, 2021 at 10:29 am

        Thanks, Michelle! I'm so happy to hear you enjoyed it 🙂

        Reply
    5. Sara Welch

      April 13, 2021 at 11:33 am

      5 stars
      This was such an unique and unexpected recipe! So delicious and crispy; easily, a new favorite in my home!

      Reply
      • Health My Lifestyle

        April 14, 2021 at 10:28 am

        I'm so glad to hear that Sara!

        Reply

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