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Crispy Tofu Tacos Recipe

4.7 from 101 reviews

These Crispy Tofu Tacos are a flavorful and satisfying plant-based meal featuring oven-roasted tofu seasoned with smoky spices and served with a creamy avocado sauce. The tofu is grated and roasted until crispy, then tossed with a tomato paste glaze for extra depth. Served on warm tortillas with fresh toppings like red onion, radishes, and cilantro, these tacos are perfect for a comforting vegan dinner packed with texture and bold flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu and Seasonings

  • 2 (14- to 16-ounce) blocks firm tofu
  • 1/4 cup plus 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste (approx. 1 teaspoon each for seasoning)
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste

Avocado Cream Sauce

  • 2 ripe avocados
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (vegan mayo if desired)
  • 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lime zest
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice
  • Salt, to taste

Other

  • 8 flour or 10 corn tortillas, warmed
  • Minced red onion, for serving
  • Thinly sliced radishes, for serving
  • Chopped cilantro, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to prepare for roasting the tofu, which will give it a crispy texture.
  2. Prepare the tofu. Drain the tofu and squeeze out any excess moisture; it’s normal if the tofu breaks into chunks. Coarsely grate the tofu onto two large foil-lined baking sheets, ensuring it crumbles unevenly for texture. Drizzle each pan with 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon soy sauce.
  3. Season the tofu. In a small bowl, combine ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle half of this seasoning mix over each pan of tofu and toss well to coat. Spread the tofu in an even layer on the sheets.
  4. Roast the tofu. Place the baking sheets in the oven and roast for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring halfway through and rotating pans so tofu crisps evenly and darkens.
  5. Add tomato paste glaze. Mix the tomato paste with the remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the tofu, toss to coat, and spread back into an even layer.
  6. Roast again. Return the tofu to the oven and roast for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until it crackles audibly and develops a slight crunch.
  7. Prepare the avocado cream. While the tofu roasts, blend the avocados, mayonnaise, lime zest, and lime juice in a food processor or blender until smooth and creamy. Season generously with salt to taste.
  8. Assemble the tacos. Spread a generous swipe of avocado cream on each warmed tortilla. Top with the crispy tofu mixture, then garnish with minced red onion, thinly sliced radishes, and chopped cilantro.
  9. Serve immediately. Enjoy the crispy tofu tacos while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon; reduce for milder heat.
  • Use either flour or corn tortillas based on preference or dietary needs.
  • Ensure the tofu is well-drained before grating to achieve maximum crispiness.
  • Vegan mayonnaise can be used to keep the recipe fully plant-based.
  • These tacos are best served fresh but leftover tofu can be refrigerated up to 3 days and gently reheated.

Keywords: crispy tofu tacos, vegan tacos, baked tofu recipe, avocado cream, plant-based taco, tofu main dish, Mexican-inspired vegan recipe