Sliders with Crispy Tofu

Name: Sliders with Crispy Tofu
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 block firm tofu, pressed and sliced; 4 slider buns; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1 tomato, sliced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; Vegetable oil for frying; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ginger powder; 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon sriracha; 1 teaspoon lime juice

Highlighted under: Easy Ideas

I love creating plant-based dishes that are not only delicious but also satisfying. These sliders with crispy tofu have become a favorite in our home because they're packed with flavor and texture. The crispy tofu perfectly contrasts with the soft slider buns, and the toppings add extra layers of taste. It’s a fun recipe to make when hosting friends or just treating myself to something special. I promise you won’t miss the meat with these flavorful sliders!

Created by

Una Merrick

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:25:35.629Z

Experimenting with tofu has led me to some fantastic discoveries, and sliders are the perfect vehicle to showcase its versatility. The key to getting that delightful crispy texture is to press the tofu before frying it, so it releases excess moisture. I also found that marinating it for a brief period boosts the flavor and makes the sliders even more delicious.

When I first served these sliders at a family gathering, they quickly vanished! The combination of fresh veggies and a tangy sauce really complements the tofu, creating a well-rounded meal. I always recommend serving them with a side of sweet potato fries for the ultimate treat.

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Crispy tofu that adds a delightful crunch
Versatile toppings for a personalized flavor
Perfect for a casual gathering or meal prep

      

Getting the Perfect Tofu Texture

The key to crispy tofu lies in pressing it effectively. Start with firm tofu to achieve the best results. Pressing removes excess moisture, allowing the marinade to penetrate better and the tofu to crisp up nicely when fried. Use a tofu press or wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel, placing something heavy on top, such as a cast-iron skillet. Press for at least 30 minutes for optimal texture.

When slicing the tofu, aim for approximately 1/2-inch thick pieces to ensure even cooking. Thinner slices might become too crunchy and dry, while thicker ones may remain soggy in the middle. After marinating, resist the urge to overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches as necessary to maintain consistent heat and achieve an even golden-brown color on each slice.

Mastering the Marinade and Sauce

The marinade not only enhances the tofu's flavor but also adds depth to your sliders. Soy sauce provides a salty, umami base, while maple syrup introduces a subtle sweetness that balances the saltiness. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an added kick. Letting the tofu marinate for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to be absorbed effectively.

The sauce complements the crispy tofu beautifully, with vegan mayonnaise offering creaminess and sriracha bringing heat. Adjust the sriracha to your spice preference; for a milder version, reduce the amount or substitute it with a creamy avocado spread. Lime juice brightens the sauce and adds acidity, cutting through the richness of the fried tofu and enhancing the overall flavor profile of the sliders.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

1 block firm tofu, pressed and sliced
4 slider buns
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 tomato, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Marinade

3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger powder

For the Sauce

1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 teaspoon lime juice

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Tofu

In a bowl, mix together all marinade ingredients. Add the sliced tofu and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Fry the Tofu

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated tofu slices. Fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine vegan mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice. Stir until well mixed.

Assemble the Sliders

Spread the sauce on the buns. Layer shredded lettuce, fried tofu, tomato, and red onion on each bun. Top with the other half of the bun.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding pickles or avocado slices to your sliders. You can also enhance the marinades with your favorite spices.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These sliders can be a great meal-prep option. To save time, marinate the tofu a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just fry it up as directed. Leftover fried tofu can also be stored in an airtight container and kept refrigerated for up to three days—just reheat in a skillet to regain that crispy texture.

The sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for about a week. Make a double batch and use it as a dressing for salads or as a dipping sauce for vegetables. This versatility makes it easy to integrate into other meals, ensuring you get the most out of your ingredients.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While the sliders are delicious as written, feel free to get creative with toppings. Sliced cucumbers, pickled jalapeños, or a dollop of guacamole can enhance flavor and add additional textures. For a gourmet option, consider adding a slice of vegan cheese that melts delicately over the warm tofu. Pair the sliders with sweet potato fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

If you're looking to replicate the sliders for larger gatherings, this recipe can be easily scaled. For every block of tofu, add an additional few slider buns and adjust the marinade and sauce quantities accordingly. Alternatively, serve the crispy tofu in lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option that also adds a refreshing crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure to use gluten-free tofu and gluten-free buns.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover tofu and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I bake the tofu instead of frying?

Absolutely! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the marinated tofu on a lined baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

→ What can I use instead of tofu?

You can substitute the tofu with chickpeas or black bean patties for a different flavor profile.