1. Prepare the Tofu: Cut the tofu into large cubes (2-3 inches long). Cutting the tofu into uniform cubes ensures even cooking. The size of the cubes is up to your preference, but larger cubes tend to hold their shape better. Use a sharp knife to cut the tofu cleanly. Beginner Note: Cut the tofu on a cutting board that is stable to prevent accidents.
2. Coat with Cornstarch: Place the tofu cubes in a large resealable plastic bag with cornstarch and garlic powder. Shake gently until combined. (Alternatively, you can mix in a large bowl). Ensure the tofu cubes are evenly coated with the cornstarch mixture. This helps create a crispy crust. Shake the bag gently to avoid breaking the tofu. Close the bag securely to prevent cornstarch from spilling. Beginner Note: If using a bowl, toss the tofu cubes gently with the cornstarch mixture.
3. Dip in Soy Milk: Dip the cornstarch-coated tofu bites in a bowl of soy milk, shake off excess liquid. Dipping the tofu in soy milk helps the panko bread crumbs adhere to the surface. Shake off excess liquid to prevent the bread crumbs from becoming soggy. Use a shallow bowl for easy dipping. Beginner Note: Use a fork or tongs to dip the tofu bites in soy milk.
4. Coat with Panko: Dip the soy milk-coated tofu bites in panko bread crumbs. Ensure the tofu bites are fully coated with panko bread crumbs. Press the bread crumbs gently onto the surface to help them adhere. Use a separate bowl for the panko bread crumbs. Beginner Note: Use your hands to press the panko bread crumbs onto the tofu bites.

Air Fryer Version:

1. Arrange in Air Fryer: Evenly distribute the tofu bites in the air fryer basket. Don’t overload the basket (you may need to do two rounds). Overloading the air fryer basket can prevent the tofu from crisping up properly. Arrange the tofu bites in a single layer. Leave space between the tofu bites for air circulation. Beginner Note: Preheat the air fryer before adding the tofu bites.
2. Air Fry: Air fry at 400°F for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway, until the outside is brown and crispy. Flip the tofu bites halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Monitor the tofu bites closely to prevent them from burning. Use a timer to ensure even cooking. Beginner Note: The cooking time may vary depending on the air fryer model.
3. Coat with Buffalo Sauce: Dip the cooked tofu bites in buffalo sauce with a fork and drain off excess buffalo sauce. Use a fork to dip the tofu bites in buffalo sauce to prevent them from breaking apart. Drain off excess sauce to prevent the tofu from becoming soggy. Beginner Note: Use a bowl that is large enough to accommodate the tofu bites and buffalo sauce.
4. Air Fry Again: Place the buffalo-coated tofu bites back into the air fryer basket. Cook for another ~5 minutes until crispy again on the outside. The second round of air frying helps to crisp up the buffalo sauce and create a sticky, flavorful coating. Monitor the tofu bites closely to prevent them from burning. Beginner Note: The cooking time may vary depending on the air fryer model and the amount of buffalo sauce.

Oven Version:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line tofu bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden, flipping halfway through. Flipping the tofu bites halfway through baking ensures even browning. Parchment paper prevents the tofu from sticking to the baking sheet. Use a baking sheet that is large enough to accommodate the tofu bites. Beginner Note: The cooking time may vary depending on the oven.
2. Coat with Buffalo Sauce: Dip in buffalo sauce and bake buffalo tofu bites for another 10-15 minutes until crispy. The second round of baking helps to crisp up the buffalo sauce and create a sticky, flavorful coating. Monitor the tofu bites closely to prevent them from burning. Beginner Note: The cooking time may vary depending on the oven and the amount of buffalo sauce.
3. Serve: Serve crispy buffalo tofu bites with vegan ranch or blue cheese. Optional: sprinkle parsley on top for garnish. Serve the tofu bites immediately while they are still hot and crispy. Use a serving platter that is large enough to accommodate the tofu bites and dips. Beginner Note: Garnish the tofu bites with fresh herbs for a visually appealing presentation.