Sliders with Crispy Tofu

Name: Sliders with Crispy Tofu
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 block firm tofu, pressed and sliced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 slider buns; 1 ripe avocado, sliced; 1 small cucumber, sliced; Pickles, for topping; Sriracha mayo (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick Kitchen

I absolutely love hosting casual get-togethers, and my Sliders with Crispy Tofu have become a real crowd-pleaser! The combination of crispy tofu and fresh toppings on a soft bun creates a delightful bite that even non-vegetarians rave about. This recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare and offers a fantastic way to enjoy vegan flavors while still satisfying everyone’s cravings. Plus, they’re perfect for customizing with your favorite sauces and veggies. Trust me, these sliders will be a hit at your next gathering!

Created by

Jessamine Ford

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:53:35.143Z

While experimenting with tofu in my kitchen, I stumbled upon the perfect way to create a crispy exterior that pairs wonderfully with soft buns. By marinating the tofu and using cornstarch before frying, I discovered how to achieve that satisfying crunch. It's a game changer that elevates the entire slider experience. I’ll never go back to boring tofu again!

Each bite of these sliders offers a blend of textures and flavors, especially when complemented with fresh toppings like avocado and tangy pickles. I love serving them with a homemade sriracha mayo, which adds a delightful kick. These sliders are not just food; they bring people together, making every gathering memorable.

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Crispy tofu that adds a satisfying crunch
Customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

Mastering Crispy Tofu

Achieving the perfect crispy tofu is all about moisture removal and proper coating. Pressing the tofu is essential as it allows the flavors to penetrate and helps attain that coveted crunch. After slicing, let the tofu sit in the marinade for at least 10 minutes to absorb the savory soy sauce and olive oil. If you're short on time, you can even marinate it while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

When coating the marinated tofu with cornstarch, make sure each piece is thoroughly coated. This provides a crisper texture when frying. If you notice the cornstarch doesn't stick well, consider letting the tofu marinate a bit longer or patting it dry before coating. A non-stick skillet is ideal to avoid sticking, but if you're using a regular one, be generous with the oil.

Slider Assembly Tips

Assembling sliders allows you to get creative! Feel free to customize with diverse toppings beyond avocado and cucumber. Roasted red peppers, shredded carrots, or even kimchi add an exciting dimension to flavor and texture. Additionally, remember to adjust the amount of toppings based on bun size to prevent overflow, ensuring each bite is perfectly balanced with crispy tofu and toppings.

While sriracha mayo is a fantastic choice for a spicy kick, consider other variations like garlic aioli or a tangy Dijon mustard. If you're preparing these sliders for guests, you might prepare multiple sauces for everyone to choose from, enhancing the fun of the gathering!

Ingredients for Sliders with Crispy Tofu

For the Crispy Tofu

1 block firm tofu, pressed and sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sliders

4 slider buns
1 ripe avocado, sliced
1 small cucumber, sliced
Pickles, for topping
Sriracha mayo (optional)

Prepare all the ingredients before you start cooking for the best results.

Instructions for Sliders with Crispy Tofu

Prepare the Tofu

Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Once pressed, slice it into thick slabs and marinate in soy sauce and olive oil for about 10 minutes.

Coat and Fry

Sprinkle the cornstarch over the marinated tofu, ensuring each piece is coated well. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Fry the tofu for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

Assemble the Sliders

Slice the slider buns in half. Spread some sriracha mayo on the bottom half, then layer with crispy tofu, avocado slices, cucumber, and pickles. Top with the other half of the bun.

Serve

Serve your sliders warm and enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce or side!

Enjoy these sliders fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, experiment with different marinades or add a sprinkle of sesame seeds before frying the tofu.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These sliders are remarkably make-ahead friendly! You can prepare the crispy tofu in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the tofu in a preheated skillet over medium heat until crispy again, which usually takes about 5–7 minutes. This makes hosting much easier and allows you to enjoy time with your guests.

If you're thinking of freezing the tofu, make sure to properly wrap it after frying to maintain its texture. However, keep in mind that freezing can slightly alter the tofu's crispiness when reheated, so it's generally best enjoyed fresh. If you've got leftover sliders, store the ingredients separately to keep everything fresh, assembling just before serving.

Dietary Swaps and Substitutions

This recipe is quite versatile for dietary needs! If you're looking for gluten-free options, swap regular soy sauce with tamari, which is made without wheat. For a low-carb alternative, consider using lettuce wraps instead of slider buns—just layer the toppings on a large lettuce leaf for a fun, fresh twist.

For additional protein, you can mix the tofu with other ingredients like black beans or chickpeas in the filling. This not only elevates the sliders but also enriches the flavor. If you prefer a different texture, baked polenta slices can be a great base instead of tofu, adding a creamy note to your sliders.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake the tofu instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the tofu at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until crispy. Just make sure to flip them halfway through.

→ What's the best way to press tofu?

The easiest way to press tofu is by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top, like a cast iron skillet, for about 15-20 minutes.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat the tofu in a skillet for the best texture.

→ Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free buns and tamari as a substitute for soy sauce.