Vegan Southern Fried Tofu

(makes 12 pieces)

• 2 lbs extra firm tofu, cut into 12 pieces

Brine

• 2 tablespoons salt
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 2 tablespoons tamari (or soy sauce)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Water, to completely cover the tofu (~10 cups)Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours. Drain.

Buttermilk Mixture

• 2 tablespoons boxed egg replacer + 3/4 cup water, mixed well
• 2 cups unsweetened non-dairy milk
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Place the marinated tofu in the buttermilk mixture. It may not cover all the tofu, but you can move it around periodically to ensure it all has a chance to soak. In the meantime, prepare your breading mixture and oil for frying.

Breading Mixture and Assembly

• 2 cups all purpose flour (Gluten-Free Flour)
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 2 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon savoury
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dill
• 1/2 teaspoon marjoram
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander
• Pinch of cayenne pepper, or more to taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes, or more to taste
• Oil, enough for deep frying

Instructions:

Mix the flour, and seasonings into a shallow baking dish. Stir these well! Dip the tofu slices into the liquid mixture then move into the flour mixture and coat well. Fry the tofu slices after they have been battered for about 5-7 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy