One of the best things about tofu is its incredible versatility—it’s like a blank canvas that soaks up all the bold flavors you throw at it! Not only is tofu an excellent source of plant-based protein, but it’s also packed with essential amino acids, calcium, iron, and manganese, making it a nutrient-dense choice for any meal.
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying plant-based taco option, these Vegan & Gluten-Free Shredded Tofu Tacos are about to become a new favorite! Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a busy weeknight, this easy-to-make recipe comes together in 30 minutes or less. The shredded tofu mimics the texture of classic shredded meats, absorbing all the delicious seasonings and spices for a mouthwatering bite every time.
The best part? These tacos are completely customizable! Load them up with your favorite toppings—fresh salsa, creamy avocado, crunchy cabbage, or a squeeze of lime—to make them your own. Trust me, once you try these, everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients Needed to Make Vegan & Gluten-Free Shredded Tofu Tacos
These flavor-packed, protein-rich tacos come together with just a few simple ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Tofu – Use extra-firm tofu for the best texture. Drain and press out any excess water before shredding.
Taco Seasoning – Adds bold, delicious flavor. Use a store-bought mix or make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Salsa – Helps infuse the tofu with zesty, smoky, or spicy flavors, depending on your preference.
Tortillas – Use soft or hard-shell corn tortillas, or any gluten-free tortilla of your choice.
Additional Toppings – Customize your tacos with your favorite toppings, such as:
Cheese Grater or Food Processor – To easily shred the tofu for a perfect taco filling texture.
How to Make Shredded Tofu Tacos
Step 1: Drain & Press the Tofu
Start by draining your block of extra-firm tofu.
Using a paper towel or clean cloth, gently press out any excess water to help the tofu absorb all the delicious flavors.
Step 2: Shred the Tofu
Grab a cheese grater and carefully shred the tofu into long, thin pieces (just like you would with cheese).
If you prefer, you can also use a food processor with a grating attachment for quicker prep.
Step 3: Season the Tofu
Transfer the shredded tofu to a medium bowl.
Add in: Taco seasoning for bold, smoky flavor. Salsa to add moisture and an extra punch of zest.
Stir gently to ensure every tofu shred is coated in delicious seasoning.
Step 4: Cook the Tofu
Air Fryer Method (Crispy & Quick!):
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil.
Spread the seasoned shredded tofu evenly in the basket.
Air fry at 350°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Oven Method (If You Don’t Have an Air Fryer!):
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Spread the shredded tofu evenly on a lined baking sheet.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and slightly crispy.
Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos
Warm your soft or hard-shell corn tortillas (or any gluten-free tortillas of your choice).
Spoon the crispy shredded tofu into each tortilla.
Customize with your favorite toppings, such as: 🌱 Lettuce or shredded cabbage 🍅 Diced tomatoes & red onion 🥑 Guacamole or sliced avocado 🌿 Fresh cilantro 🌶 Extra salsa for a kick 🧀 Vegan sour cream or creamy vegan queso
That’s it! Now you’re ready to dig into your delicious, crispy, and flavor-packed shredded tofu tacos. Perfect for Taco Tuesday—or any day! 🌮
Looking for more delicious Mexican dishes? Check out these yummy recipes.
15-16 ozblockExtra firm tofudrained and excess water pressed out
1oz.Taco seasoning1 packet
1/2cupSalsa
1packagetaco shellshard or soft corn taco shells, or any other type of gluten free taco shell.
Additional toppings: diced tomatoes, diced red onion, cilantro, lettuce, vegan sour cream, vegan creamy queso, etc.
Instructions
To make these delicious and flavorful tacos, you’ll start by draining the water from your tofu. Squeeze and gently press with a paper towel or cloth to remove any excess water.
Next, you’ll start shredding the tofu. Using a cheese grater, shred your block of tofu into long shreds.
Place your shredded tofu into a medium bowl and top with salsa and taco seasoning.
Stir gently to cover all tofu shreds with seasoning.
Place the tofu shreds into an air fryer basket lightly sprayed with cooking oil. Air fry at 350 for 15 minutes flipping halfway through.
* If you do not have an air fryer, you could also bake the shredded tofu in the oven at 350 F for 25-30 minutes flipping halfway through cooking time.
Serve on soft- or hard-shell corn tortillas, or any other gluten free tortilla of your choosing. Top with your choice of lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, guacamole, salsa, vegan sour cream or any other toppings you like. Enjoy!
