Vegan Oil-Free Cordon Bleu

 Who said you need meat, oil, or deep frying to enjoy a perfectly crispy, satisfying cordon bleu? These golden tofu bites prove that a plant-based twist can still deliver that classic crunch and cheesy surprise inside—with none of the heaviness.

I made them small for easy serving, coated them in cornflakes for maximum crispness, and filled them with melty vegan cheese. No oil, no fuss—just the satisfying texture and flavor you crave. They’re delicious and served hot with creamy hummus, crisp lettuce, and a splash of lime for that fresh contrast.

Perfect as a snack, lunch centerpiece, or even as part of a fun dinner platter.

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Cordon Bleu 

Vegan, Gluten-Free, Oil-Free

Ingredients (for ~4 small bites):

• 200g firm tofu

• 3–4 tbsp vegan cheese (shreds or slices, meltable)

• ½ cup cornflakes, crushed

• 2 tbsp chickpea flour or oat flour (for dredging)

• 3 tbsp plant milk

• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for coating flavor)

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Pinch of salt and pepper

Optional for serving:

• Hummus

• Lettuce or cabbage leaves

• Lime wedges

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Instructions:

1. Prep tofu: Slice tofu into small squares or rectangles, about 1–1.5 cm thick. Make a shallow cut through the middle of each piece and stuff with a small amount of vegan cheese. Press gently to close.

2. Set up breading stations:

   • Bowl 1: Mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

   • Bowl 2: Plant milk.

   • Bowl 3: Crushed cornflakes (mixed with nutritional yeast if using).

3. Bread the tofu: Dip each piece in the flour mix, and plant milk, and then roll in crushed cornflakes to coat evenly.

4. Bake or air-fry:

   • Oven: Preheat to 190°C (375°F). Place tofu on a baking tray lined with parchment. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.

   • Air fryer: Air-fry at 190°C for 15–18 minutes until golden and crispy.

     
     
     

5. Serve immediately with hummus, crisp greens, and a squeeze of lime.

   
   
   
   
   

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Final Thoughts

These bites are like nostalgic comfort food with a crunchy twist—light, satisfying, and loaded with flavor. The cornflake crust is unbelievably crispy, and the melted cheese inside makes each bite totally addictive. I love pairing them with creamy hummus and a splash of citrus to balance out the richness.

You can also serve them in wraps, with grain bowls, or as part of a party platter. They're great hot, but even cold leftovers taste delicious the next day.

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Nutrition Info (per 1 piece, estimate based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~105 kcal

• Protein: ~6g

• Carbs: ~9g

• Fiber: ~1g

• Fat: ~4g (from vegan cheese and tofu)

• Sugars: <1g