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    Home » Recipes » Main Dishes

    Tofu Gnocchi (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

    Published: Jun 5, 2023 by Bruna · This post may contain affiliate links · 5 Comments

    Jump to Recipe·★★★★★5 from 3 reviews
    Preparing tofu gnocchi dough by cutting it into individual pieces with a dough scraper.

    This simple and easy tofu gnocchi recipe is a game-changer! With just 3 ingredients, it comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a wholesome dish that’s naturally vegan and gluten-free. Whether you enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or as a delightful side dish, this tofu gnocchi is sure to impress!

    Cooked tofu gnocchi served with pesto sauce, cooked peas, fresh arugula, and vegan Parmesan. A fork pierces one of the gnocchi.

    Get ready to discover a delightful twist on the beloved Italian comfort food, gnocchi! In this recipe, I’ll show you how to transform firm tofu into a perfect base for these delicious dumplings.

    Jump to:
    • What is tofu gnocchi
    • Why you’ll love this recipe
    • Ingredient notes
    • How to make tofu gnocchi
    • Recipe video
    • Tips & recipe notes
    • Serving suggestions
    • Variations
    • Storage & reheating tips
    • FAQs
    • Recipe

    What is tofu gnocchi

    Tofu gnocchi is a delightful variation of the traditional Italian dumplings, gnocchi. While traditional gnocchi is made with potatoes and flour, tofu gnocchi replaces the potatoes with tofu as the star ingredient. This unique twist adds a healthy touch and boosts the dish with plant-based protein.

    What makes tofu gnocchi even more appealing is its simplicity. Unlike traditional potato gnocchi that requires pre-cooking the potatoes, with tofu gnocchi, you can skip that step. Just grab a package of tofu and combine it with two other ingredients: oat flour and salt. The process remains the same – roll the dough, cut it into pieces, and cook the gnocchi. It’s a straightforward and hassle-free recipe.

    I first came across this concept in a TikTok video, and being a fan of using tofu in various dishes to make them more nutritious and satisfying (like my vegan Brazilian cheese bread and tofu yogurt recipes), I couldn’t resist giving it a try.

    In my version, I’ve made a few adjustments to both the ingredients and the technique. I’ve found that the method I’m sharing here yields a lighter and more authentic texture, reminiscent of the original gnocchi.

    Cooked tofu gnocchi served with pesto sauce, cooked peas, fresh arugula, and vegan Parmesan. A fork pierces one of the gnocchi, revealing its light and fluffy texture.

    These tofu gnocchi have a soft and delicate texture. Just like traditional gnocchi, they can be paired with a variety of sauces and toppings. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a vegan or gluten-free alternative to the classic gnocchi dish.

    Why you’ll love this recipe

    This twist on the classic Italian classic is:

    • Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps, this recipe comes together in a snap, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for those busy days when you need a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
    • Nutritious and satisfying: Made with wholesome ingredients (tofu and oat flour), these tofu gnocchi are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. They provide a high protein satisfying meal that will keep you energized and fueled.
    • Versatile: These tofu gnocchi are incredibly versatile, making them perfect as a side dish or a main course. Plus, you have the freedom to pair them with a variety of sauces and toppings to suit your preferences.
    • Customizable: Get creative and tailor the taste of your tofu gnocchi by incorporating different herbs, spices, or flavors into the dough.
    • Vegan and gluten-free friendly: This recipe is naturally suitable for those following a vegan or gluten-free diet, or anyone looking for a delicious and inclusive meal option.
    • Convenient for meal prep: Prepare a batch of tofu gnocchi in advance, as they keep well in the refrigerator for a few days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping, ensuring you have a tasty and convenient meal ready to enjoy throughout the week.

    Ingredient notes

    You only need 3 ingredients to make this delicious tofu gnocchi recipe:

    • Firm Tofu: Opt for firm tofu in this recipe as it has a lower water content, resulting in a better texture for the gnocchi. The reduced moisture allows the dough to hold its shape without requiring excessive flour.
    • Oat Flour: Oat flour provides a hearty and nutritious base for the gnocchi, complementing the tofu perfectly. If you have gluten intolerance or celiac disease, make sure to use certified gluten-free oat flour. For the best texture, opt for a fine oat flour.
    • Salt: We add sea salt to season the gnocchi dough and enhance the flavor as they cook in boiling water seasoned with salt.
    A flatlay image of all the ingredients needed to make tofu gnocchi, including firm tofu, oat flour, and salt, arranged on a marble background.

    Full ingredient measurements and detailed instructions are located in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post. This section covers notes on ingredients and possible substitutions.

    How to make tofu gnocchi

    This vegan tofu gnocchi is incredibly easy to prepare and will only take you around 30 minutes to make from start to finish!

    While the recipe card provides detailed instructions, you can also follow along with the step-by-step photos and helpful tips included here to make the process even smoother.

    Step 1: Blend the tofu mixture

    Add the firm tofu to a food processor along with the salt. Process until the tofu transforms into a smooth and creamy consistency. If you don’t have a food processor, you can use a blender or an immersion blender instead, although it requires some extra effort as no liquids are used in the recipe.

    Collage of two images: In the first image, cubes of firm tofu are placed in a food processor with salt. In the second image, a spatula held above the food processor, showcasing the smooth and creamy tofu mixture after blending.

    Step 2: Make the dough

    Transfer the tofu mixture to a large bowl and add oat flour. Mix with a spatula until almost combined, then use your hands to fully incorporate the ingredients into a soft, slightly sticky dough.

    Collage of two images: In the first image, tofu mixture and oat flour are added to a mixing bowl. In the second image, tofu gnocchi dough is mixed in the bowl with a spatula.

    Dust a clean countertop or work surface with oat flour. Place the dough on the floured surface and sprinkle additional flour on top to prevent sticking. Shape the dough into a ball using your hands. Be mindful not to add too much flour, as a softer dough will result in fluffier gnocchi.

    Collage of two images: In the first image, tofu mixture is spread on a floured marble surface and sprinkled with more oat flour. In the second image, tofu gnocchi dough is shaped into a ball on a floured marble surface.

    Step 3: Shape the dough and cut into pieces

    Divide the dough ball into four equal portions for easier handling. Then, take one portion at a time and roll it into a long rope-like shape of desired thickness.

    Collage of two images: In the first image, tofu gnocchi dough is divided into individual portions. In the second image, one portion is shaped into a rope.

    Use a sharp knife or a dough scraper dipped in oat flour to cut the ropes into small pieces, approximately 1/2 to 1 inch in length according to your preference.

    Preparing tofu gnocchi dough by cutting it into individual pieces with a dough scraper.

    Place the cut pieces on a tray dusted with oat flour. Repeat this process with the remaining portions of dough.

    Tofu gnocchi pieces on a tray, lightly dusted with oat flour.

    Step 4: Cook the gnocchi

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the tofu gnocchi to the boiling water, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Stir gently once to prevent sticking. Cook the gnocchi until they float to the surface, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.

    Tofu gnocchi cooking in a pot of salted boiling water, floating to perfection.

    Once they float, use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked gnocchi from the pot, allowing any excess water to drain, and transfer them to a plate lightly oiled with olive oil. Repeat this step until all the tofu gnocchi are cooked.

    Freshly cooked tofu gnocchi served on a plate.

    At this point, you have two options: you can serve the gnocchi as they are with your favorite sauce, or you can give them a delicious crispy finish. For a crispy texture, heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Pan-fry the gnocchi for a few minutes on each side until they turn golden brown.

    Recipe video

    Watch how to make this recipe:

    Tips & recipe notes

    • Add only the necessary amount of oat flour to bind the dough together, as excess flour can result in tough gnocchi.
    • If desired, you can press the gnocchi against a fork to create traditional ridges. However, for a simpler and time-saving approach, you can skip this step and cut the gnocchi into pieces directly before cooking, as demonstrated here.

    Serving suggestions

    The cooked (or pan-fried) tofu gnocchi can be enjoyed as a main meal or side dish. Serve them hot with your preferred sauce or toppings, just like traditional gnocchi. They pair wonderfully with a variety of sauces!

    Here are two of my favorite serving suggestions (both of them are SO good), as shown in the photos:

    • Tofu gnocchi with pesto sauce, cooked peas, fresh arugula, and vegan parmesan.
    • Tofu gnocchi with vegan bolognese sauce and vegan parmesan.
    A delicious plate of tofu gnocchi with vegan tofu Bolognese sauce, vegan Parmesan, and fresh basil. A fork is piercing one gnocchi in the center of the plate.

    You can also try classic marinara sauce, this delicious roasted tomato sauce, vegan Alfredo sauce, or this creamy vegan cauliflower mac and cheese sauce.

    For a simple and flavorful option, pan-fry the tofu gnocchi in olive oil with minced garlic and chopped fresh thyme, then finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Another delightful idea is to serve them with tomato confit, or roasted cherry tomatoes, and sautéed mushrooms.

    As you can see, there are countless ways to enjoy this tofu gnocchi recipe. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors!

    Variations

    • If you don’t have oat flour available and don’t mind using gluten, I tested this recipe with all-purpose flour and it turned out great! You can use the same amount of oat flour mentioned in the recipe and follow the instructions as-is. While I haven’t tried it with a gluten-free flour blend yet, I believe it could also work.
    • This is a basic recipe, and I chose to season it simply with salt. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite spices. I’m sure black pepper and nutritional yeast would add a delicious flavor twist!

    Storage & reheating tips

    • Storage: To store leftover cooked gnocchi, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be kept for up to 5 days.
    • Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply pan-fry the gnocchi until heated through, and serve with your favorite sauce and/or toppings.
    • Freezing: If you want to freeze tofu gnocchi, allow them to cool completely. Then, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Transfer the frozen gnocchi to airtight containers or freezer bags for storage for up to 3 months.
    • Thawing: To thaw the frozen gnocchi, place them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, follow the reheating instructions mentioned above.
    Cooked tofu gnocchi stored in a glass container, ready for storage.

    FAQs

    Why is my gnocchi not fluffy?

    If your gnocchi is not fluffy, it is likely because you added too much flour. Remember, less is more when it comes to flour. Just use enough to hold the dough together. Also, be gentle when mixing the dough to avoid overdoing it, as this can lead to the need for more flour.

    Do I need to boil gnocchi before frying?

    Yes, it is important to boil gnocchi before frying. Boiling the gnocchi first helps to cook them through and achieve the desired light texture. It also helps them hold their shape. After boiling, you can then proceed to pan-fry the gnocchi to give them a crispy exterior and enhance their flavor.

    Are you supposed to rinse gnocchi after cooking?

    There is no need to rinse gnocchi after cooking. Rinsing can remove some of the starch that helps the sauce stick to the gnocchi, but if you prefer a less sticky texture or find them sticking together, a quick rinse with warm water can help. Just keep in mind that rinsing might make the gnocchi slightly different in texture and affect how well the sauce clings to them. Feel free to experiment and see what works best for you!

    Did you try this recipe?
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    I’d love to hear about it! Please leave a comment below with a recipe rating to let me know how it was. Be sure to tag me @FeedYourselfPlants + #FeedYourselfPlants if you post it on social media — seeing your creations always makes my day. Thank you for the support!

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    Recipe

    clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
    Cooked tofu gnocchi served with pesto sauce, cooked peas, fresh arugula, and vegan Parmesan. A fork pierces one of the gnocchi.

    3-Ingredient Tofu Gnocchi Recipe


    ★★★★★

    5 from 3 reviews

    • Author: Bruna
    • Total Time: 25 minutes
    • Yield: 4 1x
    • Diet: Vegan
    Print Recipe
    Pin Recipe

    Description

    This simple and easy tofu gnocchi dough requires only 3 ingredients to make and comes together in less than 30 minutes. Rich in protein and fiber, it is naturally vegan and gluten-free. Enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish.


    Ingredients

    Units Scale
    • 500 g firm tofu, patted dry
    • 1 cup oat flour, plus more for dusting
    • 1 teaspoon sea salt

    Instructions

    1. Start by draining the firm tofu and gently pat it dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Cut the tofu into smaller pieces for easier processing.
    2. Place the tofu pieces in a food processor along with the sea salt. Process until the tofu transforms into a smooth and creamy consistency.
    3. Transfer the tofu mixture to a large bowl and add oat flour. Mix with a spatula until almost combined, then use your hands to fully incorporate the ingredients into a soft, slightly sticky dough.
    4. Dust a clean countertop or work surface with oat flour. Place the dough on the floured surface and sprinkle additional flour on top to prevent sticking. Shape the dough into a ball using your hands. Be mindful not to add too much flour, as a softer dough will result in fluffier gnocchi.
    5. Divide the dough ball into four equal portions for easier handling.
    6. Take one portion at a time and roll it into a long rope-like shape of desired thickness. Use a sharp knife or a dough scraper dipped in oat flour to cut the ropes into small pieces, approximately 1/2 to 1 inch in length according to your preference. Place the cut pieces on a tray dusted with oat flour. Repeat this process with the remaining portions of dough.
    7. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the tofu gnocchi to the boiling water, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Stir gently once to prevent sticking. Cook the gnocchi until they float to the surface, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once they float, use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked gnocchi from the pot, allowing any excess water to drain, and transfer them to a plate lightly oiled with olive oil. Repeat this step until all the tofu gnocchi are cooked.
    8. At this point, you have two options: you can serve the gnocchi as they are with your favorite sauce, or you can give them a delicious crispy finish. For a crispy texture, heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Pan-fry the gnocchi for a few minutes on each side until they turn golden brown.
    9. Once cooked, remove the gnocchi from the pan and serve them hot with your preferred sauce or toppings. They pair wonderfully with classic marinara sauce, pesto, or even a creamy vegan cauliflower mac and cheese sauce. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors!

    Equipment

    Image of KitchenAid Food Processor

    KitchenAid Food Processor

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    Image of Glass Mixing Bowl Set

    Glass Mixing Bowl Set

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    Notes

    Leftover cooked gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When ready to enjoy, simply pan-fry them until heated through. For freezing tofu gnocchi, allow them to cool, spread them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags for storage for up to 3 months.

    Check out the recipe post for ideas on how to modify the recipe and more serving suggestions.

    The nutritional information shown is an estimate provided by an online calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional’s advice.

    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Cook Time: 10 minutes
    • Category: Main Dishes
    • Method: Boiled
    • Cuisine: American

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
    • Calories: 237.6 kcal
    • Sugar: 0 g
    • Sodium: 584 mg
    • Fat: 8.1 g
    • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 6.6 g
    • Trans Fat: 0 g
    • Carbohydrates: 23.5 g
    • Fiber: 5.5 g
    • Protein: 17.2 g
    • Cholesterol: 0 mg

    Keywords: tofu gnocchi dough, vegan, gluten free, easy, quick, high protein, plant based, gnocchi made of tofu

    Did you make this recipe?

    Let me know by leaving a recipe rating below, or by tagging @FeedYourselfPlants on Instagram — I can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

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    Filed Under: Main Dishes, Side Dishes

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    1. Princess

      September 27, 2024 at 2:49 pm

      Is it regular tofu or silken tofu that is used?

      Reply
      • Bruna

        September 28, 2024 at 3:40 pm

        Regular! The one labeled as ‘firm tofu’.

        Reply
    2. Bea

      September 05, 2023 at 9:06 am

      Absolutely amazing! Tastes great and I love that it’s high in protein. Thanks for sharing!

      ★★★★★

      Reply
    3. Camila

      July 05, 2023 at 5:33 pm

      ★★★★★

      Reply
    4. Luna

      June 21, 2023 at 1:49 pm

      This is the BEST recipe ever! I love tofu and I’m always looking for more ways to add it to my diet since it’s just so good for us. I already made this tofu gnocchi five times! It paired well with different sauces I’ve tried but marinara and pesto are definitely my favorites. Thanks so much for sharing this recipe with us! Both the video and the step by step photos were very helpful.

      ★★★★★

      Reply

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    Hi, I’m Bruna. Welcome to Feed Yourself Plants! Here you will find simple, wholesome, and delicious plant-forward recipes.

    I'm constantly exploring new ingredients and cooking techniques to create dishes that are both healthy and satisfying. My goal is to show you that cooking doesn't have to be a chore – it can be fun, creative, and downright delicious!

    More about me →

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