Vegan Oven Fried Zucchini Sticks Recipe

Zucchini: Fresh, medium-sized zucchini cut into sticks for the base of the recipe.

Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs that add extra crunch to the zucchini sticks.

Nutritional yeast: Adds a cheesy, nutty flavor and is a staple in vegan cooking.

Garlic powder: Provides a savory, aromatic flavor to the breadcrumb mixture.

Onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.

Paprika: Gives a mild, smoky flavor and a touch of color.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and complexity.

Almond milk: Unsweetened, used to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the zucchini sticks.

Olive oil: Drizzled on top to help the zucchini sticks crisp up in the oven.

To achieve an extra crispy texture, try double-dipping the zucchini sticks. First, dip them in the almond milk, then coat them with the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat the process by dipping them again in the almond milk and then in the breadcrumb mixture. This double coating will create a thicker, crunchier layer that enhances the overall texture of the oven-fried zucchini sticks.

• Zucchini - Substitute with eggplant: Eggplant has a similar texture and can be cut into sticks, providing a comparable base for the recipe.

• Panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes offer a similar crunch and can be used as a gluten-free alternative.

• Nutritional yeast - Substitute with ground sunflower seeds: Ground sunflower seeds can provide a nutty flavor and similar texture, though they won't have the cheesy flavor of nutritional yeast.

• Garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers a more intense and aromatic flavor.

• Onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Finely chopped onions can provide a fresh and robust onion flavor.

• Paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper, smoky flavor that can enhance the overall taste.

• Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add moisture.

• Black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.

• Unsweetened almond milk - Substitute with unsweetened soy milk: Unsweetened soy milk has a similar consistency and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative.

• Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it suitable for oven frying.

• Allow the zucchini sticks to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Transfer the cooled zucchini sticks to an airtight container. Line the container with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The zucchini sticks will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the zucchini sticks on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again.

• For freezing, arrange the cooled zucchini sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for 1-2 hours, or until they are solid.

• Once frozen, transfer the zucchini sticks to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

• When ready to enjoy, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the frozen zucchini sticks on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the zucchini sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and regain their crispiness.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the zucchini sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are warm and crispy.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the zucchini sticks in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are heated through and crispy.

• Microwave Method: Place the zucchini sticks on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Note that this method may not retain the original crispiness as well as other methods.

• Oven: Used to bake the zucchini sticks at the required temperature of 425°F (220°C).

• Baking sheet: A flat sheet used to place the zucchini sticks on for baking.

• Parchment paper: Lining the baking sheet to prevent the zucchini sticks from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

• Mixing bowl: Used to mix the breadcrumb mixture.

• Another mixing bowl: Used to hold the almond milk for dipping the zucchini sticks.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, and almond milk.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Knife: Used to cut the zucchini into sticks.

• Cutting board: A surface to safely cut the zucchini on.

• Drizzle bottle or spoon: Used to drizzle the olive oil over the zucchini sticks.

• Tongs: Optional, but can be used to dip the zucchini sticks into the almond milk and coat them with the breadcrumb mixture.

• Oven mitts: Used to safely handle the hot baking sheet when removing it from the oven.

Pre-cut zucchini: Save time by buying pre-cut zucchini sticks from the store or cutting them in advance and storing them in the fridge.

Use a large bowl: Mix the breadcrumb mixture in a large bowl to coat multiple zucchini sticks at once, speeding up the process.

Line up ingredients: Arrange all your ingredients and bowls in an assembly line to make the dipping and coating process faster.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin prepping to ensure it's ready when you are.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and bake in batches, storing extras for quick reheating later.