Crunchy Air-Fried Tofu Nuggets are a plant-based, crispy, and satisfying snack or appetizer that’s perfect for tofu lovers or anyone looking to enjoy a healthier alternative to traditional nuggets. These tofu nuggets are coated in a crispy, flavorful breading and air-fried to golden perfection. With a tender center and crunchy exterior, they make a perfect snack, side dish, or a vegan-friendly protein option for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 block firm or extra-firm tofu
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu:
Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes (about 1 inch). To press the tofu, wrap it in a clean towel and place something heavy on top, like a cast iron pan, for about 10 minutes. - Prepare the Breading:
In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. - Coat the Tofu:
In a separate bowl, toss the tofu cubes with soy sauce and lemon juice (if using) until evenly coated. Then, gently coat each piece of tofu in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well. - Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. - Air Fry the Tofu Nuggets:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the breaded tofu nuggets in the basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Lightly spray the top of the nuggets with olive oil to ensure they crisp up. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu nuggets are golden brown and crispy. - Serve:
Once cooked, remove the tofu nuggets from the air fryer and serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce, barbecue sauce, or a tangy vegan ranch.
Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 22-25 minutes
Serves
- Makes about 2-3 servings (depending on portion size).
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 180-220
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
Key Notes
- Tofu Prep: Pressing the tofu is essential to get rid of excess moisture, which helps the tofu absorb the flavors better and become crispier during cooking.
- Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs are key to achieving that extra crunch. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
- Flavor Boost: Marinate the tofu before breading for added flavor. You can use soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of maple syrup for a sweet and savory marinade.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve these tofu nuggets with a variety of dipping sauces such as spicy ketchup, honey mustard, or a tangy soy-based dip.
- Storage: These tofu nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Vegan Option: The recipe is fully plant-based and vegan-friendly. Ensure that your breadcrumbs are vegan if you follow a strict plant-based diet.
These Crunchy Air-Fried Tofu Nuggets are a healthy, crispy alternative to traditional nuggets, offering a satisfying crunch without the extra oil and calories. Perfect for meal prep, snacks, or party appetizers, they are sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike! Enjoy!