Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets (Printable Version)

Crunchy tofu pieces with tender interior, ideal for snacking, dipping, or plant-based meals. Ready in 30 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Tofu

01 - 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained

→ Marinade

02 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Breading

07 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend
08 - 1/3 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
09 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs
10 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

# Directions:

01 - Press tofu for a minimum of 10 minutes to eliminate excess moisture. Cut into 1-inch cubes or nugget shapes.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Add tofu cubes and coat thoroughly. Marinate for 10 minutes.
03 - Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with plant-based milk, and one with panko breadcrumbs combined with onion powder and salt.
04 - Dredge each tofu piece in flour, dip into plant-based milk, and coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to ensure breadcrumbs adhere.
05 - Preheat air fryer to 390°F for 3 minutes.
06 - Arrange coated tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with oil.
07 - Air fry at 390°F for 13–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until nuggets are golden brown and crisp.
08 - Serve hot with preferred dipping sauce.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Uses everyday pantry ingredients that are easy to find
  • Ready in just thirty minutes which makes it ideal for busy weeknights
  • Packed with plant-based protein and easy to adapt for gluten-free diets
  • Makes a healthy snack that both kids and adults rave about
02 -
  • High in protein and fiber which makes it a healthy substitute for classic nuggets
  • So incredibly freezer-friendly and great for meal prep
  • Free from dairy and nuts to suit wide dietary needs
03 -
  • Do not rush pressing the tofu as dry tofu equals crispy nuggets every time
  • Shaking the air fryer basket at the halfway mark ensures even browning
  • If making a double batch work in batches to avoid overcrowding the fryer

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