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.