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Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets: A Delicious Plant-Based Snack
Looking for a quick, easy, and mouth-watering vegan snack? These Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets are exactly what you need. Perfectly golden on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re packed with protein and flavor. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or part of a main meal, these nuggets are sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Why Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets Are a Game-Changer
Cooking tofu in an air fryer is a game-changer for plant-based meals. Traditional methods often leave tofu soggy or bland, but the air fryer ensures each nugget becomes crispy without excess oil. This makes it healthier while still giving you that satisfying crunch. Plus, the air fryer cooks quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute snacks.
Health Benefits of Tofu
Tofu is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s rich in plant-based protein, low in calories, and contains essential vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium. Including tofu in your meals can help maintain muscle mass, support heart health, and provide a satisfying alternative to meat. These nuggets are a fun and flavorful way to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet.
Nutrition and Cost Per Serving :
🍽️
Calories
180 kcal
Calories
180 kcal
🥩
Protein
14 g
Protein
14 g
🥑
Fat
7 g
Fat
7 g
🌾
Carbs
14 g
Carbs
14 g
💰
Total Cost
$2.75
Total Cost
$2.75
Toffu Nuggets
Ingredients
- For the Tofu:
- 1 block 14-16 oz / 400g extra-firm tofu
- For the Coating:
- 3 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 🧄 1 tsp garlic powder
- 🌰 1 tsp onion powder
- 🌶 ½ tsp smoked paprika or regular paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional
- For the Wet Batter:
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour or gluten-free 1:1 flour blend
- 🥛 3 tbsp unsweetened plant milk soy, almond, or oat work best
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp soy sauce or tamari
- For Serving Optional:
- – Your favorite dipping sauces BBQ, vegan ranch, ketchup, sweet and sour
- Fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Press the Tofu: Drain the tofu. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Place something heavy on top and press for 15-20 minutes to remove excess water.
- Cut the Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes or bite-sized nuggets.
- Prepare the Coating: In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
- Prepare the Wet Batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, plant milk, nutritional yeast, and soy sauce until smooth.
Coat The Tofu
- Toss tofu in the cornstarch mixture until lightly coated.
- Dip each piece into the wet batter.
- Optional: Double-dip in cornstarch for extra crispiness.
- Preheat Air Fryer: 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Air Fry: Place nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Let cool 1-2 minutes and serve with dipping sauces.
Notes
🟢 No Press? Squeeze tofu gently to remove some water if short on time.
🟢 Oil-Free Option: Light spray of oil helps browning.
🟢 Gluten-Free: Use tamari and gluten-free flour.
🟢 Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat in air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes.
Tips for Making Perfectly Crispy Nuggets
- Press Your Tofu: Removing excess water is key to achieving a crunchy exterior.
- Use Light Coatings: A combination of flour or starch and spices helps the batter stick and crisp up nicely.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Air fry in a single layer to ensure each piece gets evenly crispy.
- Optional Spritz: A quick spray of oil can enhance browning without making them greasy.
Serving Suggestions
These vegan nuggets are incredibly versatile. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like vegan ranch, BBQ, or ketchup. They also pair well with salads, grain bowls, or even as a filling in wraps and sandwiches. Their adaptability makes them a hit for parties, meal prep, or a simple snack on busy days.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover tofu nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in the air fryer rather than the microwave. This ensures they stay golden and crunchy while remaining tender on the inside.
Summary
Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets are a quick, healthy, and versatile plant-based snack that’s easy to make at home. Packed with protein and flavor, they satisfy cravings without the need for deep frying. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, these nuggets are a must-try addition to your vegan recipe collection.
Start experimenting with your favorite seasonings and sauces, and enjoy the satisfying crunch of homemade vegan tofu nuggets any time!
