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+ servings
Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets – Easy, Healthy & Delicious

Toffu Nuggets

5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 3 Servings

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.
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