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Shocking 3-Step Air-Fryer Crispy Tofu Nuggets

Air-Fryer Crispy Tofu Nuggets

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Make satisfying, crunchy tofu nuggets in your air fryer. These nuggets are a fantastic plant-based alternative that delivers great flavor and texture without the need for deep frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 block (14 ounces) extra-firm tofu, pressed
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Cooking spray or light oil for air frying

Instructions

  1. Cut the pressed tofu into nugget shapes, about 1 inch thick.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Add the tofu pieces and toss gently to coat. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
  3. In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
  4. Working with one piece at a time, dredge the marinated tofu in the flour mixture, pressing lightly so the coating adheres well. Shake off any excess.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  6. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil.
  7. Arrange the coated tofu nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding.
  8. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through cooking. Continue cooking until they are golden brown and crispy.
  9. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Pressing the tofu completely is key for achieving a firm, non-crumbly texture.
  • For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the nuggets with oil just before the final few minutes of air frying.
  • Feel free to adjust the spices to match your taste preference.

Nutrition