Plant-Based, Recipes

Crispy Air Fried Tofu Nuggets

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Crispy Air Fried Tofu Nuggets

Welcome to the ultimate guide on how to make crispy air fried tofu nuggets! Whether you’re a tofu enthusiast or looking to explore a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks, you’re in for a treat. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create irresistible tofu nuggets that are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Why Choose Air Fried Tofu Nuggets?

Health Benefits

Tofu, a staple in many vegetarian and vegan diets, is renowned for its health benefits. Packed with protein, iron, and calcium, tofu is not only nutritious but also versatile. By air frying tofu instead of deep-frying, you significantly reduce the amount of oil used, making it a healthier option without compromising on taste or texture.

Environmental Impact

Opting for tofu over traditional meat products can also have a positive impact on the environment. Tofu production generally requires fewer resources and produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to meat production, making it a more sustainable choice for environmentally-conscious consumers.

Crispy Air Fried Tofu Nuggets:

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These Crispy Air Fried Tofu Nuggets are a healthier, plant-based alternative to traditional nuggets. Coated in a light, flavorful breading and cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer, they’re crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside—perfect for snacking, dipping, or adding to bowls and salads.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Course Appetizer, Main Course, Snack

Cuisine American, Fusion

Servings servings

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

Air fryer
2 Mixing bowls
Knife & cutting board
Tongs or spatula
Paper towels (for pressing tofu)

Ingredients

1 block Extra firm tofu Pressed and cubed
1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat Air Fryer to 375 F (190)
In a bowl mix breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder and onion powder, salt and pepper
Dip each tofu cube into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each is coated evenly
Place coated tofu cubes in air fryer basket in single layer
Air Fry for 12 to 15 minutes until the tofu is golden and crispy - flipping halfway through

Notes

Press the tofu well to remove excess water—this makes it extra crispy.
For added flavor, marinate the tofu in soy sauce, garlic, or your favorite seasoning blend before breading.
Works great with dipping sauces like BBQ, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo.
Can be made gluten-free by using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer to bring back crispiness.
Tofu Press - Tofu Press Dishwasher Safe for Quickly Exacting Water from Organic Silken, Extra Firm Tofu

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcal

Keyword air fryer tofu, Crispy tofu, high-protein vegetarian meals, plant-based nuggets, tofu nuggets, vegan appetizer

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Recipes

Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer

Serving Suggestions:

Crispy air fried tofu nuggets are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them as a tasty appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce, or incorporate them into salads, wraps, or Buddha bowls for a protein-packed meal. Get creative with your toppings and accompaniments to suit your taste preferences.

Mastering the art of making crispy air fried tofu nuggets is not only easy but also rewarding. By following this guide, you’ll be able to create delicious, healthier alternatives to traditional fried snacks that are sure to impress friends and family alike. So fire up your air fryer and get ready to enjoy crispy tofu nuggets like never before!

FAQ

Why is my tofu not crispy in the air fryer?

Your tofu might not be crispy in the air fryer due to excess moisture. Tofu contains a lot of water; if it’s not correctly pressed before cooking, it can prevent it from achieving a crispy texture. Additionally, not using enough coating or not air frying at the correct temperature and time can also result in soggy tofu instead of crispy.

How do you keep the tofu from sticking to the air fryer?

To prevent tofu from sticking to the air fryer basket, lightly coat it with cooking spray or oil before placing the tofu nuggets. You can also use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to line the basket, further preventing sticking and making cleanup easier.

What do you coat the tofu in before frying?

Before frying tofu, it’s typically coated in cornstarch, egg (or a vegan alternative like a flaxseed egg), and breadcrumbs. The cornstarch helps to absorb moisture from the tofu and creates a crispy exterior, while the egg acts as a binder for the breadcrumbs, ensuring they adhere to the tofu properly.

Do you need to dry tofu before frying?

Yes, drying tofu before frying is essential to remove excess moisture. Pressing the tofu between paper towels or clean kitchen towels with a weighted object on top helps to expel the water from the tofu, allowing it to absorb marinades and coatings better and achieve a crispier texture when fried.