Crispy Tofu Nuggets (Air Fryer)

Crispy Tofu Nuggets (Air Fryer) (2026 Viral Recipe). This recipe has gone viral for a reason: it’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious.

Below you will find the step-by-step instructions to make this amazing dish at home.

Looking for the best Crispy Tofu Nuggets (Air Fryer) recipe? You are in the right place!

Introduction

Get ready to revolutionize your snack game with this scrumptious recipe for Crispy Tofu Nuggets, cooked to perfection in an air fryer! As a vegan or vegetarian, you know that finding crispy and delicious alternatives to traditional fried foods can be a challenge. But fear not, dear foodies, because today we’re going to dive into the wonderful world of tofu nuggets.

These bite-sized morsels are not only mouth-wateringly good but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you’ll be enjoying crispy, golden-brown tofu nuggets in no time. Plus, they’re packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, making them an excellent choice for a healthy snack or meal.

So, if you’re ready to level up your snacking game and experience the thrill of biting into a crunchy, flavorful piece of vegan heaven, then let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1 block of extra-firm tofu (14 oz), drained and cut into small cubes (about 1-inch)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: Your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., ketchup, mustard, vegan ranch)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prepare the tofu**: Cut the tofu into small cubes and place them on a paper towel-lined plate or tray. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
2. **Mix the breading mixture**: In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
3. **Coat the tofu cubes**: Dip each tofu cube into the breading mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place coated tofu cubes on a plate or tray.
4. **Dredge in panko breadcrumbs**: Dredge each tofu cube in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place coated tofu nuggets on a separate plate or tray.
5. **Preheat the air fryer**: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for about 3-4 minutes.
6. **Cook the tofu nuggets**: Place the coated tofu nuggets in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through.
7. **Drain excess oil**: Remove the tofu nuggets from the air fryer and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
8. **Serve**: Serve the Crispy Tofu Nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauce (if desired).

Pro Tips for Success

* For an extra crispy exterior, you can chill the coated tofu nuggets in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking.
* To prevent the breading from falling off during cooking, make sure to press it onto the tofu cubes gently but firmly.
* If you prefer a lighter coating, you can use less panko breadcrumbs or omit the additional flour mixture step.
* Experiment with different seasonings and spices in the breading mixture to create unique flavor profiles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can bake the tofu nuggets at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown. However, the results may vary depending on your oven’s performance.

Q: What if my tofu is not extra-firm? Can I still use it?
A: While extra-firm tofu works best, you can try using regular firm tofu as a substitute. Just be aware that the nuggets might not hold their shape as well and may require adjustments to the cooking time.

Q: How do I store leftover Crispy Tofu Nuggets?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven before serving.

Now that you’ve got this scrumptious recipe under your belt, get ready to delight your taste buds and impress your friends with these mouth-watering Crispy Tofu Nuggets!

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💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Air Frying

• Space is Key: Don’t overcrowd the basket for max crispiness. 🌬️
• Preheat: A preheated air fryer gives better results. 🔥
• Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄

💡 Master Your Air Fryer: Pro Tips

• Airflow: Don’t crowd the basket. 🌬️
• Preheat: 3-5 mins for best results. 🔥
• Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄

Why You Should Use an Air Fryer for This Recipe

Using an air fryer is a game-changer for this recipe. Unlike traditional frying, it uses up to 95% less oil, making your meal significantly healthier without sacrificing that delicious crunch. Plus, it is faster than a conventional oven and doesn’t heat up your entire kitchen.

Pro Tips for Perfection

• Don’t Overcrowd: Always cook in a single layer to ensure the hot air circulates evenly.
• Preheat: Taking 3 minutes to preheat your air fryer ensures the food starts cooking immediately for a crispier texture.
• Shake It: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides.

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until they are crispy again. Do not use a microwave, as it will make them soggy.