If you love tofu, these air-fried nuggets will be your favorite. They're crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. Plus, they're vegan-friendly and perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces. In this post, I will introduce you to this air fryer tofu nuggets recipe in detail, including their preparation and much more. Get ready to be amazed by these golden-brown bites!
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Simple ingredients
- Tofu: For air-frying tofu, extra-firm tofu is generally the best option. Its lower water content compared to softer varieties makes it better suited for air frying. You can also use super-firm tofu; it works well, too!
- Sesame oil: Sesame oil has a distinct nutty aroma and flavor that enhances the overall taste of the tofu.
- Paprika: Adds color and a mild, sweet pepper flavor to the dish.
- Garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onion (for garnish, optional)
- Chili powder: Add it if you like spicy tofu bites.
Dipping sauce mix: I create a very basic, simple dipping sauce by mixing Gochujang, sugar, and rice vinegar. You can also add a dash of sesame oil if you want extra flavor.
Step-by-step cooking instructions
Tofu press: Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Place the block of tofu on a cutting board and wrap it in layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Then, place a heavy object, like a heavy bowl or a cast iron skillet, on top of the tofu block and let it press for about 10-15 minutes. (Add a thin cutting board in between for an easier process.) This will help remove excess moisture and give the tofu a firmer texture.
Cut and marinate: Once the excess liquid has been pressed out, cut the tofu block into bite-sized cubes or nuggets shape. Sprinkle the sesame oil (if using), paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the tofu cubes. Gently toss to coat evenly. Let the tofu marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Air frying: Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F. Place the tofu nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
Cooking time: Air fry the tofu pieces for a total of 20 minutes, flipping halfway at the 10-minute mark or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Serve and enjoy: Once the tofu nuggets are ready, remove them from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Note: If you prefer an even more crispy texture, try lightly coating the tofu pieces with corn starch, tapioca flour, or panko bread crumbs powder before air-frying. This helps to absorb moisture and creates a crispy exterior.
Serving suggestions for air fryer tofu nuggets
Besides serving these flavorful nuggets directly, there are so many serving suggestions for air fryer tofu nuggets, such as:
Dipping Sauces: Some top dipping sauces are sweet chili sauce, soy ginger sauce, sriracha mayo, buffalo sauce, and BBQ sauce.
Salads: You can serve tofu nuggets over a bed of mixed greens with your favorite salad vegetables.
Rice or grain bowls: You can also pair tofu nuggets with cooked rice or grains like quinoa or brown rice. Add steamed or roasted vegetables and a drizzle of sauce for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Stir fry: If you have not tried it, add tofu nuggets to a delicious vegetable stir-fry!
Soup noodles and ramen: Add tofu nuggets to vegetable or miso soup. Or use them as a topping for homemade ramen bowls, along with noodles, broth, and assorted vegetables.
These nuggets are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even as a side of any full meal.
Storing air fryer tofu nuggets
You can store any leftover tofu nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or toaster oven for a quick and delicious snack later.
Final thoughts
Air fryer tofu nuggets are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fried tofu nuggets. They are super easy to make, and you can achieve a crispy and flavorful nugget without the added grease and calories. If you are looking for a healthier alternative to greasy fried nuggets, try this recipe. Happy air frying!
Easy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets Recipe (Vegan Friendly)
Ingredients
- 1 block extra firm tofu or firm
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- sesame seeds and chopped green onion for garnish, optional
Dipping sauce option:
- 1 tablespoon Gochujang sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar
Instructions
- Tofu press: Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Place the block of tofu on a cutting board and wrap it in layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Then, place a heavy object, like a heavy bowl or a cast iron skillet, on top of the tofu block and let it press for about 10-15 minutes. (Add a thin cutting board in between for an easier process.) This will help remove excess moisture and give the tofu a firmer texture.
- Cut and marinate: Once the excess liquid has been pressed out, cut the tofu block into bite-sized cubes or nuggets shape. Sprinkle the sesame oil (if using), paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the tofu cubes. Gently toss to coat evenly. Let the tofu marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Air frying: Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F. Place the tofu nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
- Cooking time: Air fry the tofu pieces for a total of 20 minutes, flipping halfway at the 10-minute mark or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the tofu nuggets are ready, remove them from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
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