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To make crispy tofu nuggets, you need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need: - 1 block firm tofu, drained and pressed - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour - 1 tablespoon cornstarch - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup plant-based milk (like almond or soy) - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - Cooking spray or olive oil for misting These ingredients work together to give you a crispy, flavorful nugget. You can customize your tofu nuggets with extra spices or herbs. Try adding: - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning for a herby taste - 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor These optional seasonings let you adjust the taste to your liking. If you have dietary needs, you can swap some ingredients. For a gluten-free version, use: - Gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour - Gluten-free panko breadcrumbs You can also use silken tofu for a softer nugget, but it won’t be as crispy. Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas. To start, gather all your ingredients. You will need: - 1 block firm tofu, drained and pressed - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour - 1 tablespoon cornstarch - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or soy) - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - Cooking spray or olive oil for misting First, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step helps the nuggets cook evenly. Next, cut your pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes, around 1 inch each. This size helps them crisp up nicely. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mix gives the nuggets flavor and crunch. In another bowl, mix the plant-based milk and soy sauce. This will help the coatings stick to the tofu. Finally, place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl. Now, it’s time to coat the nuggets. First, dip each tofu piece into the flour mixture. Make sure to cover it all over. Then, move it to the plant-based milk mixture. Let the excess drip off. Finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them stick. Arrange the coated tofu nuggets in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching. This allows hot air to circulate and crisp them up. Mist them lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Cook the nuggets for 12 to 15 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even browning. You want them golden brown and crispy. Once done, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. To get the best crunch, use firm tofu. It holds its shape well and has less water. Press the tofu well to remove extra moisture. This step is key for crispiness. Make sure to coat the nuggets evenly. If the coating is too thick, it may not crisp up well. Also, don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Space allows for better airflow and crisp results. For extra flavor, you can add more spices to the flour mixture. Try adding some cayenne pepper for heat or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. Enjoy your crispy air fryer tofu nuggets with a tasty dipping sauce! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. Pressing tofu is key for crispy nuggets. Start with firm or extra-firm tofu. Drain the tofu and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. Place a heavy object on top, like a cast iron skillet. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess water, allowing your tofu to soak up flavor and get crispier. Air fryers cook food with hot air. This method makes tofu nuggets crispy without deep frying. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the nuggets in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket. This ensures even cooking and crispiness. Mist the nuggets lightly with cooking spray or olive oil for best results. Flip them halfway through cooking for uniform browning. Cooking times may vary based on air fryer models. Start with 12-15 minutes. Check for golden brown color. If your nuggets are not crispy enough, add a few extra minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Adjust time as needed for larger or smaller pieces. Enjoy experimenting to find your perfect crispy texture! {{image_2}} You can make these tofu nuggets gluten-free! Swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour. Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. These changes keep the crispy texture and taste great. You won’t miss the gluten at all. Feel free to play with seasonings. Try adding cumin for a warm flavor. Use Italian herbs like oregano and basil for a twist. If you like heat, add cayenne pepper or chili powder. Mixing different spices makes every batch unique and fun. Dipping sauces add flavor! Serve with spicy sriracha mayo for a kick. A sweet chili sauce pairs well, too. For a tangy option, try ranch or creamy tahini sauce. You can also mix soy sauce with sesame oil for a savory dip. Enjoy your meal by mixing and matching sauces to find your favorite! After enjoying your crispy air fryer tofu nuggets, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure they cool down first. Place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb moisture. This keeps them from getting soggy. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat the nuggets, it’s best to use the air fryer again. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the nuggets in the basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. This will help them regain their crispiness. You can also use an oven, but the air fryer gives the best results. If you want to keep your nuggets longer, freezing is a great option. Arrange the cooked nuggets on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer them into a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, cook them straight from the freezer in the air fryer. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. Check out the Full Recipe for more details! Yes, you can use other types of tofu, but firm tofu works best. Soft or silken tofu does not hold its shape well when cooked. If you try extra-firm tofu, it might be denser and chewier. You can also use seasoned tofu for added flavor right away. Just remember to adjust your seasoning since flavored tofu can be saltier. You can serve these nuggets with many sides. Here are some tasty options: - Fresh salad - Rice or quinoa - Steamed veggies - Dipping sauces like sriracha mayo or sweet chili sauce These sides make a great meal and add variety to your plate. Plus, they pair well with the crispy texture of the nuggets. To make your tofu nuggets spicier, add chili powder to the flour mix. You can also try cayenne pepper for more heat. Another option is to serve the nuggets with a spicy dipping sauce. Mix sriracha with mayo or create a spicy soy sauce for dipping. Adjust the spice level to your taste for the perfect kick! Tofu nuggets are a tasty and versatile dish. You learned about main ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for crispiness. We explored gluten-free options and fun ways to serve these nuggets. Storing leftovers and reheating them keeps your meal fresh. Now you’re ready to make great tofu nuggets that fit your needs. Enjoy the cooking process and feel proud of your meal. Try different seasonings to discover your favorite flavor. Happy cooking!

Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets

Enjoy delicious and healthy Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with this easy recipe! Perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden perfection, these nuggets are a plant-based treat that will satisfy your cravings. With simple ingredients and just 30 minutes of prep time, you’ll find a new favorite appetizer or snack. Click through to explore the full recipe and impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering dish!
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Ingredients
  

1 block firm tofu, drained and pressed

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or soy)

1 tablespoon soy sauce

Cooking spray or olive oil for misting

Instructions
 

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

    Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces).

      In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

        In another bowl, combine the plant-based milk and soy sauce.

          Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

            Dip each tofu nugget into the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat, then into the plant-based milk mixture, and finally roll in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.

              Arrange the coated tofu nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Mist lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.

                Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

                  Once cooked, remove the tofu nuggets from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.

                    Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4-6

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the crispy tofu nuggets in an attractive bowl, accompanied by a dipping sauce like spicy sriracha mayo or tangy sweet chili sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flair.