🧄 Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets – Meat-Free Perfection!

 

Craving something crunchy, savory, and meat-free? These Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets are the ultimate plant-based snack or meal—golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor! With no deep frying and minimal oil, they’re perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking to eat a little lighter without sacrificing taste.

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🧾 Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Optional: nutritional yeast or grated vegan parmesan for extra flavor

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep the tofu:
   Press tofu for at least 10–15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into nugget-sized cubes.

2. Season & marinate:
   In a bowl, mix soy sauce, oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss tofu pieces in the marinade and let sit for 10 minutes.

3. Coat the tofu:
   Set up a breading station:

   • Bowl 1: Plant-based milk

   • Bowl 2: Mix breadcrumbs with cornstarch and (optional) nutritional yeast
     Dip each tofu nugget into the milk, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.

4. Air fry:
   Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with oil. Arrange tofu nuggets in a single layer.
   Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

5. Serve:
   Let cool slightly, then serve with your favorite dipping sauces!

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Pair with classic dips like vegan ranch, barbecue sauce, or spicy sriracha mayo.

• Serve over a salad, grain bowl, or in wraps for a protein-packed meal.

• Make a tofu nugget platter with pickles, fries, and slaw for a fun dinner.

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💪 Nutritional Information

• Tofu: High in protein, calcium, and iron, tofu is a powerhouse plant-based food.

• Breadcrumbs: Adds fiber and texture—opt for whole wheat or gluten-free versions.

• Spices: Garlic and paprika not only boost flavor but also bring antioxidant benefits.

• Air-fried instead of deep-fried = lower fat and fewer calories.

These nuggets are crunchy, satisfying, and a much healthier alternative to traditional fried options!

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🌱 Dietary Considerations

• ✅ Vegan: 100% plant-based

• ✅ Gluten-Free: Use tamari and gluten-free breadcrumbs

• ✅ Nut-Free: Choose a nut-free plant milk like oat or soy

• ✅ High-Protein: Tofu offers ~10g of protein per serving

• ✅ Low-Fat Option: Skip the oil in the marinade and spray lightly if needed