I’ve always loved the idea of turning tofu into something crispy and irresistible. Tofu has a reputation for being bland or tricky to cook, but when you coat it just right and let the air fryer work its magic, it transforms into golden nuggets that are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. Honestly, every time I make these, they disappear before I even have a chance to plate them properly.
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can adjust the seasoning to suit your mood, make a spicy version, or even pair it with your favorite dipping sauce. And the best part? Using an air fryer makes it so much easier and healthier than deep-frying, without compromising on that crave-worthy crispiness.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Firm Tofu: Choosing firm or extra-firm tofu is crucial for this recipe. It holds its shape during cooking, allowing you to create those perfect nugget shapes without them falling apart. Silken or soft tofu will be too delicate and won’t give you that satisfying crunch.
Cornstarch: Cornstarch is what gives the nuggets their golden, crispy coating. It forms a thin crust when air-fried that keeps the tofu moist inside while providing a delightful crunch outside.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds a rich, savory depth of flavor to the tofu. It’s also key for helping the seasoning adhere to the tofu before it’s coated in cornstarch.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder gives a subtle but essential savory note. It infuses the tofu with a mild garlic flavor that complements the crispy coating without overpowering it.
Paprika: Paprika adds both color and a gentle smoky flavor to the nuggets. You can use smoked paprika for extra depth or sweet paprika for a milder taste.
Nutritional Yeast (optional): This ingredient is a game-changer if you want a cheesy, savory twist on your nuggets. It enhances the flavor and adds a subtle nuttiness that pairs beautifully with tofu.
Cooking Spray or Oil: A light coating of cooking spray or brushed oil helps the cornstarch crisp up in the air fryer, creating that perfect golden exterior without deep frying.
Ingredients List
- 14 oz firm or extra-firm tofu
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
- Cooking spray or 1 teaspoon oil
How to Make Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets
Step 1: Press the Tofu
Start by pressing your tofu to remove excess water. Wrap the block in a clean kitchen towel and place something heavy on top for 15–20 minutes. This step ensures your tofu nuggets will crisp up beautifully.
Step 2: Cut the Tofu
After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or nugget shapes. Try to keep them uniform so they cook evenly in the air fryer.
Step 3: Marinate
In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, and nutritional yeast (if using). Toss the tofu cubes gently in the marinade until each piece is coated. Let them sit for 5–10 minutes for the flavors to soak in.
Step 4: Coat with Cornstarch
Place the cornstarch in a shallow dish and lightly coat each tofu cube. Make sure each piece has an even layer of cornstarch, shaking off any excess. This is what will give you that irresistible crunch.
Step 5: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the tofu nuggets with cooking spray or brush with oil. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the nuggets from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like vegan ranch, barbecue, or sweet chili sauce.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t skip pressing the tofu: Removing excess water is the secret to crispy nuggets.
- Uniform pieces: Cutting tofu into similar sizes ensures even cooking.
- Season well: Don’t be shy with spices—they make a huge difference in flavor.
- Air fryer spacing: Crowding the basket leads to uneven crispiness, so leave space between nuggets.
- Optional toppings: Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped herbs after cooking for extra flavor and presentation.
FAQs
Can I use soft or silken tofu?
Soft tofu is not recommended as it will fall apart during cooking. Firm or extra-firm tofu works best.
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
How long do leftovers last?
Store cooled nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep this recipe gluten-free.
Can I freeze these nuggets?
Yes, freeze cooked nuggets in a single layer on a tray first, then transfer to a bag or container. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.