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Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets - Air fryer tofu: make crispy popcorn-style nuggets perfect for snacking or a light meal. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, ide

Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets

Air fryer tofu: make crispy popcorn-style nuggets perfect for snacking or a light meal. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, ideal for plant-based diets.
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Prep Time 12 minutes
Cook Time 13 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces super firm tofu (vacuum-packed)
  • 2 tablespoons tamari (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • Several spritzes of oil spray (I use avocado oil spray)

Method
 

  1. Remove tofu from package, and blot dry with a clean kitchen towel. Use your hands to break the tofu apart into chunks, roughly 1 1/2 inches to 2-inches in size, into a medium-sized bowl with a lid.
  2. Season the tofu with tamari, apple cider vinegar, onion powder, and salt. Gently use your hands to ensure even coverage. Marinate for 5 minutes if time allows.
  3. Sprinkle cornstarch and nutritional yeast over the tofu. Cover the bowl with a lid and shake to evenly coat all pieces. Alternatively, use a freezer bag for shaking.
  4. Place all tofu pieces into the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400 degrees for 11 to 13 minutes, stopping halfway through to spray with oil and shake the basket. Continue cooking, stopping once or twice more to spray again and shake for even browning until golden and crunchy.
  5. Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

- For the crispiest results, ensure your super firm tofu is thoroughly blotted dry before breaking it apart. Excess moisture prevents a truly golden crust.
- I've found that marinating the tofu for even just 5 minutes significantly boosts its internal flavor, though the coating carries much of the taste. Don't skip the shake-and-spray during air frying for even browning.
- Store leftover tofu nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.