Description
Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets are a perfect plant-based snack or appetizer. Coated in a savory wet and dry batter blend with arrowroot powder, nutritional yeast, and aromatic spices, these super-firm tofu chunks turn delightfully crispy in the air fryer without deep frying. This easy, gluten-free recipe offers a healthy alternative to traditional nuggets, ready in just 15 minutes and perfect for dipping or adding to your favorite meal.
Ingredients
Wet Batter
- 1 Block Super-Firm Tofu
- 2 Tablespoons Low Sodium Soy Sauce
- 2 Tablespoons Neutral Oil (such as canola or vegetable oil)
Dry Batter and Seasoning
- 1/4 Cup Arrowroot Powder
- 1/4 Cup Nutritional Yeast
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Paprika
- 1/2 Teaspoon Poultry Seasoning (vegan spice blend)
- 1/8 Teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
- Pepper to Taste
Instructions
- Rip Up the Tofu: Tear the block of super-firm tofu into medium to large chunks to create nugget-sized pieces. Avoid making them too small for better texture.
- Cover in Wet Batter: In a large bowl, mix the low sodium soy sauce and neutral oil together. Gently add the tofu chunks, tossing carefully to ensure each piece is fully coated in the wet mixture without breaking.
- Shake Them in the Dry Batter: Combine the arrowroot powder, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper inside a sealable plastic bag. Shake well to mix. Add the coated tofu pieces to this bag and shake until all pieces are evenly covered with the dry batter.
- Add to Air Fryer: Arrange the coated tofu pieces in a single layer in the basket of your air fryer. Set the temperature to 350°F (190°C) and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the tofu nuggets develop a crisp, golden coating.
- Oven Instructions (Optional): If you prefer to bake, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the tofu nuggets on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes until crisp.
- Serve: Remove the tofu nuggets from the air fryer or oven and let cool slightly. Serve immediately as a snack, appetizer, or protein addition to your meals with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use super-firm tofu to ensure the nuggets hold their shape well during cooking.
- For a gluten-free version, replace soy sauce with tamari.
- Medium to large tofu chunks provide the best texture for nuggets—too small can break apart easily.
- This recipe is vegan and gluten-free by default.
- Adjust salt and pepper seasoning to your preference.
