How to Prepare Crispy Air-Fried Tofu Nuggets: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve ever thought tofu was bland or boring, think again! Transform this versatile ingredient into crispy, delicious nuggets that even the pickiest eaters will love. Air frying offers a healthier twist, allowing you to enjoy the crispiness of fried foods without all the oil. Curious? Let’s dive into making crispy air-fried tofu nuggets that are bound to become a household favorite.
What You Need:
- 1 block (14-16 oz) of firm or extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or liquid aminos
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or any vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: breadcrumbs or panko for extra crunch
Equipment:
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Paper towels or a clean kitchen towel
- Plate or tray
Step 1: Press the Tofu
The secret to extra crispy tofu lies in removing as much water as possible from the tofu block. Start by draining the tofu and then wrap it in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Place it on a plate, put another plate on top, and weigh it down with something heavy (a can of beans or a book works well). Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. If you’re short on time, you can press it for as little as 5-10 minutes, but the longer, the better.
Step 2: Cut and Season
Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized nugget pieces – think about the size of traditional chicken nuggets. Then, transfer the pieces into a mixing bowl. Add the soy sauce and oil, gently tossing to coat each piece evenly. This not only adds flavor but also helps the dry ingredients stick to the tofu.
In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture over the tofu pieces, tossing gently until they are all coated. For an extra crispy crunch, now is the time to roll the nuggets in some breadcrumbs or panko.
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. This step ensures that your tofu starts cooking in hot air, giving it that enviable crispy exterior. Arrange the tofu nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t touching too much. You might need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Air fry the tofu for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time. This helps the nuggets cook evenly and get crispy all around. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and deliciously crispy on the outside.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Your crispy air-fried tofu nuggets are now ready to be devoured! Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce – ketchup, barbecue sauce, or a simple vegan mayo work great. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main alongside some veggies and rice.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Air-Fried Tofu Nuggets:
- Dry Well: The drier the tofu, the crispier your nuggets will be. Don’t skip the pressing step!
- Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning. Tofu is like a sponge and will absorb all the flavors you add to it.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Giving your tofu nuggets space in the air fryer ensures they get crispy all around.
- Shake It Up: Shaking the basket halfway through cooking is key to even crispiness.
Congrats! You’ve just made a batch of irresistible crispy air-fried tofu nuggets. Whether you’re a long-time tofu lover or new to the game, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and flavor. It proves that healthier eating doesn’t have to be dull or complicated. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s make snacking a tasty and crispy adventure. Enjoy your cooking, and most importantly, enjoy your crispy tofu triumphs!