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Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets: A Delightful Plant-Based Treat

Tofu has long been a staple in vegetarian and vegan diets, but its versatility often goes unnoticed. Whether marinated, grilled, or stir-fried, tofu can take on various textures and flavours. One of the most exciting ways to prepare this protein-rich ingredient is by transforming it into crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets. Perfect as a snack, a light meal, or a party appetiser, these nuggets are easy to make and oh-so-delicious.

Why Choose Tofu?

Tofu is an excellent source of protein, making it a fantastic option for those reducing meat intake. It is low in calories yet high in essential nutrients like calcium and magnesium. By using an air fryer, you can achieve a delightful crunch without the need for copious amounts of oil, making this dish a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks.

What You Will Need

Ingredients:

• 400g firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 100g breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• Fresh herbs or a dip of your choice for serving

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Tofu: Start by draining the tofu and pressing it to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel, place it on a plate, and use a heavy object like a frying pan to press down for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the tofu absorb flavours better and achieve a firmer texture.

2. Cut into Nuggets: Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or shape them into nugget forms. This will give you a nice, even surface for the marinade and breading.

3. Marinate the Tofu: In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently toss the tofu nuggets in this marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour for more flavour.

4. Coat the Tofu: In a separate bowl, place the cornflour and breadcrumbs. First, dredge each marinated nugget in cornflour, shaking off any excess, then dip it back into the marinade before rolling it in the breadcrumbs. This double-coating method adds an extra layer of crunchiness.

5. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F) and let it preheat for roughly five minutes.

6. Air Fry the Nuggets: Place the coated tofu nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook in batches. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure an even crisp.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Once golden brown and crispy, remove the nuggets from the air fryer. Serve them hot, garnished with fresh herbs or alongside your favourite dipping saucer—think sweet chilli sauce, vegan mayo, or a zesty mustard.

Tips for Success

• Choosing Tofu: For this recipe, firm or extra firm tofu works best. Silken tofu tends to be too soft and won’t hold its shape during cooking.

• Additions and Variations: Feel free to get creative! Add different spices to the breadcrumb mixture, such as Italian herbs or curry powder, to give your tofu nuggets a unique twist. You can also mix in nutritional yeast for an added cheesy flavour.

• Storing Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely, as they are quite addictive!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crunch.

Conclusion

Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets are not only a healthy alternative to traditional fried snacks but also a delightful way to enjoy tofu. They are easy to prepare, packed with flavour, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving these as a snack, adding them to salads, or simply enjoying them on their own, they’re sure to please vegans and non-vegans alike. Give this recipe a try, and discover just how satisfying tofu can be!