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Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe by School Night Vegan

In the realm of plant-based cooking, few dishes are as satisfying as crispy tofu nuggets. For those looking to whip up a quick, nutritious, and utterly delicious meal, look no further than the Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets recipe by School Night Vegan. This dish not only satisfies snack cravings but also serves as a versatile addition to salads, wraps, or simply enjoyed on their own with your favourite dipping sauce.

Ingredients

To create these delectable nuggets, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 block of extra-firm tofu (about 400g)
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast (optional, for added flavour)
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon of black pepper
• ½ cup of breadcrumbs (panko works wonderfully)
• Oil spray (for that perfect crisp)
• Optional: Your choice of dipping sauce (like sweet chilli, barbecue, or a homemade vegan ranch)

Method

1. Prepare the Tofu: Start by draining the tofu and pressing it to remove excess moisture. Stacking the tofu block between two plates and placing something heavy on top (like a can or a few books) for about 20 minutes works well. This step is essential as it allows the tofu to absorb the flavours better and achieve a crispier texture when cooked.

2. Marinate: Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or nuggets. In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Add the tofu to the bowl and gently toss until all pieces are evenly coated in the marinade. Allow it to sit for at least 15-20 minutes; for an even deeper flavour, marinate for up to an hour.

3. Coat with Breadcrumbs: After marinating, place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Take each tofu nugget and roll it in the breadcrumbs, ensuring it is well-coated for that perfect crunch.

4. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 392°F). Once preheated, arrange the tofu nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray them lightly with oil to enhance crispiness. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even crisping. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time to avoid over-browning.

5. Serve: Once done, remove the tofu nuggets from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve immediately with your chosen dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavour.

Tips for Perfect Nuggets

• Extra Firm Tofu: Always opt for extra-firm tofu for the best texture. Soft or silken tofu will not yield the desired firm nugget.
• Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with the seasonings according to your taste. Adding cayenne pepper for heat or dried herbs for an aromatic touch can take these nuggets to another level.
• Batch Cooking: These nuggets can be made in larger batches and stored in the fridge for quick meals during the week. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Conclusion

School Night Vegan’s Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets are an excellent way to enjoy a guilt-free, plant-based treat. They are not only perfect for feeding the family on a busy weeknight but also ideal for meal prep or as a delightful snack for gatherings. With their crispy exterior and soft centre, these nuggets are bound to become a favourite in your household. Give this recipe a go, and you may just find yourself craving more – they’re that good!

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