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Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets

Extra-firm tofu pressed, cubed, tossed in a cornstarch-spice coating, and air-fried until deeply golden and satisfyingly crunchy - a high-protein vegan side or snack that pairs with any dipping sauce. Plan ahead: press the tofu for at least 20 minutes before starting.

43 minEasyServes 4240 cal/serving

AmericanSideAir FryerHigh ProteinVeganVegetarianLow CarbKosher-styleDairy-FreeEgg-FreeShellfish-FreeNut-FreeLow-SodiumPork-Free

Ingredients

  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed, cubed
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly ground

Instructions

  1. 1

    Press 14 oz extra-firm tofu by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy skillet on top for at least 20 minutes. Cut into 1-inch cubes.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, toss the tofu with 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) and 2 tbsp olive oil. Let sit 2 minutes to absorb.

  3. 3

    Sprinkle 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper over the tofu and toss until every piece is evenly coated.

  4. 4

    Preheat air fryer to 400°F (205°C). Arrange the coated tofu in a single layer in the basket - do not crowd. Work in batches if needed.

  5. 5

    Air fry 15 to 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the nuggets are deep golden and crisp on all sides.

  6. 6

    Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce such as sweet chili, sriracha mayo, or teriyaki.

Questions

Can I make Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets ahead?

Yes, it takes well to being made ahead. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours and eat them within three days. Re-crisp leftovers in the air fryer at 350 F for three to four minutes; the microwave softens the coating.

Can I halve or double Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets?

Yes. As written it serves 4. Every ingredient in this entry carries precomputed half and double quantities, and the app's batch dial rewrites them inside each step. Doubled, air-fry in batches; a crowded basket steams instead of crisping.

Serve it with

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