Description
These crispy Tofu Nuggets offer a tasty plant-based alternative to classic chicken nuggets. Pressed extra-firm tofu is coated in a flavorful mixture of seasoned breadcrumbs and baked or air-fried until golden and crunchy. Perfectly sized for dipping and snacking, they make a healthy and satisfying appetizer or snack for vegans and anyone craving a crispy, savory bite.
Ingredients
Tofu
- 14 ounces (400 g) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
Bread Crumb Coating
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Other
- Olive oil cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the cooking appliance: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) or preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for cooking the tofu nuggets.
- Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful coating.
- Coat the tofu cubes: Dip each pressed and cubed tofu piece first into the all-purpose flour, then into the unsweetened plant-based milk, and finally dredge it thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Arrange the nuggets: Place the coated tofu nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if baking, or place them evenly spaced in the air fryer basket.
- Apply cooking spray: Lightly spray the tofu nuggets with olive oil cooking spray to help achieve a crispy exterior during cooking.
- Cook the nuggets: Bake in the oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness, or air-fry for 15–18 minutes until golden and crunchy.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the tofu nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as barbecue, ketchup, or spicy mayo.
Notes
- Freezing the tofu before pressing improves texture, making it meatier and better for nugget consistency.
- Serve with barbecue sauce, ketchup, or spicy mayo for enhanced flavors.
- Leftover nuggets can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
