Crispy, golden, and totally addictive, these air fryer tofu nuggets might just be the best tofu nugget recipe out there. This easy air fryer recipe comes together in under 20 minutes with extra firm tofu, giving you protein-packed bites that are perfect for tossing on a salad, stuffing in a wrap, or enjoying solo with my Versatile Vegan BBQ Dipping Sauce!
When I tell you that when I first bit into these crispy, flavorful air fried tofu nuggets my jaw dropped, I’m not exaggerating. Even as a Registered Dietitian who shares tons of delicious tofu recipes all the time, I was still blown away!
Like, how can something that’s so easy be so delicious?!
And when I say easy, I mean REALLY easy. As in, basically just ripping apart a block of tofu, tossing in some spices, and throwing in the air fryer for 15 minutes and you’re left with ridiculously easy nuggets that taste like they’re fried, but aren’t.
Plus, they pair perfectly with pretty much any sauce. My Versatile Vegan BBQ Dipping Sauce is my current obsession, since it takes seconds to whip up and makes everything taste better!
Perfectly Crispy & Protein Packed
What makes them so crispy, you ask? Well, I’ve tested cutting them tons of different ways to discover that instead of slicing, you rip the tofu into chunks, giving them those jagged edges that crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
Plus, the seasoning blend hits that sweet spot of flavorful without being overwhelming, so they’re versatile enough to pair with pretty much anything!
The Drier the Tofu, The Crispier the Nuggets!
The drier the tofu, the more flavor it soaks up, and the crispier those golden nugget edges get! That’s why we’re all about extra-firm tofu here: it holds its shape and comes with way less water than the softer varieties.
Once you pop it out of the package, just give it a quick wrap in a paper towel and a gentle press. I’ve tested this recipe with firm tofu too, and while it does work, the nuggets don’t come out nearly as crunchy or satisfying.
I’ve tested using these tofu nuggets so many ways and they’re honestly all delicious, but one of my favorites is on my Actually Tasty and Healthy Kale Salad for the perfect filling salad that tastes delicious!
Making These Nuggets Is Easier Than You Think
Actually Tasty and Healthy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets
Equipment
- Air fryer If you don't have an air fryer, see note for making these in the oven!
Ingredients
- 1 350 g block extra-firm tofu
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Start by draining the excess water from the tofu package, if there is any. Wrap the tofu in a clean towel and press lightly the remove the excess water.
- Tear the tofu into 1 inch size chunks. This is vital to get those jagged edges of the tofu that holds all the delicious spices in the nooks and crannies, so don't cube the tofu with a knife. Place in a large bowl and add the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Place in a large bowl and add the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Place in an air fryer. Set air fryer to 400 F and air fry for 15 minutes, shaking the air fryer container about half way through, until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, on top of a salad or in a wrap and enjoy!
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