Easy Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets: Vegan and Gluten-Free

Air fryer tofu nuggets are a crispy, healthy, gluten-free, vegan snack. This simple recipe transforms firm tofu into delicious nuggets using brown rice flour and an air fryer. They are ideal for a quick appetizer or an addition to various dishes.

Despite its many health benefits, tofu often seems bland and boring. It typically resembles a flavorless, gelatinous blob in dishes. Other times, it seems so over-saturated with oil to hold some flavor that I can almost feel my arteries hardening.

That perception shifted dramatically when we got our air fryer, which allows us to indulge in fried delights without any added oil.

For my husband Jeff, this was an irresistible challenge. He enthusiastically experimented with our new kitchen gadget, trying his hand at various recipes and creations.

Although not everything turned out perfectly, his crispy tofu nuggets are a win.

How to make tofu in an air fryer

A few dietary bonuses of this air fryer tofu: no oil, made without cornstarch, gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan.

What you need

• Firm tofu
• Brown rice flour or tapioca flour
• Salt, pepper, or other spices (optional)
• Parchment paper to line the air fryer tray

Cut and coat the nuggets, line the air fryer tray, and cook.

Health benefits of the main ingredients

Disclaimer: Statements regarding health benefits are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.

Tofu is not only a versatile ingredient but also offers various health benefits. It’s a great source of protein, contains all nine essential amino acids, and is a valuable plant source of iron and calcium.

Additionally, tofu is a low-calorie option with beneficial fats and no cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy choice. It is high in protein and minerals. Health experts on sites such as WebMD and Harvard Medical School support these benefits.

Tips for making crispy tofu in an air fryer

1. We want to stress “gently” when tossing the tofu to coat it with gluten-free flour. Otherwise, the nuggets will break apart. Putting the tofu nuggets in a plastic bag with the flour, leaving air in the bag, then twisting the top to seal the bag and slowly rotating the bag in all directions will evenly coat the tofu.
2. We use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure the nuggets cook evenly.
3. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow hot air to circulate freely around each nugget, enhancing the crisp texture.
4. If using an air fryer oven rather than a basket, cook on the top shelf for the best crispiness.
5. If your air fryer tends to cook quickly, check the tofu at 10 minutes to prevent overcooking.
6. Consider seasoning the brown rice flour with salt and pepper or your favorite spices before coating the tofu for extra flavor.
7. We don’t turn the tofu during the cooking process, and as a result the bottom side is white while the other sides get a more crispy coating. However, they taste great the way do them. If this bothers you, flip the tofu after about 8 minutes.

Serving suggestions

These air fryer tofu nuggets are surprisingly versatile. We had no idea how many ways we would find to use them when we first started making them. They are a stand-alone, great for vegetarian potlucks, or an ingredient.

Here are some of the ways we have used these crispy tofu nuggets:

• As a stand-alone snack.
• With toothpicks stabbed in them, we can use a dipping sauce to change the flavor completely. For example, we can go for a South American treat with Chilean pebre, an Asian vibe with peanut satay sauce, or various other options.
• As one of many protein items on a mezze platter.
• For a hearty breakfast or lunch, we add them to omelets.
• Using them in a tofu stir-fry gives a crispier texture.
• They pair beautifully with sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad to create a balanced meal.

Some readers have asked . . .

Our gluten-free air fryer tofu nuggets recipe

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How will you use these air fryer tofu nuggets?

More vegan ideas. . .