Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets (Oven & Air Fryer)
These crispy tofu nuggets are one of those simple plant-based recipes that end up surprising people in the best way. They are golden and crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and made with everyday pantry ingredients. They are completely vegan, dairy-free, and nut-free, with a straightforward breading method that makes them easy to get right even if you do not cook with tofu often. They are great for kids and adults alike, especially served with the quick garlic-sesame dipping sauce that comes together in minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 (14–16 oz) block extra-firm tofu
- ½ cup unsweetened dairy-free milk
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (check nut-free facility if needed)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ¾ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Neutral oil spray
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp neutral oil
- ½ tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp maple syrup
- Pinch garlic powder
Instructions
- 1Press and prep the tofu
Press tofu for 30 minutes minimum. If you skip this step, your coating will steam instead of crisp. After pressing, tear into irregular nugget shapes.
- 2Make the milk mixture
Whisk together the dairy-free milk and apple cider vinegar. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- 3Set up your breading station
Arrange three bowls: Bowl 1 with flour, cornstarch, and half the seasonings. Bowl 2 with the milk mixture. Bowl 3 with panko and the remaining seasonings.
- 4Bread the tofu
Toss each tofu piece in the flour mixture, dip it into the milk mixture, then press firmly into the panko. Really press — don't be gentle. That's how you get a thick, satisfying crunch.
- 5Oven Method
Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place nuggets spaced apart and spray tops lightly with oil. Bake for 15 minutes, flip, spray again, and bake for another 10–15 minutes until deep golden brown. Cool for 3–5 minutes before serving to set the crust.
- 6Air Fryer Method
Preheat air fryer to 400°F and lightly spray the basket. Cook nuggets for 14–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Do not overcrowd the basket.
- 7Make the dipping sauce
Whisk together soy sauce or tamari, neutral oil, sesame oil, maple syrup, and a pinch of garlic powder until combined. Serve alongside the nuggets.
