Crispy Tofu Nuggets

Updated January 5, 2026

Description: Crispy Tofu Nuggets are a satisfying plant-based alternative to traditional chicken nuggets, offering a crunchy exterior and tender interior. This air fryer recipe uses pressed extra-firm tofu marinated in tangy brine and spices, resulting in a texture reminiscent of golden, crispy nuggets. Serve with ketchup, vegan BBQ sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious snack or meal.

Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes (includes pressing tofu)

  • Cook Time: 25 minutes (air fryer)

  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 (14-ounce) block extra-firm tofu

  • 2 tablespoons dill pickle brine or caper brine (or substitute: 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar + 1 tbsp water + 1 tsp sugar)

  • 2 tablespoons tamari (or soy sauce, for gluten-free use, ensure tamari)

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • ½ teaspoon organic cane sugar

  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

  • ½ to 1 teaspoon sea salt (to taste)

  • Cooking oil spray

  • Ketchup, vegan barbecue sauce, or preferred dipping sauce

Instructions: Air Fryer Method

Step 1: Press Tofu

Pressing tofu removes excess moisture, critical for achieving a crispy texture.

  • Remove tofu from packaging and drain.

  • Line a container (e.g., a large bowl or plate) with 3–4 layers of paper towels. Place the tofu block on top and cover with additional paper towels.

  • Set a heavy weight (e.g., a pan filled with canned goods) on top. Let sit for 20 minutes to drain moisture.

Step 2: Preheat Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Step 3: Prepare Tofu Nuggets

  • Break the pressed tofu into bite-sized nuggets (1–2 inches in diameter) and transfer to a large bowl.

  • In a separate small bowl, mix the dill pickle/caper brine, tamari, olive oil, and sugar. Pour this marinade over the tofu and toss to coat evenly.

  • Add the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir gently to ensure all nuggets are coated with the spice mixture.

Step 4: Air Fryer Setup

  • Lightly spray a piece of parchment paper with cooking oil spray. Place it in the air fryer basket.

  • Transfer the coated tofu nuggets to the basket, spreading them in a single layer (avoid overcrowding).

  • Spray the tops of the nuggets with additional cooking oil spray to enhance crispiness.

Step 5: Cook the Nuggets

  • Cook in the preheated air fryer for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through (after 10 minutes).

  • If the nuggets are not fully crispy after 20 minutes, continue cooking for 5 more minutes, monitoring closely to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with ketchup, vegan BBQ sauce, or your preferred dipping sauce.

Baking Alternative (Oven Method)

For those without an air fryer, bake the nuggets at 375°F (190°C):

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the coated tofu nuggets in a single layer.

  • Lightly spray with cooking oil.

  • Bake for 40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy on the edges.

Storage & Reheating

  • Leftovers: Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

  • Freezing: Freeze nuggets for up to 3 months. Do not thaw before reheating—reheat directly from frozen using the original air fryer or oven instructions.

Taste & Adaptations

  • Texture Tweak: For extra crispiness, adjust oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) when using the oven method (convection recommended).

  • Sauce Variations: Swap ketchup for hot wing sauce, stone-ground mustard, garlicky aioli, honey mustard, sweet & sour, or ranch.

  • Creative Pairings: Wrap in lettuce with peanut sauce for a tortilla-free wrap, or serve with fries for a classic comfort food combo.

Community Q&A

  • Q: What if I don’t have brine?

A: Substitute with 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar + 1 tbsp water + 1 tsp sugar for tangy flavor.

  • Q: How to make without an air fryer?

A: Use the Oven Method above (375°F for 40 minutes, flipping halfway).

  • Q: Any other dipping sauce ideas?

A: Try vegan ranch, sweet chili sauce, or sriracha mayo for bold flavor.

Enjoy these crispy, protein-packed nuggets as a snack, side, or main dish!

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