Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets (Popcorn Tofu) Recipe
These crispy air fryer tofu nuggets, also known as popcorn tofu, are a delicious and healthy plant-based snack or appetizer. Made with super firm tofu marinated in tamari and apple cider vinegar, coated in cornstarch and nutritional yeast, and air fried to golden perfection, they are irresistibly crunchy on the outside while tender inside. Perfect for a quick and satisfying vegan bite with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack, Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Vegan, Plant-based
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Tofu and Marinade
- 16 ounces super firm tofu (vacuum-packed)
- 2 Tablespoons tamari (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Coating
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 3 Tablespoons nutritional yeast
- Several spritzes of oil spray (avocado oil spray recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare the tofu: Remove the tofu from its package and blot it dry using a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Break the tofu into chunks roughly 1 1/2 to 2 inches in size by hand, placing them into a medium-sized bowl with a lid.
- Marinate the tofu: Add tamari, apple cider vinegar, onion powder, and salt to the bowl. Gently mix by hand to evenly coat the tofu pieces with the marinade. If possible, let the tofu marinate for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors, though this step is optional since the marinade will blend with the coating.
- Coat the tofu: Sprinkle cornstarch and nutritional yeast evenly over the tofu pieces. Secure the lid on the bowl and shake well to coat all the tofu chunks thoroughly. Alternatively, transfer the cornstarch and nutritional yeast to a freezer bag, add the tofu, seal it, and shake gently to ensure full coating.
- Air fry the tofu nuggets: Arrange the coated tofu pieces in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 11 to 13 minutes total, stopping halfway through to spritz with oil spray and shake the basket for even cooking. Continue cooking, stopping once or twice more to apply oil spray and shake until the nuggets are golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the crispy tofu nuggets from the air fryer. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Use super firm tofu for best texture and crispiness.
- Low-sodium tamari is preferred to control saltiness.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the nuggets at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Allow the tofu to marinate briefly to enhance flavor, though this step is optional.
- Spritzing with oil during cooking helps achieve an evenly crispy exterior.
- Use avocado oil or another high smoke point oil for best results in the air fryer.
