Ingredients
Tofu and Marinade
- 14 oz extra-firm organic tofu
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or sesame, peanut, avocado oil)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder (or ¾ teaspoon if you prefer less garlicky) or onion powder
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano (or basil, thyme)
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon hot paprika or ground black pepper (optional)
Coating
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch, divided in half
Additional
- Oil spray (optional for air fryer basket)
- Parmesan paper (for lining air fryer basket)
- Creamy vegan sauce (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Press the tofu: Press extra-firm tofu for at least 15 minutes, preferably 30 minutes, to remove excess moisture. Then cut the tofu into cubes.
- Prepare marinade: In a small bowl, mix balsamic vinegar and fine sea salt until combined.
- Marinate tofu: Add the pressed tofu cubes to the bowl, then stir in olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, dried basil, and optional paprika or ground pepper. Gently coat the tofu evenly using your hands or a spatula. Let marinate for 15 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Coat with cornstarch: Place tofu cubes into a plastic bag. Add half of the cornstarch and shake gently to coat the tofu evenly but without creating a paste.
- Prepare air fryer: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer with space between them for even cooking.
- Air fry the tofu: Bake at 400ºF (204ºC) for 15 minutes. Halfway through cooking, shake the air fryer basket or turn the tofu cubes carefully with kitchen tongs to ensure even crisping.
- Serve: Enjoy tofu nuggets hot as an appetizer with your favorite creamy vegan dipping sauce, on top of greens, or in a buddha bowl.
- Optional oven method: Preheat oven to 450ºF (232ºC). Place tofu cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone mat. Bake for 25 minutes, turning the tofu halfway through for even browning.
- Optional pan-fry method: Omit cornstarch. Pan-fry marinated tofu cubes in a non-stick skillet with minimal oil. Toss gently and fry until golden brown, turning as needed.
Notes
- Pressing tofu is key to achieve a good crispy texture and to allow the marinade to absorb better.
- You can adjust garlic powder and paprika amounts based on your flavor preference.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure tofu crisps evenly.
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the tofu cubes with oil before air frying.
- This recipe can be easily doubled for more servings.
- Leftover tofu nuggets store well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the air fryer for best texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Healthy
- Diet: Low Fat, Low Lactose, Low Salt, Vegan, Vegetarian
