Ingredients
Scale
- For the Tofu Nuggets:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or liquid aminos
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking oil spray
- For the Honey Mustard Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey (or agave nectar)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparation – Start by pressing your extra-firm tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Wrap the block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object, like a cast-iron skillet or a few cookbooks, on top. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes or bite-sized nugget shapes.
- Step 2: Seasoning and Coating – In a medium bowl, toss the tofu cubes with soy sauce and olive oil until every piece is evenly coated. In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge each piece of seasoned tofu in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs firmly onto the tofu with your fingers to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Step 3: Cooking – Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the tofu nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil spray. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time, until the nuggets are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Step 4: Making the Sauce – While the tofu is cooking, prepare the honey mustard sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, honey, and lemon juice until the mixture is completely smooth. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or mustard if desired.
- Step 5: Plating – Transfer the hot, crispy tofu nuggets to a serving plate. Serve them immediately while they are at their maximum crunchiness. Place the honey mustard sauce in a small ramekin in the center of the plate for easy dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if you want an extra pop of color.
- Cook Time: 30 minutes