Sweet Chili Tofu Nuggets (View Print Version)

Golden tofu nuggets coated in a tangy sweet chili glaze, crisped to perfection.

# What You'll Need:

→ Tofu Nuggets

01 - 14 oz extra-firm tofu
02 - 2 tablespoons cornstarch
03 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or rice flour for gluten-free
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
09 - 2 tablespoons neutral oil such as canola or avocado

→ Sweet Chili Sauce

10 - 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce store-bought or homemade
11 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
12 - 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
13 - 1 teaspoon sesame oil

→ Garnish

14 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

# Method:

01 - Wrap tofu in a clean towel and place a heavy object on top. Allow to drain for 10 to 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
02 - Cut the drained tofu into bite-sized nuggets approximately 1 inch each.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
04 - Toss tofu nuggets in the coating mixture until evenly coated on all sides.
05 - Drizzle oil over the coated tofu pieces and toss again to ensure thorough coating.
06 - Arrange coated tofu nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
07 - Air fry at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until tofu is golden and crispy.
08 - While tofu cooks, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
09 - Transfer cooked tofu to a large bowl and pour sauce over top. Gently toss to coat all nuggets evenly.
10 - Transfer to serving plate and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They're genuinely crispy on the outside and tender inside—no soggy regrets here.
  • The sweet chili sauce strikes that perfect balance between sticky, tangy, and just a whisper of heat that keeps you reaching for another nugget.
  • Ready in 30 minutes flat, making them ideal for weeknight cravings or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.
02 -
  • Skipping the pressing step is the quickest way to end up with soggy tofu that will make you question everything—don't rush this part.
  • Crowding the air fryer basket defeats the purpose; the tofu needs space to crisp up, so cook in batches if necessary.
  • The sauce clings better to hot tofu, so don't let it cool down before tossing—timing is everything here.
03 -
  • For extra crispiness without adding time, lightly spray the coated tofu with a bit of oil before air frying—it makes a noticeable difference.
  • Tempeh works beautifully as a substitute if you want a nuttier flavor and slightly different texture, though it needs the same pressing and cooking time.
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