Air Fryer Tofu Popcorn Nuggets

• firm tofu↗1 блок
• all‑purpose flour↗4 ст. л. tbsp
• paprika↗1½ ч. л. tsp
• Dijon mustard↗1 ч. л. tsp
• milk↗125 мл ml
• panko breadcrumbs↗75 г g
• garlic granules↗½ ч. л. tsp
• bouillon powder↗1 ст. л. tbsp

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel, place it on a large rimmed plate. Cover with a heavy object (e.g., a skillet) and add a few jars or bottles to create pressure. Let it sit for 30 minutes—the tofu will shrink and release excess liquid. Optionally, you can press it beforehand for up to 24 hours.

2. 2

   Cut the tofu into 3 cm cubes or tear into pieces. Transfer to a bowl and mix with 1 tbsp flour and 1 tsp paprika. Set aside. In another bowl combine the remaining flour, Dijon mustard, and milk; if the mixture thickens, whisk with a fork and set aside. In a third bowl combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic granules, bouillon powder, and ½ tsp paprika, then spread the mixture onto a tray.

3. 3

   Preheat the air fryer to 190 °C. Dip each tofu cube first into the milk mixture, then coat in the prepared breadcrumbs and place in the air‑fryer basket (you can do it in batches). Cook for 12–15 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove the cooked cubes and keep them in a warm place. Repeat the process with the remaining pieces.

4. 4

   Lower the temperature to 160 °C, return all cooked “popcorn” cubes to the basket and heat for another 2–3 minutes, watching so they don’t burn. Serve immediately—as a snack with your favorite sauce or as a side to the main dish.