Step 1: Press the Tofu
Remove tofu from package and drain liquid. Wrap the tofu block in clean kitchen towels or several layers of paper towels. Place on a cutting board and set a heavy object (cast iron skillet, heavy cookbook, or tofu press) on top. Let press for at least 30 minutes to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for crispy nuggets!

Step 2: Cut the Tofu
Once pressed, unwrap the tofu and cut into bite-sized nugget pieces, about 1-inch cubes or rectangular shapes similar to chicken nuggets. Pat each piece dry with paper towels to remove any remaining surface moisture.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Station
Prepare three shallow bowls: In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, pour the plant-based milk. In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix the breadcrumb mixture thoroughly.

Step 4: Coat the Tofu
Working with a few pieces at a time, coat each tofu nugget first in flour (shaking off excess), then dip in plant-based milk (letting excess drip off), and finally press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides completely. Place coated nuggets on a plate. Repeat until all nuggets are coated.

Step 5: Preheat Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

Step 6: Arrange in Air Fryer
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil. Arrange tofu nuggets in a single layer with space between each piece—don’t overcrowd! Lightly spray the tops of the nuggets with olive oil.

Step 7: Air Fry First Batch
Cook at 400°F for 6 minutes, then carefully flip each nugget using tongs. Spray the other side lightly with oil. Cook for an additional 6 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 8: Repeat with Remaining Batches
Remove cooked nuggets to a plate (keep warm in a 200°F oven if desired) and repeat the process with remaining nuggets, working in batches as needed.

Step 9: Serve Immediately
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy the crispiest, most delicious tofu nuggets you’ve ever tasted!