Air Fryer Tofu Parmesan Rounds

Tofu Parmesan Rounds in the Air Fryer

Overview:

Tofu Parmesan rounds are a hearty and flavorful vegan twist on the classic chicken Parmesan. With a crispy breadcrumb coating, marinara sauce, and gooey vegan mozzarella, these tofu rounds are air-fried to perfection. Serve them as a main dish, in a sandwich, or as a topping for pasta for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and sliced into ½-inch rounds

• ½ cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)

• ½ cup vegan mozzarella cheese, shredded

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)

• ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)

• ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• Cooking spray

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• Air fryer

• Tofu press (or a clean kitchen towel and heavy object)

• Mixing bowls (for dredging)

• Spatula or tongs

Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare the Tofu:

   • Press the tofu to remove excess moisture using a tofu press or by wrapping it in a clean towel and placing it under a heavy object for 15 minutes.

   • Slice the tofu into ½-inch thick rounds.

2. Set Up the Coating Station:

   • In one bowl, place the flour.

   • In a second bowl, pour the plant-based milk.

   • In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

3. Coat the Tofu:

   • Dredge each tofu round in the flour, dip it into the plant-based milk, and then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.

Air Frying Steps:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:

   • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.

2. Arrange the Tofu Rounds:

   • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking.

   • Place the tofu rounds in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for airflow.

3. Cook:

   • Air fry the tofu for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each piece.

   • Top each round with a spoonful of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of vegan mozzarella.

   • Continue air frying for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tofu is golden brown.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the tofu rounds over spaghetti or zucchini noodles with extra marinara sauce.

• Use them as a filling for a sandwich or sub roll for a delicious tofu Parmesan sandwich.

• Pair with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Success:

• Crispier Coating: Lightly spray the tofu rounds with cooking oil before air frying for extra crispiness.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free dish.

• Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.

• Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes.

Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~220

• Protein: ~11g

• Carbohydrates: ~18g

• Fat: ~8g

Tofu Parmesan rounds are a crispy, cheesy, and satisfying air fryer recipe that’s perfect for any Italian food lover. They’re simple to make and packed with flavor!