Air Fryer Vegan Popcorn Chicken

Ingredients

• 100 g Dried soy chunks
• 2 cup Boiling water
• 2 tbsp Cornflour (Cornstarch; potato starch may be substituted, though the texture may differ.)
• 2 tbsp Light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Onion powder
• 0.5 tbsp Garlic powder (The source gives ½ tablespoon.)
• 1 tbsp Vegetable stock powder (Use vegan vegetable bouillon or another savory vegetable stock powder.)
• 2 tbsp Vegetable oil (Use for the marinade and spray during cooking.)

Steps

1. 1

   Add the onion powder, garlic powder, and vegetable stock powder to a large heat-safe bowl.

2. 2

   Pour in the boiling water and stir well so the seasonings are distributed throughout the liquid.

3. 3

   Add the dried soy chunks to the seasoned water. Soak for 10 to 15 minutes, or according to the soaking time stated on the package.

4. 4

   Drain the softened soy chunks. Allow them to cool enough to handle, then squeeze them well to remove as much excess water as possible.

5. 5

   Transfer the squeezed soy chunks to a bowl. Add the light soy sauce and vegetable oil, toss thoroughly, and leave to marinate for 10 minutes.

6. 6

   Sprinkle the cornflour over the marinated soy chunks and toss until every piece has a thin coating.

7. 7

   Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (355°F) for 5 minutes.

8. 8

   Arrange the coated soy chunks in a single layer on air-fryer parchment paper. Do not overcrowd the basket.

9. 9

   Air-fry at 180°C (355°F) for 12 to 13 minutes. Spray with oil during cooking, and check and toss or turn the pieces if needed for even browning.

10. 10

    Remove the soy chunks when they are browned and lightly crisp around the edges. Serve immediately with your favorite dip.

Notes

Squeezing the rehydrated soy chunks thoroughly helps the marinade absorb and makes the cornflour coating adhere. Cornflour is called cornstarch in many countries. The source also suggests serving the bites in wraps or bowls, or using them as the base for a saucy soya Manchurian dish.

Nutrition per serving

• snack
• vegan
• vegetarian
• air-fried
• dairy-free
• plant-based
• high-protein
• quick