Air fryers have become a staple in many kitchens, and for good reason. Not only do they allow for quick and easy cooking, but they also provide a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
For vegans, air fryers are a game-changer as they allow for crispy, flavorful results without the need for oil. Some of the best vegan air fryer recipes include: sweet potato fries, cauliflower “wings”, tofu, falafel, and veggies.
Also, you can try vegan “meat” alternatives such as chicken nuggets and fish fillets. Experiment with different seasonings, marinades, and sauces to find your favorite. These recipes are not only delicious, but also healthy and easy to make.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best vegan air fryer recipes that are easy to make and sure to satisfy your cravings.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Let’s start with air fryer sweet potato fries. These are a classic vegan favorite and are incredibly easy to make.
- Simply cut sweet potatoes into fries.
- Toss with a bit of oil and your favorite seasonings (such as garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper)
- Air fry at 375 degrees for 15–20 minutes.
- You’ll have crispy, delicious fries that are much healthier than their deep-fried counterparts.
Air Fryer Cauliflower “Wings”
Another popular vegan air fryer recipe is air fryer cauliflower “wings”. These are a great vegan alternative to traditional chicken wings and are just as satisfying.
- Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets
- Toss with a vegan “wing” sauce (such as a mixture of hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and vegan butter)
- Air fry at 400 degrees for 20–25 minutes.
- The result is a crispy, flavorful dish that is sure to be a hit with vegans and non-vegans alike.
Air Fryer Tofu
For those looking for a protein-packed vegan air fryer recipe, air fryer tofu is a great option.
- Pressing the tofu before cooking is crucial to remove excess water and make sure the tofu is crispy.
- Cut tofu into cubes, marinate in a mixture of soy sauce, maple syrup, and your choice of seasonings (such as ginger, garlic, and sesame oil) for at least 15 minutes
- Air fry at 400 degrees for 15–20 minutes.
- The tofu will come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making it a great addition to bowls, salads, or sandwiches.
Air Fryer Falafel
Another vegan air fryer recipe that is easy to make and perfect for meal prep is air fryer falafel.
- To make this recipe you need to mix together chickpeas, herbs, and spices to form a dough, shape into balls.
- Air fry at 375 degrees for 15–20 minutes.
- These are a perfect vegan alternative to traditional deep-fried falafel and can be enjoyed on their own or as a topping for salads or sandwiches.
Air Fryer Veggies
Air fryer veggies are also a great option for vegans. This is a versatile recipe that can be customized to your liking.
- Toss your favorite veggies (such as broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini) with a bit of oil and your choice of seasonings (such as dried herbs or nutritional yeast)
- Air fry at 400 degrees for 10–15 minutes.
- This is a simple and easy way to make healthy and delicious side dishes that are perfect for any vegan meal.
Vegan “Meat” Alternatives
Air fryers are also great for cooking up vegan “meat” alternatives such as vegan chicken nuggets, vegan chicken tenders, and vegan fish fillets.
- Simply prepare the vegan meat alternatives according to the package instructions
- Coat them with a mixture of breadcrumbs and seasonings
- Air fry at 400 degrees for 10–15 minutes.
- These are great options for those who miss the taste of meat and want a vegan alternative that is similar in taste and texture.
Benefits of a Vegan Diet
There are many benefits to following a vegan diet for health, environmental and ethical reasons. Some main benefits include:
- Weight loss: Plant-based diets are typically lower in calories and fat, which can lead to weight loss.
- Lower risk of chronic diseases: Studies have shown that vegans have a lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
- Increased nutrient intake: Vegan diets are often high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can improve overall health.
- Environmental benefits: Veganism can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserve resources such as water and land.
- Ethical benefits: Veganism is a way to avoid supporting industries that exploit animals for food, clothing, and other products.
For any diet, you should make sure you are getting all the necessary nutrients, particularly B12 and Omega-3, which can only be found in animal-based foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers about using an air fryer for the first time:
Q: What are some popular vegan air fryer recipes?
A: Some popular vegan air fryer recipes include sweet potato fries, cauliflower “wings”, tofu, falafel, and veggies. Vegan “meat” alternatives such as chicken nuggets and fish fillets are also a great option.
Q: Can I make my own seasoning for air fryer recipes?
A: Yes, you can make your own seasoning for air fryer recipes. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and dry rubs to create your own unique flavors.
Q: Can I cook frozen foods in an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can cook frozen foods in an air fryer. Simply adjust the cooking time and temperature according to the instructions on the package.
Q: Can I cook multiple items at once in an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can cook multiple items at once in an air fryer, but it’s important to make sure they are all similar in size and shape, so they cook evenly.
Q: Can I use oil in air fryer recipes?
A: While oil is not necessary in air fryer recipes, it can be used to add extra flavor and crispiness to your dishes. It’s best to use a small amount of oil and spray it on the food instead of tossing it to avoid creating too much smoke.
Q: Are air fryer recipes healthy for a vegan diet?
A: Air fryer recipes can be a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, as they allow for crispy and flavorful dishes without the need for oil. However, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients and seasonings you’re using and to make sure you’re getting all the necessary nutrients.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, air fryers are an excellent tool for vegans who want to cook up crispy and flavorful dishes without the need for oil. The above vegan air fryer recipes are just a few examples of what you can make, but the possibilities are endless. Experiment with different combinations of veggies, seasonings, sauces, and meat alternatives to find your favorite. Not only you’ll be able to cook delicious meals, you’ll also be able to do it in a healthier way.
