Air Fried Vegan Fish Sticks That’ll Fool Even a Mermaid

Why “Fish” When You Can Go Vegan?

Alright, confession time—I never liked fish. Not even a little. This all started when six-year-old me watched The Little Mermaid and decided Flounder was too cute to be anyone’s dinner. But here’s the twist: I’m obsessed with fish and chips. Not the fish part, but the crispy batter, the fries, and the glory of drizzling malt vinegar all over everything.

Recently, during a trip to Tijuana, I stumbled on the vegan version of “fish” and chips that blew my mind. Crunchy, flaky, and oh-so-satisfying. I immediately ran home to my trusty air fryer to recreate this magic. Spoiler: I nailed it. Grab your apron because we’re diving in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the “Fish” Sticks

• 1 package extra firm tofu
• 2 sheets of nori (seaweed for that “fishy” vibe)
• 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
• ½ cup almond milk
• ½ lemon, juiced
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ tsp dill
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp sea salt
• A few grinds of pepper

For the Beer Batter

• 1 bottle gluten-free beer (any light beer works)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup gluten-free flour
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp dill
• ½ tsp paprika
• A few grinds of pepper

For the Tartar Sauce

• 1 package silken tofu
• 2 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tsp mustard
• ½ lemon, juiced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp dill
• A few grinds of pepper
• 1 tbsp relish

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Let’s Make Some Magic: Air Fried Vegan “Fish” Sticks

Step 1: Prepping the Tofu

Start by slicing your tofu lengthwise into 8 long rectangles—these will be your “fish” sticks.

In a large bowl, mix:

• Almond milk
• Lemon juice
• Apple cider vinegar
• Garlic
• Dill
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper

This marinade? It’s where tofu dreams come true. Drop your tofu sticks in, toss to coat, and let them marinate while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Batter Up

In another bowl, mix the dry batter ingredients:

• Flour, salt, baking soda, dill, paprika, and pepper.

Slowly pour in the beer and apple cider vinegar. Whisk it together until it’s smooth, light, and bubbly—just like good beer batter should be.

Step 3: The Nori Wrap

Nori is the game-changer here—it brings that subtle, ocean-y taste without a fish in sight. Cut your nori sheets into 8 squares. Take each tofu stick, wrap it in a square of nori (press gently, the moisture will make it stick), and get ready for the fun part.

Step 4: Coat & Air Fry

Here’s where it gets crunchy:

1. Dip the nori-wrapped tofu into the beer batter.
2. Roll it around in your gluten-free breadcrumbs.
3. Place those beauties into a lightly greased air fryer basket.

Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. When they’re golden, crispy, and making your kitchen smell like a pub (minus the fishy smell), they’re done.

Step 5: Tartar Sauce Perfection

While the “fish” sticks are frying, let’s whip up a tangy, creamy vegan tartar sauce:

• Blend the silken tofu, apple cider vinegar, mustard, lemon juice, salt, dill, and pepper until smooth.
• Stir in a tablespoon of relish for that classic bite.

Pop it in the fridge to chill until you’re ready to serve.

Time to Feast

Now, plate up your golden vegan “fish” sticks with a side of air-fried fries (because why not?), and drizzle everything with malt vinegar—if gluten’s a no-go, apple cider vinegar works like a charm.

You’ll get that crispy, salty, tangy goodness you know and love without hurting Flounder or your waistline. These “fish” sticks are packed with protein from tofu, loaded with flavor, and light on grease thanks to the air fryer.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Air-Fried Vegan “Fish” Sticks

h3: Don’t Skip the Nori

It’s the secret ingredient that gives these sticks their ocean-inspired flair. No nori? No worries—your sticks will still taste amazing.

h3: Beer Batter = Extra Crunch

Even if you’re not a beer fan, don’t skip it. The carbonation creates a light, airy batter that crisps up beautifully. Use a gluten-free beer to keep things allergy-friendly.

h3: Get Creative with Toppings

Classic tartar sauce is just the start. Add fresh dill, a squeeze of lemon, or spicy vegan mayo for a little kick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. It’s Comfort Food Without the Guilt
   Traditional fish and chips can leave you feeling heavy. These air-fried beauties? Crispy, light, and oh-so-satisfying.
2. Perfect for Everyone
   Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just tofu-curious, this recipe hits all the right notes.
3. Kid-Friendly and Fun
   Even picky eaters won’t miss the fish—especially when you serve these with fries and a dip fest.
4. Fast, Easy, and Foolproof
   The air fryer does the heavy lifting. No deep frying. No mess. Just crunchy perfection in 20 minutes flat.

Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Vegan Comfort Food

These air-fried vegan “fish” sticks are proof that you can have it all—crunch, flavor, and nostalgia—without the fish. So whether you’re channeling your inner mermaid or just craving something crispy and satisfying, this recipe is a total win.

Serve them up, drizzle with vinegar, and don’t forget a big ol’ side of fries. Trust me, you’ll be making these on repeat.

Happy frying, my friends!