Air Fryer Tofu

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The air fryer crisps tofu perfectly without oil-soaking or frying.

• Healthy: Uses less oil than traditional frying methods, making it a lighter option.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.

• Versatile: Great for snacking, adding to meals, or meal prepping.

• Customizable: Easily seasoned to suit your flavor preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Press the tofu: Remove excess moisture by pressing tofu for at least 15 minutes using a tofu press or by placing between paper towels and applying weight.

2. Cut the tofu: Slice pressed tofu into cubes or rectangles, about 1-inch pieces.

3. Marinate: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss tofu pieces gently to coat evenly.

4. Coat with cornstarch: Sprinkle cornstarch over tofu and toss again until coated evenly; this helps create a crispy crust.

5. Preheat the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

6. Air fry tofu: Place tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through, until tofu is golden and crispy.

7. Serve: Enjoy as a snack, or add to salads, bowls, or your favorite dishes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 3-4

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes pressing tofu)

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Flavor Boosts: Add chili powder, curry powder, or lemon zest to the marinade.

• Sauces: Toss cooked tofu in BBQ sauce, teriyaki, or buffalo sauce for different tastes.

• Coatings: Use nutritional yeast or crushed nuts for extra crunch.

• Tofu Types: Use firm tofu if extra-firm is unavailable, but press longer to remove moisture.

• Oil-Free Option: Skip oil for an oil-free version, but expect a slightly less crispy texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in the air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular tofu instead of extra-firm?

Extra-firm tofu is best for this recipe because it holds its shape and crisps well. If using regular tofu, press it thoroughly to remove moisture.

Do I have to marinate the tofu?

Marinating adds flavor but isn’t mandatory. You can season tofu directly with spices before coating.

Can I freeze cooked air fryer tofu?

Yes, cooked tofu can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw before reheating.

How do I prevent tofu from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly spray or brush the basket with oil, or use a perforated parchment paper liner designed for air fryers.

Can I cook tofu in the air fryer without cornstarch?

Yes, but the tofu won’t be as crispy on the outside.

Is air fryer tofu vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan as long as you use plant-based oil and tamari or soy sauce without fish additives.

Can I use this recipe for baked tofu?

Yes, baking at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes will produce similar results but without the air fryer’s crispiness.

How do I make tofu less bitter?

Press tofu well and rinse if desired before cooking to reduce bitterness.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but cook tofu in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

What dishes go well with air fryer tofu?

It’s great in salads, rice bowls, stir-fries, wraps, or simply as a protein-packed snack.

Conclusion

Air fryer tofu is a delicious and easy way to enjoy crispy, flavorful tofu without the hassle of deep frying. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet, whether as a main protein or a tasty addition to other dishes. With its quick prep and versatile nature, air fryer tofu is sure to become a kitchen favorite.

Air Fryer Tofu

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

Crispy, flavorful air fryer tofu made in just 10 minutes with minimal oil. Perfect as a protein-packed addition to salads, stir-fries, or grain bowls, this easy recipe is great for quick, healthy meals.

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Ingredients

1 (14 oz) block extra-firm or firm tofu

2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)

1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar

1 teaspoon sesame oil (or olive/vegetable oil)

1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot starch)

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Instructions

1. Wrap the tofu in paper towels and press out excess moisture by placing a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes.
2. Cut the pressed tofu into cubes and place them in a large bowl.
3. Drizzle soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil over the tofu; toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu and toss again to coat all pieces.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer without overcrowding. Air fry for 10–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until tofu is golden and crispy.

Notes

• Pressing tofu is essential for crispiness; use paper towels and a heavy object if you don’t have a tofu press.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure tofu crisps evenly. Cook in batches if needed.
• Customize the marinade by adding maple syrup, sriracha, garlic, or herbs for different flavors.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired