I’ve always been on the hunt for that perfect balance between healthy and satisfying, and tofu has been one of my favorite ingredients to experiment with. At first, I wasn’t quite sure how to get it flavorful and crunchy without frying it in a ton of oil. Then, the air fryer changed the game. Suddenly, those golden, crisp-edged tofu bites that seemed impossible at home became my go-to snack and protein boost for salads, rice bowls, and even wraps.
What I love most about this recipe is how simple it feels. With just a handful of pantry staples, tofu transforms into something downright addictive. The exterior develops a beautiful crunch while the inside stays tender. Plus, it’s versatile enough to soak up any flavor you throw at it—spicy, garlicky, tangy, or even sweet. If you’ve ever doubted tofu’s potential, this recipe might just win you over.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Extra-Firm Tofu: This type of tofu holds its shape best and is key for that satisfying crunch. Softer varieties tend to break apart, while extra-firm allows the edges to crisp nicely without becoming mushy.
Soy Sauce or Tamari: A splash of soy sauce infuses the tofu with umami depth and a touch of saltiness. If you’re gluten-free, tamari is a great substitute with the same rich flavor.
Cornstarch: This is the secret to a golden, crunchy coating. Cornstarch clings to the tofu, creating that irresistible crispiness when it hits the hot air fryer.
Olive Oil (or another neutral oil): A light drizzle of oil helps the tofu develop its golden exterior. You don’t need much—just enough to enhance the crispiness without making it greasy.
Garlic Powder: A simple seasoning that brings a warm, savory flavor to each bite. It pairs beautifully with tofu’s mild taste and adds a little extra kick.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper brings balance and just a subtle hint of spice, keeping the flavors vibrant without overpowering.
Ingredients List
- 14 oz (1 block) extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or neutral oil)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Air Fryer Crispy Tofu
Step 1: Press the Tofu
Remove the tofu from its package, drain it, and press it for about 15–20 minutes to get rid of excess moisture. This step ensures the tofu can absorb the marinade and crisp up properly.
Step 2: Cut and Season
Slice the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes. Place them in a bowl and drizzle with soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Gently toss so that each cube gets coated evenly.
Step 3: Coat with Cornstarch
Sprinkle the cornstarch over the seasoned tofu and mix again. Make sure all sides get a light coating—this is what helps achieve that signature crunch.
Step 4: Add Oil
Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the tofu and give it one final toss. This helps the tofu turn golden while keeping it from drying out in the air fryer.
Step 5: Air Fry
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer inside the basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tofu is crisp and golden.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Always press the tofu—skipping this step will leave it soggy.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; space between the cubes ensures even crisping.
- For extra flavor, marinate the tofu longer before adding the cornstarch.
- Experiment with spices: smoked paprika, chili powder, or even curry powder add unique twists.
- Serve immediately for the best texture—crispy tofu tends to soften as it cools.
- Double the batch if you want leftovers; crispy tofu is perfect for stir-fries, bowls, or even sandwiches.
FAQs
Can I use firm tofu instead of extra-firm?
Yes, but it won’t be quite as crispy. Extra-firm tofu gives the best results because it holds its shape well.
Do I have to press the tofu?
Pressing is essential. Removing excess water ensures the tofu can absorb the seasoning and crisp properly in the air fryer.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
You can use arrowroot starch or even potato starch as an alternative. They’ll give you a similar crispy texture.
Can I reheat crispy tofu?
Yes! The air fryer is the best method—reheat for about 5 minutes at 350°F until warmed through and crispy again.
How can I serve crispy tofu?
It’s great on top of salads, tossed into noodle dishes, added to rice bowls, or enjoyed as a crunchy snack with your favorite dipping sauce.