When I first experimented with tofu in my air fryer, I honestly didn’t expect the results to be this good. The outside turned out perfectly golden and crisp, while the inside stayed tender and flavorful. Pair that with a glossy homemade teriyaki glaze, and you get a dish that’s both comforting and fresh—a balance that keeps me making this recipe on repeat.
I love how easy it is to prepare. The air fryer does most of the heavy lifting, eliminating the need for heavy oils or complicated techniques. Whether you’re plant-based, cutting back on meat, or just in the mood for something savory and satisfying, this air fryer teriyaki tofu is the kind of recipe that delivers flavor and texture without fuss.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Tofu: Extra-firm tofu works best for air frying because it holds its shape and crisps up beautifully. Make sure to press out excess moisture before cooking—it’s the secret to that irresistible golden crust.
Soy Sauce: This is the foundation of the teriyaki glaze, adding rich umami depth. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you want more control over the saltiness.
Brown Sugar: This ingredient balances the savory soy with just the right amount of sweetness, creating that signature teriyaki flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with a bold, aromatic kick that enhances the overall richness of the glaze.
Ginger: A little fresh ginger brings warmth and brightness, cutting through the sweetness of the sauce while adding authentic teriyaki notes.
Rice Vinegar: This splash of acidity helps balance the glaze, preventing it from becoming too heavy or overly sweet.
Cornstarch: Essential for thickening the teriyaki sauce, cornstarch helps create a glossy, clingy texture that coats each tofu cube perfectly.
Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle adds a nutty aroma and depth of flavor that rounds out the sauce.
Green Onions & Sesame Seeds: These are the finishing touches. Green onions bring freshness, while sesame seeds add a little crunch and visual appeal.
Ingredients List
- 14 oz (400 g) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
How to Make Air Fryer Teriyaki Tofu
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel, place something heavy on top, and let it sit for about 20 minutes. Once pressed, cut it into bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Cook the Tofu in the Air Fryer
Place the tofu cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray with cooking oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
While the tofu cooks, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry. Stir until the sauce thickens and turns glossy.
Step 4: Coat the Tofu
Once the tofu is done, transfer it into a large bowl. Pour the warm teriyaki sauce over the crispy cubes and gently toss until every piece is evenly coated.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the glazed tofu. Serve immediately as a main dish with rice, noodles, or alongside roasted vegetables.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Always press the tofu before cooking—it makes a huge difference in crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; airflow is key to achieving that golden texture.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce.
- Double the sauce if you like extra glaze for drizzling over rice or veggies.
- Leftovers reheat best in the air fryer to restore their crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use regular tofu instead of extra-firm?
You can, but firm or extra-firm tofu gives the best results because it holds its shape and crisps up better.
Do I need to marinate the tofu first?
Not for this recipe. The crispy tofu gets tossed in the sauce at the end, which gives it plenty of flavor without extra marinating time.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes—just swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make it gluten-free.
What can I serve with teriyaki tofu?
It pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or noodles.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture.