If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious plant-based dish, air fryer tofu is the answer. This crispy, golden treat is packed with flavor and makes for an excellent snack or main course. I love how versatile tofu can be, and with the help of an air fryer, it’s cooked to perfection every time—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside. If you’ve never tried air fryer tofu before, you’re in for a real treat! It’s a perfect addition to salads, bowls, or even on its own as a protein-packed snack.
I’ve been experimenting with tofu for years, but the air fryer method has completely changed the game. It’s so easy to prepare, and you don’t have to worry about deep-frying, which can make things a bit messy. With a few simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a crispy, flavorful dish that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Firm Tofu: Tofu is the star of this recipe, and for the best texture, you’ll want to use firm tofu. Firm tofu holds up well in the air fryer, becoming crispy on the outside while maintaining a soft, tender texture inside. Make sure to press out excess water to ensure the tofu crisps up properly.
Olive Oil: A small amount of olive oil helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior. Olive oil also adds a subtle richness and enhances the flavor of the tofu. Feel free to use another oil like avocado or sesame oil if you prefer.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory, umami flavor that complements the tofu perfectly. It gives the tofu a depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste. You can use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
Cornstarch: Cornstarch is key to achieving that super crispy exterior. It coats the tofu and creates a light, crunchy crust when air-fried. Don’t skip this step!
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder brings in a lovely savory note to the tofu. It pairs wonderfully with the soy sauce and gives the tofu an extra burst of flavor.
Ground Black Pepper: A pinch of black pepper adds a subtle kick to the tofu. It balances out the richness of the soy sauce and enhances the overall flavor.
Ingredients list
- 1 block of firm tofu
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
How to Make Air Fryer Tofu
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Place the block of tofu between two paper towels or clean kitchen towels, and put a heavy object on top to press out the water. This step is crucial for getting that crispy texture. After about 10 minutes, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or strips, depending on your preference.
Step 2: Marinate the Tofu
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well to mix the ingredients. Add the tofu cubes and gently toss them to coat with the marinade. Let the tofu marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Coat with Cornstarch
Once the tofu is well marinated, sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu. Gently toss the tofu until it’s evenly coated with the cornstarch. This is what will give the tofu that crispy, golden crust when cooked in the air fryer.
Step 4: Air Fry the Tofu
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring that the pieces aren’t crowded together. This will help them cook evenly. Air fry the tofu for about 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure all sides get crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the tofu is golden and crispy, remove it from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can enjoy it on its own or add it to a salad, grain bowl, or stir-fry.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Pressing the tofu is crucial for achieving crispy air fryer tofu. Be patient and press out as much moisture as possible.
- For even crispier tofu, try tossing the tofu halfway through the cooking process.
- If you want to add extra flavor, feel free to experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or chili powder.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket—giving the tofu enough space will allow the hot air to circulate and crisp up the tofu more evenly.
- For a fun twist, drizzle your cooked tofu with a bit of sweet chili sauce or sesame seeds.
FAQs
Can I use extra-firm tofu instead of firm tofu? Yes, extra-firm tofu can work as well! Just make sure to press it to remove as much moisture as possible before cooking.
How long will leftover air fryer tofu last? Leftover tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to get the crispiness back.
Can I make this recipe without soy sauce? Yes, you can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free option.
What can I serve with air fryer tofu? Air fryer tofu pairs well with rice, noodles, salads, or roasted vegetables. It’s also great as a topping for grain bowls or in a wrap!