Description
Crispy Air Fryer Tofu is a delicious and healthy plant-based snack or meal addition, featuring firm tofu marinated with savory spices and air-fried to golden perfection. This recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy crispy tofu without deep frying, perfect for adding to salads, rice bowls, or enjoying on its own.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu
- 1 block firm tofu
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
- Salt to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Press the tofu: Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top for about 10-15 minutes to ensure it becomes firm and ready for crisping.
- Prepare the tofu: Once pressed, cut the tofu into approximately 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking in the air fryer.
- Marinate the tofu: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and rice vinegar (if using). Toss the tofu cubes gently in the marinade until well-coated. Allow them to sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat so the tofu cooks evenly from the start.
- Air fry the tofu: Arrange the marinated tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure all sides become golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the tofu from the air fryer once crispy and golden. Serve hot as a snack, in salads, or alongside rice and vegetables for a tasty meal.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu is essential to achieving a crispy texture by removing excess water.
- You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Adjust the seasoning or add chili powder for a spicy kick.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the tofu in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch if preferred.
