Crispy Air Fryer Tofu (Printable Version)
Golden, crunchy tofu cubes with a tender interior, excellent as a snack, appetizer, or protein boost for salads and bowls.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Tofu
01 - 14 ounces firm or extra-firm tofu
→ Marinade
02 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
03 - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
04 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or potato starch)
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
→ Optional Garnish
07 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
08 - 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
# Directions:
01 - Gently press the tofu, wrapped in a clean kitchen towel with a weighted object on top, for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
02 - Slice the pressed tofu into uniform 3/4-inch cubes.
03 - In a sizable mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and black pepper. Introduce the tofu cubes and delicately toss to ensure an even coating.
04 - Dust the marinated tofu with cornstarch and toss once more until uniformly coated.
05 - Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 2 minutes.
06 - Arrange the prepared tofu cubes in a single layer within the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook in multiple batches if needed.
07 - Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tofu achieves a golden and crispy texture.
08 - Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
# Top Tips:
01 -
- You'll be amazed how quickly you can whip up something so genuinely satisfying and flavorful.
- It's a fantastic, healthy way to add protein to almost any meal, transforming a simple salad into a star.
02 -
- Seriously, don’t skimp on pressing the tofu; it makes all the difference between soggy disappointment and truly glorious crunch.
- Overcrowding the air fryer basket is the enemy of crispiness; always cook in batches if you need to, allowing each piece enough hot air to work its magic.
03 -
- For the absolute best results, really take your time with pressing the tofu; the drier it starts, the crispier it becomes.
- If you’re using tamari, make sure to check your other ingredients like soy sauce for any hidden gluten to keep it truly gluten-free.