Air Fryer Crispy Tofu

With the rapid rise in health consciousness and the quest for convenient cooking methods, air fryers have emerged as a game-changer in modern kitchens. This innovative appliance allows home cooks to achieve that coveted crispy texture without the excess oil typically required for frying. Among the many dishes that benefit from this technology is the delightful Air Fryer Crispy Tofu Delight. This recipe is not only appealing to vegetarians but also to anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based options into their diet.

Discover the joy of plant-based cooking with this Air Fryer Crispy Tofu Delight! Perfect for both seasoned chefs and beginners, this recipe transforms firm or extra-firm tofu into a crunchy, flavor-packed dish without the extra oil. With a simple marinade of soy sauce, spices, and a cornstarch coating, you'll achieve a golden-brown finish that's ideal for salads, grain bowls, or tacos. Enjoy a healthier, delicious way to incorporate tofu into your meals today!

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Ingredients

1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed

3 tablespoons cornstarch

2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

Optional: chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

Press the Tofu: First, wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top (like a cast iron skillet) to press out excess moisture. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.

Prepare the Coating: In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until it forms a smooth paste.

Cut the Tofu: Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or wedges, depending on your preference.

Coat the Tofu: Add the tofu pieces to the bowl with the coating mixture. Gently toss until all pieces are evenly coated.

Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

Arrange Tofu in Air Fryer: Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil. Then, arrange the coated tofu cubes in a single layer, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. You may need to do this in batches.

Air Fry the Tofu: Cook the tofu in the air fryer for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The tofu should be golden and crispy on the outside.

Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the tofu from the air fryer. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if using. Serve immediately as a snack, in a salad, or with rice and veggies!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4