ObiHomemade Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Recipe
The only reason you thought tofu was bland was because you never bothered to try crispy air fryer tofu like the one I’ll share with you. Since when I was young, I’ve always enjoyed tofu snacks, even while I wasn’t yet vegan. That’s because those tofu snacks were something else, one of such snacks is air fryer tofu, but this time an even improved version. I keep calling it snacks because that is how I see and enjoy air fryer tofu, most people have it as main course meal because it is truly filling and satisfying. It doesn’t matter what you want your air fryer to serve, what matters is that you’re about to be thrilled.
Why Air Fryer?
Though you could cook your tofu with an oven(or even frying with oil) and possibly achieve some form of crispy tofu, but it won’t give the same result as air fryer. Air fryers cook food by circulating hot air all around the food, this helps to create a crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft. This means you can achieve that fried texture with just a small amount of oil, or even none at all if you prefer. Another bonus is speed. Unlike the oven, the air fryer heats up fast and cooks tofu in about 15 to 20 minutes.
Now that we understand why air fryer, let’s get to the recipe steps itself.
Homemade Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Recipe
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Tofu press or clean kitchen towel
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 14 oz 400 g extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp salt this is optional, adjust to taste
Optional add-ons
- 1 tsp maple syrup for sweet-savory tofu
- ½ tsp chili flakes for heat
Instructions
Press the tofu
- Wrap tofu in a clean towel and press for 10 to 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. This helps make it crispy.
Cut and season
- Cut tofu into 1-inch cubes. Add to a mixing bowl with soy sauce, oil, garlic powder, paprika, pepper, and optional maple syrup. Toss gently.
Add cornstarch
- Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu and toss again until evenly coated. This creates a crispy exterior.
Air fry
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- Arrange tofu in a single layer in the basket.
Cook
- Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve
- Taste and add salt if needed. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Obi
