Air Fried Tofu Recipe

Introduction

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this air fried tofu recipe is a quick and healthy way to enjoy plant-based protein. Perfect for snacks, salads, or stir-fries, it’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• 12 oz block extra firm tofu (350 g)
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 2 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Press the tofu by sandwiching it between paper towels and two plates. Place a heavy object, such as a 28 oz can, on the top plate. Press for 30 minutes or more to remove excess moisture.
2. Step 2: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F).
3. Step 3: Cut the pressed tofu into 1/2 inch or 3/4 inch cubes.
4. Step 4: Toss the tofu cubes in avocado oil until well coated, then sprinkle with cornstarch and toss again to cover evenly.
5. Step 5: Combine paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Toss the tofu in these spices to coat thoroughly, then place the cubes in the air fryer basket.
6. Step 6: Cook for 13 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to ensure even crisping. Adjust cooking time to your preferred level of crispiness.
7. Step 7: The tofu is done when the outside feels firm and crispy, while the inside remains soft. Note that it will firm up a bit more as it cools.
8. Step 8: Serve immediately and enjoy your deliciously crispy air fried tofu!

Tips & Variations

• Pressing tofu well is key for crispiness. If short on time, use a tofu press for faster results.
• Swap avocado oil for sesame oil to add a nutty flavor.
• Try adding chili powder or cayenne pepper if you like heat.
• For extra crunch, toss tofu in panko breadcrumbs after the cornstarch coating.

Storage

Store any leftover air fried tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 3–5 minutes to regain crispiness, or warm gently in a skillet.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular tofu instead of extra firm?

Extra firm tofu works best for air frying because it holds its shape and crisps well. Regular or soft tofu contains more moisture and may fall apart or become mushy.

Do I need to marinate the tofu before air frying?

Marinating is optional. The seasoning blend in this recipe adds plenty of flavor, but you can marinate tofu beforehand if you want a stronger taste.

Air Fried Tofu Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 100 reviews

This Air Fried Tofu recipe yields perfectly crispy tofu cubes with a flavorful seasoning blend. Using an air fryer, the tofu gets a firm, golden exterior while maintaining a soft interior, making it a delicious and healthy plant-based protein option that’s quick and easy to prepare.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 13 minutes
• Total Time: 53 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Vegetarian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Tofu

• 12 oz block extra firm tofu (350 g)

For the Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Press Tofu: Sandwich the block of tofu between paper towels and place two plates on either side. Put a heavy object, such as a 28 oz can, on top of the upper plate to press down. Let it press for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispiness.
2. Preheat Air Fryer: Heat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) to ensure it’s ready for cooking when the tofu is prepared.
3. Cut Tofu: After pressing, cut the tofu into cubes about 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch in size for even cooking.
4. Coat with Oil and Cornstarch: Toss the tofu cubes in 1 tablespoon of avocado oil to coat them evenly, then toss in 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, which helps create a crispy texture when cooked.
5. Season Tofu: Mix the tofu cubes with paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated with the spice blend.
6. Air Fry Tofu: Place the seasoned tofu pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 13 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to allow even cooking and browning.
7. Check Texture: The tofu should be firm on the outside but remain soft inside. It will harden slightly as it cools, so serve promptly for the best texture.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy your crispy, flavorful tofu immediately, perfect as a snack, salad topping, or protein addition to your meal.

Notes

• Pressing the tofu thoroughly is key to achieving a crispy exterior.
• Use avocado oil for its high smoke point and mild flavor; other neutral oils can be substituted if necessary.
• Shaking the air fryer basket during cooking promotes even crisping and browning.
• This tofu pairs well with dipping sauces or as a topping for grain bowls and salads.

Keywords: air fried tofu, crispy tofu recipe, vegetarian snack, healthy tofu, air fryer recipes, plant-based protein