Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu
Tofu lovers, rejoice! If you’re searching for a delightful and crispy dish to elevate your weeknight dinners, look no further than this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu. With its golden-brown exterior and perfectly tender inside, this recipe is all about balance—the crispiness of air-fried tofu meets the sweet, spicy notes of chili sauce. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or a cozy dinner.
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a nutritious choice, offering plant-based protein that’s perfect for both vegetarians and those looking to reduce their meat consumption. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and see what sets it apart from the rest!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu shines for several reasons. First, the use of extra-firm tofu ensures that you achieve a satisfying crunch without compromising on texture. The air fryer provides a healthier alternative to deep frying, cutting down on excess oil while still delivering that coveted crispiness. The sweet chili sauce, combined with garlic and ginger, creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the dish to new heights. Whether served over rice, in a salad, or enjoyed as a snack, this recipe is sure to impress.
Gather These Ingredients
Before we get started, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 1 block extra-firm tofu
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
Having everything prepped will help streamline your cooking process and ensure a stress-free experience.
Cook’s Kit
The right tools will make your cooking journey much easier. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Air fryer: The star of this recipe, perfect for achieving that delightful crisp.
- Mixing bowls: For combining your sauces and marinating the tofu.
- Silicone spatula: Ideal for tossing the tofu without breaking it.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for prepping your ingredients.
- Paper towels: For pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture.
With your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get cooking!
Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing the extra-firm tofu. Wrap it in paper towels and place a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
Step 2: Season and Coat the Tofu
In a mixing bowl, combine the avocado oil, 1 tablespoon of low-sodium soy sauce, and the cubed tofu. Gently toss to coat. In another bowl, add the cornstarch and toss the tofu cubes until they are evenly coated.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crisp on your tofu.
Step 4: Air Fry the Tofu
Place the coated tofu cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The tofu should be golden and crispy when done.
Step 5: Prepare the Sweet Chili Sauce
While the tofu is air frying, mix together the sweet chili sauce, grated garlic, 3 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, water, grated ginger, sesame oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch in a small bowl. Stir until well combined.
Step 6: Glaze the Tofu
Once the tofu is cooked, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Pour the sweet chili mixture over the hot tofu and gently toss to coat. The heat from the tofu will help thicken the sauce slightly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu warm, garnished with sesame seeds or green onions if desired. It pairs beautifully with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Smart Substitutions
Feeling adventurous or have specific dietary needs? Here are some substitutions to consider:
- Tofu: Try tempeh or seitan for a different texture.
- Avocado oil: Can be replaced with olive oil or another neutral oil.
- Sweet chili sauce: Use homemade or substitute with a mix of honey and sriracha for a DIY version.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos work well for gluten-free options.
These substitutions can help tailor the recipe to your taste or dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Avoid These Traps
Cooking can be tricky! Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making your Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu:
- Skipping the pressing step: Removing moisture is key to achieving crispy tofu.
- Overcrowding the air fryer: Give your tofu space to cook evenly. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Not preheating the air fryer: Preheating helps achieve that perfect crunch.
- Using too much sauce: A little goes a long way! Too much can make the tofu soggy.
By steering clear of these mistakes, you’ll set yourself up for success.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
If you want to save time during busy weeknights, this recipe is great for meal prep. Here are some tips for making ahead:
- Press and cube the tofu up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the sweet chili sauce ahead of time and store it separately. It will keep well in the fridge for about a week.
- Cooked tofu can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispiness.
With these tips, you can enjoy your Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu whenever the craving strikes.
Ask & Learn
Can I use firm tofu instead of extra-firm?
While you can use firm tofu, it may not hold its shape as well and could turn out a bit softer. Extra-firm tofu is recommended for the best texture.
What can I serve with this tofu?
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh vegetable stir-fry. It’s also delicious in wraps or salads!
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! All of the ingredients in this recipe are plant-based, making it a perfect vegan option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.
Cook This Next
If you love this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu, you might enjoy these recipes next:
- Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
- Air Fryer Vegetable Spring Rolls
- Maple Soy Glazed Air Fryer Cauliflower
- Air Fryer Teriyaki Chickpeas
Each of these dishes brings its own unique flavor and can complement your tofu perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu is not only a delicious meal option but also a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. Enjoy the crispy texture, the sweet and spicy flavors, and the satisfaction of a healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So grab your air fryer and get ready to impress your taste buds—happy cooking!
Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by pressing the extra-firm tofu. Wrap it in paper towels and place a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the avocado oil, 1 tablespoon of low-sodium soy sauce, and the cubed tofu. Gently toss to coat. In another bowl, add the cornstarch and toss the tofu cubes until they are evenly coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crisp on your tofu.
- Place the coated tofu cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The tofu should be golden and crispy when done.
- While the tofu is air frying, mix together the sweet chili sauce, grated garlic, 3 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, water, grated ginger, sesame oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch in a small bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Once the tofu is cooked, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Pour the sweet chili mixture over the hot tofu and gently toss to coat. The heat from the tofu will help thicken the sauce slightly.
- Serve your Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu warm, garnished with sesame seeds or green onions if desired. It pairs beautifully with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; cook in batches if necessary.
- Store cooked tofu in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat to retain crispiness.
