Air-Fryer Tofu
If you’re searching for a quick and delicious way to prepare tofu, look no further than this Air-Fryer Tofu recipe. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re adding it to a salad, wrapping it in a tortilla, or serving it over rice, air-fried tofu can elevate any meal. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a satisfying, plant-based protein ready to enjoy. Let’s dive into the details!
Why It Works Every Time
The magic of Air-Fryer Tofu lies in the combination of marinating the tofu and using cornstarch to create that coveted crispy texture. By using extra-firm tofu, you’re ensuring that it holds its shape during cooking. The air fryer circulates hot air around the tofu, giving it that golden-brown finish without the need for excessive oil. Plus, the flavors from the marinade seep into the tofu, making every bite a burst of deliciousness.
Gather These Ingredients
To whip up this Air-Fryer Tofu, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:
- 1 block extra-firm tofu (14-ounces)
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 2 1/2 teaspoons seasoned rice vinegar
- 3/4 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The soy sauce or tamari adds a savory depth, while the rice vinegar and sesame oil provide a hint of tanginess and richness.
Recommended Tools
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools handy:
- Air Fryer: This is the star of the show! It cooks the tofu evenly and crisps it up beautifully.
- Cutting Board: Essential for cutting and pressing the tofu.
- Paper Towels or Clean Kitchen Towel: Used for pressing excess moisture from the tofu.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the marinade ingredients.
- Spatula or Tongs: To flip the tofu pieces while cooking.
With these tools, your Air-Fryer Tofu journey will be smooth and enjoyable!
Air-Fryer Tofu Cooking Guide
Now that you have everything set, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for perfectly air-fried tofu.
Step 1: Press the Tofu
Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the block of tofu in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel, then place something heavy on top, like a cast-iron skillet. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Cut the Tofu
Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or triangles, depending on your preference. This helps the tofu absorb the marinade and cook evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce or tamari, seasoned rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, and onion powder. This aromatic mixture is what will infuse the tofu with flavor.
Step 4: Marinate the Tofu
Add the tofu cubes to the bowl of marinade. Gently toss to ensure that each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. For even more flavor, you can let it sit longer or cover it and refrigerate for up to an hour.
Step 5: Coat with Cornstarch
After marinating, sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu. Toss gently to coat each piece. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior.
Step 6: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your tofu starts cooking immediately when placed inside.
Step 7: Air-Fry the Tofu
Place the tofu cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches if they don’t all fit. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking. The tofu should be golden brown and crispy.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, remove the tofu from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it as is, or toss it into your favorite stir-fry, salad, or grain bowl.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
If you’re missing an ingredient or looking to customize your Air-Fryer Tofu, consider these easy swaps:
- Replace low-sodium soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free version.
- Use apple cider vinegar instead of seasoned rice vinegar if that’s what you have on hand.
- Swap sesame oil for olive oil or avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
- Try other spices like smoked paprika or curry powder instead of garlic and onion powder for a unique twist.
Steer Clear of These
While making Air-Fryer Tofu is straightforward, there are a few things to avoid for the best results:
- Do not skip pressing the tofu — it’s essential for achieving the right texture.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; this can lead to uneven cooking.
- Don’t marinate for too long if using a strong soy sauce, as it can become overly salty.
- Steer clear of using soft or silken tofu, as it won’t hold up well during cooking.
Prep Ahead & Store
This Air-Fryer Tofu is perfect for meal prep! Here are some tips for making it ahead of time:
You can press and marinate the tofu a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Once cooked, air-fried tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain its crispiness.
Popular Questions
Can I use a different type of tofu?
While this recipe is best with extra-firm tofu, you can experiment with firm tofu. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.
How do I make my tofu extra crispy?
Make sure to press your tofu well and coat it evenly with cornstarch before air frying. Cooking in a single layer without overcrowding also helps achieve maximum crispiness.
Can I add other spices to the marinade?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices and herbs. Adding a bit of chili powder or fresh ginger can give it a nice kick!
What can I serve with Air-Fryer Tofu?
This tofu pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also toss it into salads, wraps, or enjoy it as a standalone snack with a dipping sauce.
More from the Kitchen
If you love this Air-Fryer Tofu, you might also enjoy:
Bring It to the Table
Now that you’ve mastered the art of Air-Fryer Tofu, it’s time to share your creation with friends and family. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout option for any meal. So go ahead, fire up that air fryer, and enjoy the wonderful world of crispy, flavorful tofu!
Air-Fryer Tofu
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Press the Tofu. Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the block of tofu in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel, then place something heavy on top, like a cast-iron skillet. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.
- Step 2: Cut the Tofu. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or triangles, depending on your preference.
- Step 3: Prepare the Marinade. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce or tamari, seasoned rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Step 4: Marinate the Tofu. Add the tofu cubes to the bowl of marinade. Gently toss to ensure that each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Step 5: Coat with Cornstarch. After marinating, sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu. Toss gently to coat each piece.
- Step 6: Preheat the Air Fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 7: Air-Fry the Tofu. Place the tofu cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Step 8: Serve and Enjoy! Once done, remove the tofu from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Press tofu well to achieve the right texture.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer for even cooking.
- Store cooked tofu in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
