For those who’ve ever struggled to get your tofu crispy with out frying it in a ton of oil, this one’s for you! This air fryer tofu recipe is one in every of my favourite protein-packed, budget-friendly meals. It’s fast, hands-off, and seems golden and crispy each single tim
Whether or not you are vegetarian, plant-curious, or simply attempting to combine issues up, it is a complete game-changer.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy with out frying – No extra soggy tofu! The air fryer offers it an ideal golden crust with minimal oil.
- Excessive in protein – Nice plant-based choice to gas you thru the week.
- Price range-friendly – One block of tofu makes a number of servings and prices lower than $2.
- Endlessly customizable – You’ll be able to season it nonetheless you want—spicy, savory, candy and sticky… go wild.
- Meal prep win – Make a batch and toss it in bowls, salads, stir-fries, or wraps all week lengthy. I like to show it into a fast stir fry with these 90 second microwave rice packets sort of like this Air Fryer Veggie Stir Fry with Tofu or Air Fryer Stir Fry
Elements Wanted for Air Fryer Tofu
- 1 block extra-firm tofu – Pressed for not less than 15–half-hour
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari – For that savory base taste
- ½ tablespoon sesame oil – Non-obligatory, however provides richness and a toasty taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Or onion powder should you favor
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – That is the key to that golden crispy texture
- Non-obligatory: chili flakes, smoked paprika, hoisin, or maple syrup – Taste it your method!
💡 Professional Tip : You’ll be able to skip sesame oil should you’re avoiding added oils—simply use a splash of low-sodium soy sauce and enhance the cornstarch a bit to compensate.
Serving Options
This crispy air fryer tofu is extremely versatile! Listed here are a few of my favourite methods to make use of it:
- Toss right into a grain bowl with rice, avocado, cucumber, and spicy mayo
- Serve it with this Chinese language Peanut Sauce over rice.
- Stir right into a these Air Fryer Frozen Greens and have it over rice.
- Wrap it in a tortilla with slaw and peanut sauce
- Snack on it straight from the basket—no judgment right here!
Diet Data for Air Fryer Tofu
Primarily based on ¼ block of tofu per serving (made with soy sauce and ½ tablespoon sesame oil complete):
- Energy: 130
- Protein: 11g
- Fats: 7g
- Carbs: 5g
- WW Factors: Roughly 1–3 factors relying on model of tofu and whether or not oil is used
💡 Utilizing oil-free spray or skipping the sesame oil can decrease the factors even additional. I often use Lightlife or Aldi’s extra-firm tofu to maintain it reasonably priced and WW-friendly.
Recipe FAQS
Sure! You’ll be able to skip the sesame oil fully—simply be certain that your tofu is well-pressed and nonetheless coat it in cornstarch for crispiness.
Completely. Simply press the tofu first, then marinate for half-hour or longer earlier than air frying.
Retailer within the fridge as much as 4 days. Reheat within the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to get it crispy once more.
Arrowroot powder or potato starch additionally work properly!
For those who’re on the lookout for a simple, high-protein meatless meal, this crispy air fryer tofu has your again. It’s easy, satisfying, and pairs with virtually something. Plus, it is the sort of recipe that makes you are feeling like a meal prep genius. 😉
Let me know within the feedback the way you serve yours, or tag me on Instagram should you strive it!
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Crispy Air Fryer Tofu
Prep Time: 5 min
Cook dinner Time: 14 min
Complete Time: 1 min
Yield: 4 1x
Class: Straightforward
Technique: Air Fryer
Delicacies: American
Description
For those who’ve ever struggled to get your tofu crispy with out frying it in a ton of oil—this one’s for you. This air fryer tofu recipe is one in every of my favourite protein-packed, budget-friendly meals. It’s fast, hands-off, and seems golden and crispy each single time.
- 1 block extra-firm tofu – Pressed for not less than 15–half-hour
- 1 to 2 tablespoons – olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Or onion powder should you favor
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – That is the key to that golden crispy texture
- Non-obligatory: chili flakes, smoked paprika, hoisin, or maple syrup – Taste it your method!
Directions
Press the tofu. Wrap tofu in paper towels or a clear kitchen towel. Place one thing heavy on high (like a skillet or ebook). Let it press for 20–half-hour to take away extra moisture.
Reduce into cubes: As soon as pressed, lower tofu into bite-sized items (round ¾-inch cubes work finest).
Season it: In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and another seasonings you want. Then sprinkle within the cornstarch and toss till evenly coated. This step is elective you may simply toss the tofu with some olive oil.
Air fry: Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Place tofu in a single layer within the air fryer basket. Air fry for 12–14 minutes, shaking midway by, till golden and crispy.
