This crispy air fryer tofu is a game-changer! It’s golden, crunchy, and super easy to make. Just cube your tofu, add some flavor, and let the air fryer work its magic!
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to sneak it into every meal. I love tossing it in salad or enjoying it with rice. So yummy and good for you too! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu works best for crispy results. If you’re looking for a soy-free option, try using chickpea tofu, which offers a similar texture.
Soy Sauce or Tamari: Both add great flavor. Tamari is gluten-free. If you need a low-sodium version, look for low-sodium soy sauce or use coconut aminos for a different flavor.
Oil: I prefer sesame oil for that nutty flavor, but olive oil is a great neutral option. If you’re avoiding oil, you can skip it, but the tofu may not turn out as crispy.
Cornstarch: This helps achieve that amazing crunch. Arrowroot powder is a good substitute if you have it. For a grain-free option, try using ground flax seeds.
Smoked Paprika: Adds a lovely smoky taste, but you can skip it if you prefer a simpler flavor profile. Regular paprika works if you want a milder option.
How Do You Get Tofu Extra Crispy?
To achieve that delightful crispy texture, proper preparation is key. Here’s the breakdown:
- Press the Tofu: This step can’t be skipped! Removing excess moisture allows the tofu to absorb flavors and crisp up nicely. The longer you press, the better!
- Uniform Cubes: Cutting tofu into even pieces ensures they cook evenly in the air fryer. You want all pieces to be similar in size.
- Coating:** Make sure to coat the tofu well with the cornstarch mixture. This will form a crunchy exterior as it cooks.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Place tofu in a single layer in the air fryer. Overlapping can steam the tofu rather than crisp it up.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 14 oz (400 g) firm or extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh herbs (e.g., chopped parsley or chives) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for making crispy air fryer tofu is about 45 minutes. This includes about 30 minutes for pressing the tofu and 15-20 minutes for cooking. It’s a breeze and well worth the wait for that crunchy deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Press the Tofu:
Start by draining the tofu from its package. To remove extra moisture, wrap the block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Place a heavy object on top, like a cast iron skillet or a few cookbooks, and let it sit for about 15 to 30 minutes. This will help the tofu become firmer, allowing it to absorb more flavor and get crispier when cooked.
2. Cut the Tofu:
Once the tofu is pressed, it’s time to cut it! Slice the tofu into evenly sized cubes, roughly 1 inch in size. This uniformity helps them cook evenly in the air fryer.
3. Marinate the Tofu:
In a mixing bowl, gently toss the tofu cubes with soy sauce (or tamari) and olive oil (or sesame oil) until all the pieces are nicely coated. This adds flavor and helps the seasoning stick!
4. Coat with Seasoning:
In a separate small bowl, combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this dry mixture over the marinated tofu, gently tossing to ensure that every piece is coated evenly. This coating is key to achieving that crispy crust in the air fryer!
5. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the tofu start cooking immediately when placed in the basket.
6. Air Fry the Tofu:
Place the seasoned tofu cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch or overlap. This ensures they get nice and crispy. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the tofu halfway through to promote even cooking and crispiness.
7. Check for Crispiness:
After cooking, check if the tofu is golden brown and crispy on all sides. If you like it extra crispy, you can add a few more minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
8. Serve:
Once done, carefully transfer the tofu to a serving bowl. If you’d like, garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives. Enjoy your crispy tofu with your favorite dipping sauce, over rice, or tossed in salad!
Enjoy your perfectly crispy air fryer tofu!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Crispy Air Fryer Tofu
Can I Use Frozen Tofu for This Recipe?
Yes! Frozen tofu can actually result in a chewier texture. Just make sure to thaw it completely, press out the excess moisture, and follow the same steps for marinating and coating before air frying.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy-free option, coconut aminos is a great substitute. It has a slightly sweet flavor. Tamari is also a good gluten-free option if soy isn’t an issue.
How Do I Store Leftover Tofu?
Store any leftover crispy tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer again for a few minutes to regain its crispiness, or you can microwave it, though it may lose some crunch.
Can I Add Other Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. You can add spices like chili powder, cumin, or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Just remember to adjust the amount of salt you use based on the seasonings added.
