Air Fryer Tofu

This crispy tofu recipe is full of flavor made by cooking cubes of marinated tofu in the air fryer with very little oil and made to perfection every time. They can be served as a side dish or topped on salads, pasta, or noodles.

Ingredients for making Air Fryer Tofu

• Tofu – Always ensure to use organic extra-firm tofu and press for at least 30 minutes.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce - Or tamari (for gluten-free). Because it adds the extra zing to the dish. You can also use liquid aminos or coconut aminos.
• Sesame oil - using sesame oil or any oil helps to crisp up the tofu. So dont skimp on the oil.
• Spices – I have used garlic powder, red chili powder (or paprika), salt, and pepper for seasoning. You may use your favorite go-to spices.
• Maple Syrup – you can also use agave. Helps to balance the flavors, and doesn't make it sweet.
• Rice vinegar - gives a tart and sweet taste to the dish. You can skip it if you don't have one.
• Cornstarch – This is the secret ingredient to make extra crispy tofu.

How to Make Air Fryer Tofu

Press extra-firm tofu with some heavy objects for at least 30 minutes. This will drain the excess moisture.

Then cut the tofu into cubes.

In a mixing jar, add garlic powder, red chili powder (or sriracha), soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup (or agave), sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well with a whisker until well blended and keep aside.

In a medium-sized bowl place the pressed tofu. Add the prepared soy sauce marinade and toss to coat. Let the tofu sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Then when you are ready for Air frying, add a tablespoon of corn starch and toss well to combine. Cornstarch helps to make the tofu crispier and is optional.

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (203°C). Add the marinated tofu to the air fryer basket and spread them in a single layer (cook in batches if required).

Air fryer them at 400°F (203°C) for 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown, and crispy. Shake the basket halfway through.

The air fryer marinated tofu is ready to serve. Remove to a serving plate, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve warm.

How to Make Marinated Tofu on Stovetop

Heat the pan or skillet over medium-high heat, and add some oil. Then arrange all the marinated tofu in a single layer. Again lightly brush or spray some oil on the top. Cook from both sides until it turns golden brown in color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this air-fried tofu as a side dish with a dipping sauce, or as an appetizer, or top it on stir-fries, pasta, noodles, or salads.

Seasoning Variations

• Italian seasoning
• Cajun spice seasoning
• Chili Lime Seasoning

Tips & Variation

• Marinate the tofu for at least 30 minutes or a few hours so they absorb more flavors from the marinade.  
• If you see your tofu becoming dry, then brush some oil on them to retain the moisture.
• Highly recommend adding cornstarch to the tofu, as it helps to absorb excess moisture and makes it extra crispy.
• Cut the tofu into cubes of the same size, this helps for quick and even cooking.
• To make a Keto-friendly version, skip the cornstarch and maple syrup in this recipe.

More Tofu Recipes

• Tofu Bhurji
• Tandoori Tofu Tikka
• Palak Tofu
• Tofu Paratha
• Thai Red Curry
• Panang Curry

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Perfect Roasted Asparagus
• Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
• Masala Peanuts
• Tandoori Gobi
• Beetroot Cutlet
• Green Beans

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