Cooking with an air fryer has taken the culinary world by storm, allowing you to prepare your favorite foods with less oil, resulting in healthier versions of traditional recipes. One of the most exciting choices to prepare in an air fryer is tofu. This scrumptious Air Fryer Tofu is crispy, flavorful, and an excellent addition to any meal.
Why We Love This Air Fryer Tofu Recipe
There are many reasons why Air Fryer Tofu holds a special place in our hearts and plates. First and foremost, tofu is a versatile ingredient. It effortlessly absorbs flavors from marinades and sauces, making it ideal for a wide variety of dishes. When cooked in an air fryer, tofu transforms into a crispy, golden delight that adds texture to salads, grain bowls, or stir-fries.
Moreover, this recipe is incredibly simple and quick. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up an impressive dish that delights your taste buds. Plus, using an air fryer means you can enjoy that crunch and golden color without the added calories from deep-frying. Let’s dive deeper to explore how to create this irresistible dish!
Ingredients about Air Fryer Tofu
To whip up your Air Fryer Tofu, you need a straightforward list of ingredients. Each one contributes to the rich taste and satisfying texture of this dish.
- 14-ounce block extra-firm or firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
How to Make Air Fryer Tofu Directions
Making Air Fryer Tofu is a breeze, and you will be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieve perfectly crispy tofu each time.
Press the Tofu: Begin by removing excess moisture from your block of tofu. Cut it into bite-sized cubes. To press the cubes, lay them on a flat surface lined with paper towels. Place another layer of paper towels on top and weigh it down with a heavy object like a cast-iron skillet. Allow the tofu to press for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial because it helps your tofu achieve that desired crispy texture.
Marinate the Tofu: After pressing, transfer the cubed tofu into a mixing bowl. Drizzle the low sodium soy sauce (or tamari), seasoned rice vinegar, and sesame oil over the tofu. Gently toss the cubes to ensure they are evenly coated in the marinade. The flavors infuse into the tofu, making it delicious.
Coat with Cornstarch: Now, sprinkle the cornstarch over the marinated tofu. Gently toss again to ensure each piece is lightly coated. Cornstarch will help create that crispy outer layer when air frying.
Marination Time: Allow the tofu to marinate while you preheat the air fryer. If you have time, let it sit for about 15 minutes to enhance the flavors further.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400 degrees F (about 200 degrees C). This high temperature is essential for getting that perfect crunch.
Air Fry the Tofu: Once the air fryer is preheated, spread the tofu cubes in a single layer in the basket. Cook for about 10-15 minutes. Remember to give the basket a gentle shake halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.
Check for Doneness: You’ll know your tofu is ready when it’s golden brown and crispy on the outside. Once cooked, carefully remove the tofu from the air fryer, and it’s ready to serve!
How to Serve Air Fryer Tofu
The beauty of Air Fryer Tofu lies in its versatility. You can serve it in numerous ways, making it suitable for any meal of the day. Here are a few suggestions:
As a Snack: Serve your crispy tofu as a tasty snack. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce, such as a sweet chili sauce or soy sauce mixed with sesame seeds.
In Bowls: Create nourishing grain bowls by adding cooked quinoa or brown rice, steamed vegetables, and a generous topping of Air Fryer Tofu. A drizzle of tahini or a spicy peanut sauce can elevate the dish further.
In Salads: Toss Air Fryer Tofu into a fresh salad. The crunch of the tofu adds a lovely texture, while the protein helps keep you fuller longer. Combine it with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing dish.
In Stir-Fry: Use the tofu as the protein in your favorite stir-fry dish. Just add sautéed vegetables and a flavorful sauce to complete the meal.
Whatever way you choose to enjoy your Air Fryer Tofu, the crispy texture and flavor will surely impress.
Expert Tips: Air Fryer Tofu
To get the most out of your Air Fryer Tofu, follow these expert tips:
Choose the Right Tofu: For optimal texture, extra-firm or firm tofu is recommended. Silken tofu will not yield the same crispiness.
Don’t Rush the Pressing: Pressing tofu removes excess moisture, which is essential for achieving a crispy result. Don’t skip this step.
Experiment with Marinades: While this recipe provides a fantastic base, feel free to try different marinades. You might add garlic, ginger, or your favorite spices for extra flavor.
Avoid Overcrowding the Air Fryer: Ensure the tofu cubes are not overlapping in the air fryer so that air can circulate effectively. Cook in batches if necessary.
Make It Spicy: If you love heat, consider adding chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick!
How to Store Air Fryer Tofu
Once you’ve made your scrumptious Air Fryer Tofu, you may wish to store leftovers for future meals. Here’s how you can do it:
Storage Method: Allow any leftover tofu to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating Tips: To retain some of that crispy texture when reheating, consider popping it back into the air fryer for a few minutes. This will help to re-crisp the outside, making it almost as good as fresh!
Variation of Air Fryer Tofu
As you experiment with this delightful recipe, you’ll find many variations to suit your tastes. Here are some ideas to consider:
Herb-Infused Tofu: Mix fresh herbs like basil or cilantro into the marinade for a fresh twist.
Buffalo Tofu: Add hot sauce to your marinade for a tangy, spicy hot-style tofu. Perfect for those who love a bit of heat!
Sweet and Sour Tofu: To create a sweet and tangy version, add a splash of maple syrup or honey (or a plant-based substitute) to the marinade.
Asian-Inspired: Mix in some minced garlic or fresh ginger for an additional depth of flavor.
Experimenting with these variations allows you to make Air Fryer Tofu suit a variety of cuisines.
FAQ Section
What is Air Fryer Tofu?
Air Fryer Tofu is a dish made by cooking tofu in an air fryer, resulting in a crispy exterior while retaining tenderness inside. By using minimal oil, you enjoy a healthier alternative to traditional frying.
How do you get tofu crispy in an air fryer?
To achieve crispy tofu, ensure you press it to remove excess moisture thoroughly. Coat it in a light layer of cornstarch before air frying to promote a crunchy texture.
Can I use soft tofu for air frying?
Soft or silken tofu is not recommended for air frying as it will not hold its shape and won’t achieve that crispy texture desirable in Air Fryer Tofu. Stick to extra-firm or firm varieties for best results.
How can I make Air Fryer Tofu without soy sauce?
You can easily make tofu without soy sauce by using coconut aminos or a homemade marinade with herbs, spices, and alternative acids like lemon juice or apple cider vinegar.
How do I make tofu taste better?
Tofu absorbs flavors well, so marinating it before cooking is key. Use various seasoning blends, sauces, or marinades to suit your liking—don’t hesitate to experiment!
Air Fryer Tofu
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Paper Towels
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 14 oz. block extra-firm or firm tofu
- 2 Tbsp. low sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 1 Tbsp. seasoned rice vinegar
- 1 tsp. sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp. cornstarch
Instructions
- Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into 3/4-inch cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add tofu cubes and gently toss to coat.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu and toss again until evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place tofu cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Check for doneness; tofu should be golden brown and crispy. Remove and serve hot.
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