Make perfectly crispy tofu in your air fryer! Marinated in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, this easy recipe is a delicious and healthy plant-based option for any meal. Whether you enjoy it as a protein-packed snack, a salad topper, or in a stir-fry, this crispy tofu is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy without deep frying – The air fryer makes tofu golden and crunchy with minimal oil.
Quick and easy – Ready in just 20 minutes with simple ingredients.
Healthy and high in protein – A nutritious plant-based option.
Versatile – Perfect for grain bowls, salads, or wraps.
Customizable flavors – Change up the marinade for different tastes!

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
Soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
Rice vinegar
Sesame oil
Garlic powder
Cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
Neutral oil spray (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

Press the Tofu – Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel, place a heavy object on top, and let it press for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
Cube the Tofu – Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.

Step 2: Marinate the Tofu

Mix the Marinade – In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and garlic powder.
Marinate – Add the tofu cubes to the bowl, gently toss, and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb flavor.

Step 3: Coat and Air Fry

Coat with Cornstarch – Drain the tofu and toss with cornstarch until lightly coated.
Preheat Air Fryer – Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Air Fry – Arrange the tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with oil (optional for extra crispiness).
Cook – Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Step 4: Serve

Enjoy! – Serve immediately with dipping sauces, over rice, or in a stir-fry.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 3-4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Air Fryer Tofu – Add sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade.
BBQ Tofu – Toss the cooked tofu in BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
Sweet & Sour Tofu – Glaze with a sweet and tangy sauce after air frying.
Teriyaki Tofu – Coat with teriyaki sauce before serving.
No-Oil Version – Skip the oil spray for an even lighter dish.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing – Freeze for up to 2 months; reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
Reheating – Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.

FAQs

Do I need to press the tofu?

Yes! Pressing removes excess moisture and helps achieve a crispier texture.

Can I use firm tofu instead of extra-firm?

Yes, but it may be slightly softer. Extra-firm tofu works best.

Why is my tofu not crispy?

Ensure you press out moisture, use cornstarch, and don’t overcrowd the air fryer.

Can I use different seasonings?

Absolutely! Try smoked paprika, cumin, or lemon pepper for different flavors.

Can I make this without cornstarch?

Yes, but cornstarch helps create the crispiest coating. Try arrowroot powder as a substitute.

What dipping sauces pair well with crispy tofu?

Soy sauce, peanut sauce, teriyaki sauce, or sriracha mayo are all great options.

Can I cook this in the oven instead?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.

How do I make tofu crispier in the air fryer?

Lightly spray with oil, cook in a single layer, and increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last few minutes.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

What should I serve with air fryer tofu?

Serve it with rice, stir-fried veggies, noodles, or as a salad topping.

Conclusion

Crispy Air Fryer Tofu is an easy, delicious, and healthy plant-based dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re using it in bowls, wraps, or as a snack, this tofu is guaranteed to be crispy, flavorful, and satisfying. Try it today and enjoy a high-protein, crunchy, and versatile addition to your meals!

Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Recipe

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Author: asma
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan

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Description

Make perfectly crispy tofu in your air fryer with this easy, healthy, and flavorful recipe! Marinated in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, this air-fried tofu is golden and crunchy on the outside, yet tender inside. Perfect for salads, rice bowls, wraps, or as a protein-packed snack!

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu

Press the tofu – Wrap in a clean towel and place a heavy object on top. Let it press for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
Cut into cubes – Slice the tofu into bite-sized 1-inch cubes.

2. Marinate the Tofu

In a bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, maple syrup, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Add the tofu cubes and toss gently. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour for deeper flavor).

3. Coat & Air Fry

Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu and toss until evenly coated. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon oil to enhance crispiness.
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
Air fry for 15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes until crispy and golden brown.

4. Serve & Enjoy

Serve hot with dipping sauces, rice bowls, stir-fries, or salads. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired!

Notes

For extra crunch, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 2 minutes.
No air fryer? Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
Flavor variations: Add sriracha, chili flakes, or smoked paprika to the marinade for a spicy twist!
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days and reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish, Snack, Side Dish
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Vegan