Crispy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked, this Air Fryer Tofu is a game-changer for quick, healthy meals. With just a handful of ingredients, you can transform tofu into golden, bite-sized cubes perfect for salads, stir-fries, or enjoying as a snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Perfection: The air fryer creates irresistibly crispy tofu with minimal oil.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, including prep time.
• Versatile: Pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces, grains, or vegetables.
• Healthy: Packed with plant-based protein and low in calories.
• Customizable: Adjust seasonings to fit your favorite cuisines.

Ingredients

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

• 14-ounce block extra-firm or firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Directions

Step 1: Press the Tofu

1. Cut the tofu into cubes.
2. Place the cubes on a paper towel-lined cutting board, cover with another layer of paper towels, and place a baking sheet on top. Weigh it down with a heavy object like a cast iron skillet or a large book. Press for 15 minutes to remove excess water. Alternatively, use a tofu press.

Step 2: Marinate the Tofu

1. Add the pressed tofu cubes to a mixing bowl.
2. Drizzle the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil over the tofu. Toss gently to coat evenly.
3. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu and toss again until well coated. Let marinate for 15 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Air Fry the Tofu

1. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Cook in batches if necessary.
2. Air fry at 400°F for 10–15 minutes, shaking the basket after 10 minutes.
3. Cook until the tofu is golden, crispy, and slightly puffed. Avoid overcooking to prevent burning.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the tofu immediately with your favorite sauce, over rice, or in a salad. Enjoy the crispy texture and savory flavor!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy tofu twist.
• Garlic Lovers: Add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic to the marinade.
• Sweet and Savory: Mix 1 teaspoon of maple syrup or honey into the marinade for a hint of sweetness.
• Oil-Free Option: Omit sesame oil for a lighter version; note that it may not be as crispy.
• Herbal Twist: Add dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade for a unique flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover tofu in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the tofu’s texture.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to regain crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use silken tofu?

No, silken tofu is too delicate for this recipe. Use extra-firm or firm tofu for the best results.

2. Do I have to press the tofu?

Pressing is essential for removing excess moisture, which helps the tofu crisp up in the air fryer.

3. Can I bake the tofu instead of air frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. What dipping sauces pair well with this tofu?

Soy sauce, peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or hoisin sauce are excellent options.

5. Can I add vegetables to the air fryer?

Yes, but cook them separately to ensure even crisping of both the tofu and vegetables.

6. How do I prevent sticking in the air fryer?

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray before adding the tofu.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

8. Is cornstarch necessary?

Cornstarch helps create a crispy exterior. You can substitute with arrowroot powder or omit for a softer texture.

9. Can I use other oils?

Yes, olive oil or avocado oil work well, though sesame oil adds a distinctive flavor.

10. Can I skip the marinade?

Marinating enhances flavor, but you can skip it and season with salt and pepper for simplicity.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Tofu is a versatile, healthy, and delicious recipe that’s perfect for any meal. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor, these tofu cubes are ideal for meal prep or quick dinners. Serve them with your favorite sides or sauces and enjoy a guilt-free, plant-based delight!

Air Fryer Tofu

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

• Author: fella
• Prep Time: 30min
• Cook Time: 15min
• Total Time: 45min
• Yield: 4 Servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish / Main Course
• Method: Air Fryer
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

Make perfectly crispy tofu in the air fryer! Marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar, this easy vegan recipe is healthy, gluten-free, and packed with flavor.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 14-ounce block extra-firm or firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Press the Tofu

• Cut the tofu into cubes. Arrange them on a cutting board lined with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Cover with another layer of paper towels, place a baking sheet on top, and weigh it down with a heavy object (like a cast iron skillet or book). Press for 15 minutes. Alternatively, use a tofu press.

2. Marinate the Tofu

• In a bowl, add the pressed tofu cubes. Drizzle with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Gently toss to coat the pieces.
• Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu and toss again to evenly coat. Let marinate for 15 minutes or longer (overnight if preferred).

3. Air Fry the Tofu

• Place the tofu cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring the pieces don’t touch. (You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer size.)
• Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally after 10 minutes. Cook until golden and crispy.

4. Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from the air fryer and serve warm. Pair with rice, noodles, or your favorite dipping sauce.

---

Notes

• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Oil-Free Option: Omit sesame oil for a lower-fat version, though the tofu may be slightly less crispy.
• Reheating Leftovers: Reheat in the air fryer at 400°F for 5 minutes to regain crispiness.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.