Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance for their ability to cook food quickly and with less oil, resulting in crispy textures without deep frying. Tofu, known for its versatility and ability to absorb flavors, becomes wonderfully crispy in the air fryer, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and delicious snack or addition to a meal. This detailed recipe will guide you through making perfectly crispy air fryer tofu that’s golden on the outside and soft on the inside.
Ingredients
- 1 block (14-16 oz) firm or extra firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for spice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
- Prep Tofu: Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the block of tofu in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel, then place it on a plate. Put a heavy object on top (like a cast iron skillet or some canned goods) and let it press for at least 15-20 minutes. This helps the tofu become firmer and allows it to absorb marinades better.
- Cut Tofu: Once pressed, unwrap the tofu and cut it into cubes or slices of your desired size. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Marinade
- Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce (or tamari), olive oil, cornstarch (or arrowroot powder), garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Marinate Tofu: Place the tofu pieces into the marinade and gently toss to coat each piece evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the tofu.
Step 3: Air Frying
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with a bit of oil or use a cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Tofu: Arrange the marinated tofu pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overlapping to ensure even crisping.
- Air Fry: Place the basket into the air fryer and cook the tofu at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through cooking. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your tofu pieces and the air fryer model.
- Check for Crispiness: Keep an eye on the tofu towards the end of cooking. It should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Hot: Once done, remove the air fryer basket carefully. Serve the crispy tofu immediately while hot.
- Optional Garnish: Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha mayo for added flavor.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Tofu
- Tofu Texture: For the crispiest tofu, use firm or extra firm tofu and make sure to press out as much moisture as possible before marinating.
- Marinating Time: Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes. This helps infuse the flavors into the tofu.
- Air Fryer Temperature: Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking and helps achieve crispy results. Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model and personal preference for texture.
- Even Cooking: Arrange tofu pieces in a single layer with space between them to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy on all sides.
- Variations: Experiment with different marinades or seasonings such as BBQ sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a honey-sriracha glaze for different flavor profiles.
Conclusion
Air fryer tofu is a quick and healthy alternative to deep-fried tofu, offering a satisfying crispy texture without excess oil. This recipe allows you to enjoy tofu as a snack, appetizer, or part of a main dish, adding protein and flavor to any meal. Master the art of making perfectly crispy air fryer tofu with this easy-to-follow recipe, and customize it with your favorite seasonings and sauces for a delightful culinary experience.