Description
This recipe delivers the best crispy air fryer tofu that’s perfectly golden, crunchy on the outside, and tender inside. Using simple seasonings and cornstarch for extra crispiness, this quick and easy dish is ideal for a healthy snack or protein-packed meal component.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu
- 1 block extra-firm tofu
Seasoning & Coating
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
Instructions
- Drain and Press Tofu: Drain the tofu and press it for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crispy texture when cooked.
- Cut Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into even, bite-sized cubes to allow for uniform cooking.
- Toss with Oil and Spices: In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well coated.
- Add Cornstarch: Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu and gently toss again until each cube is evenly coated, which helps achieve crispiness.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for optimal cooking temperature.
- Arrange Tofu: Place the tofu cubes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Air Fry: Cook the tofu for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to promote even crisping, until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Serve the tofu hot with your favorite dipping sauce or over bowls. Optionally, sprinkle with nutritional yeast for added flavor and nutrition.
Notes
- Pressing tofu is key to remove moisture and achieve crispiness.
- Adjust seasoning to taste or add your favorite spices for variety.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, baking at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined tray for 25-30 minutes could work as an alternative.
- Optional nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, umami flavor and extra nutrients.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispiness.
