Description
This Crispy Air Fryer Tofu recipe delivers golden, super crispy tofu cubes in just 15 minutes of cooking time using minimal oil. Perfectly marinated and air fried, it offers a deliciously crisp texture similar to deep frying but healthier and quicker, making it a fantastic vegan appetizer or main course.
Ingredients
Tofu Marinade
- 1 (16-ounce) package of extra firm tofu, heavily pressed and cut into ½-inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Thoroughly press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into ½-inch cubes. This helps the tofu absorb the marinade and ensures crispiness when cooked.
- Marinate: In a medium bowl, toss the tofu cubes with vegetable oil until evenly coated. Add soy sauce and freshly ground black pepper, mixing well to ensure all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate the tofu to marinate for at least 30 minutes or longer for deeper flavor.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Spread the tofu cubes evenly in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Ensure that the cubes do not touch each other so that hot air can circulate and cook them evenly.
- Air Fry the Tofu: Set the air fryer temperature to 375°F (190°C). Cook the tofu for a total of 12 to 15 minutes. At around 8 minutes, pause cooking and shake the basket gently to turn the tofu cubes for even crisping. Then, return to finish cooking until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the tofu from the air fryer once crispy and golden brown. Serve immediately as a delicious appetizer or add to your favorite dishes as a crispy protein boost.
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; sufficient space allows air to circulate around each tofu cube for even crisping. Cook in batches if necessary.
- You can change the shape of the tofu pieces to triangles, sticks, or ‘torn’ nuggets, keeping them approximately ½-inch thick for best results.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American