How to Fry Air Fryer Tofu by yourself in 2024

Frying tofu in an air fryer is a great way to achieve a crispy texture with minimal oil. Follow these steps to make delicious air fryer tofu.

Ingredients:

• 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• Optional: additional seasonings such as smoked paprika, chili powder, or nutritional yeast

Equipment:

• Air fryer
• Paper towels or a clean kitchen towel
• Mixing bowl
• Cooking spray (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the Tofu:
   • Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain the liquid.
   • Wrap the tofu block in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and place it on a plate.
   • Set a heavy object (like a skillet or a can) on top to press out excess moisture. Let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes.
2. Cut the Tofu:
   • After pressing, cut the tofu into

1-inch cubes or desired shapes for even cooking.

3. Marinate the Tofu:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil or sesame oil, soy sauce or tamari, garlic powder, onion powder, and any additional seasonings you like.
   • Gently toss the tofu cubes in the marinade to coat them evenly. Let the tofu marinate for at least 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Coat with Cornstarch:
   • Sprinkle the cornstarch over the marinated tofu and toss gently to coat. This will help create a crispy exterior when air frying.
5. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking.
6. Place Tofu in the Air Fryer:
   • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking (optional).
   • Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
7. Cook the Tofu:
   • Cook the tofu at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the tofu halfway through the cooking time. This helps to ensure even browning and crispiness.
8. Check for Crispiness:
   • After 15-20 minutes, check the tofu for doneness. It should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. If you prefer it crispier, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
9. Serve:
   • Remove the tofu from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it as a snack, or add it to salads, stir-fries, or grain bowls.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Tofu:

• Variety: Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to keep things interesting. Try teriyaki sauce, BBQ sauce, or a spicy chili sauce.
• Storage: Leftover air-fried tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore its crispiness.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair air-fried tofu with a dipping sauce like sweet chili, peanut, or soy sauce for added flavor.

Enjoy your crispy, flavorful air fryer tofu!

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