Sometimes, the best meals come from simple moments in the kitchen. This crispy air fryer tofu is one of those dishes that feels like a little victory after a busy day. It’s golden and crunchy on the outside, yet so tender inside that every bite invites you to slow down and savor.
I remember the first time I made this tofu. The air fryer hummed softly as the cubes turned golden brown, filling the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. When I finally took that first bite, the crisp exterior gave way to a soft center, perfectly seasoned and comforting. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a small pause in the day that made me feel grounded and cared for. The slight smokiness from the paprika and the gentle garlic notes made it impossible to stop eating.
- Crunchy texture thanks to the air fryer’s magic, no deep frying necessary.
- Simple ingredients that come together in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile enough to add to salads, bowls, or just enjoy on its own.
- Protein-packed and satisfying for any meal of the day.
- Easy cleanup and leftovers keep well for quick meals later in the week.
If you’re worried about tofu sticking or turning soggy, the little tricks here—like pressing the tofu well and using the right coating—make all the difference. Plus, the air fryer ensures an even crisp without the mess of oil splatters.
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Crispy Air Fryer Tofu
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A simple and delicious recipe for crispy tofu made in the air fryer. Perfectly golden and crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, this tofu is a great protein-packed addition to any meal.
Ingredients
14 ounces extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil spray
Instructions
Press the tofu for at least 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Then cut into 1-inch cubes.
In a large bowl, combine soy sauce and sesame oil. Add tofu cubes and gently toss to coat. Let marinate for 5 minutes.
In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Sprinkle the cornstarch mixture over the marinated tofu and toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place tofu cubes in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding. You may need to cook in batches.
Air fry the tofu for 15 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the tofu halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.
Remove the tofu from the air fryer and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I use regular tofu instead of extra-firm? Extra-firm tofu works best to hold shape and crispness, but if you only have firm tofu, press it longer to remove as much moisture as possible.
How do I keep the tofu crispy after cooking? Serve immediately for the best crunch. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer to bring back crispiness.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to make it gluten-free.
Can I add other spices? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings to customize the flavor.
Try this crispy air fryer tofu when you want a quick, satisfying meal that feels homemade and nourishing. It’s a simple way to add texture and protein to your plate without fuss. Once you taste that golden crunch, you’ll want to make it again and again.