I recently experimented with an enticing Air Fry Tofu Easy dish that combines marinated tofu cubes with soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder and smoked paprika. Dusted in cornstarch and enhanced with sesame oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, it delivers an incredibly crisp bite ideal for all.

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I’ve been experimenting with air frying lately and came up with a recipe that’s both simple and super tasty. I start with 14 oz extra firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes.

It’s tossed in a blend of 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp black pepper before being dusted with 1/4 cup cornstarch. I even add 1 tbsp sesame oil for that extra boost of flavor if I’m feelin’ adventurous.

Then, it’s into the air fryer for just 13 minutes, which honestly is a lifesaver when you’re short on time. This recipe is perfect if you’re curious about easy tofu recipes or wondering how to cook tofu in an air fryer.

I love that it’s popular with kids and adults alike, and it’s a great twist on classic airfry tofu ideas that you simply gotta try. Enjoy!

Why I Like this Recipe

I love this recipe because it makes my tofu super crispy even though it’s cooked in an air fryer. I really appreciate how the marinade – with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a blend of spices – gives it such a punch of flavor, and it only takes about 13 minutes to get everything done. Also, I like that it’s an easy vegan dish that both kids and adults enjoy, which makes it perfect for a quick dinner. Lastly, the way the extra step of tossing the tofu in cornstarch really makes a difference in ensuring every piece gets that golden crunch, and that’s a little trick that adds up to a big taste!

Ingredients

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Extra firm tofu offers protein and fibre, acting as a healthy, tasty base.
Low sodium soy sauce gives an umami boost while keeping salt levels low.
Rice vinegar lends a tangy, slightly sweet note that brightens up the dish.
Smoked paprika adds a smoky warmth and a bold color that feels hearty.
Cornstarch creates an ultra-crispy coating that seals in flavors really well.
Sesame oil, optional but rich, contributes a nutty and enticing aroma.
Sesame seeds, sprinkled if desired, add crunch and a subtle nutty taste.

Ingredient Quantities

14 oz extra firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes

2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 cup cornstarch

1 tbsp sesame oil (optional for extra flavor)

1 tsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)

How to Make this

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1. First, press the tofu to remove extra moisture then cut it into cubes.

2. In a bowl, mix the low sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.

3. Add the tofu cubes to the bowl and gently toss them until they’re all coated. Let it sit for about 5 minutes so the flavors soak in.

4. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu cubes and toss again until they are evenly coated.

5. If you wanna add some extra flavor, drizzle the sesame oil over the tofu and give it another quick mix.

6. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for around 3 minutes.

7. Place the tofu in the air fryer basket ensuring they are in a single layer for even cooking.

8. Cook the tofu in the air fryer for 13 minutes; make sure to shake the basket or turn the tofu a couple of times during cooking.

9. Once the tofu is golden and crispy, remove it from the air fryer.

10. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top and serve immediately for the best crunch.

Equipment Needed

1. A tofu press (or a heavy plate with paper towels) to squeeze out extra moisture
2. A cutting board for safely chopping and cubing the tofu
3. A sharp knife to cut the tofu into cubes
4. A medium-sized mixing bowl to blend the marinade ingredients
5. Measuring spoons and a measuring cup to get the soy sauce, vinegar, and spices right
6. An air fryer with its basket to cook the tofu evenly
7. A pair of tongs or a spatula to gently toss and turn the tofu during cooking

FAQ

Q: How do I press the tofu for this recipe?

A: Just wrap the tofu in a paper towel and put a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes to get rid of most of the water.

Q: Can I skip marinating the tofu in soy sauce mixture?

A: Not really, since the soy sauce and spices help give it flavor so its best to stick with it.

Q: Do i need to toss the tofu with cornstarch?

A: Yes, the cornstarch makes the tofu extra crispy by creating a nice crunchy layer when air fried.

Q: Is it necessary to flip the tofu while air frying?

A: Yep, flipping or shaking the basket halfway through helps all sides get that uniform crispiness.

Q: What can I do if i want more flavor?

A: You can add the optional sesame oil for a richer taste and sprinkle some sesame seeds right before serving.

Ultra Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Recipe Substitutions and Variations

If you don’t have low sodium soy sauce, try using coconut aminos or tamari. They add a similar salty, savory flavor.
Instead of rice vinegar, you can use a small amount of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick.
If you run out of cornstarch, arrowroot powder works almost the same and gives you that crisp texture.
For sesame oil, regular peanut oil or even a light olive oil can be used if you’re in a pinch.

Pro Tips

1. A good tip is to really press your tofu. I mean, letting it sit with a heavy object for even 30 minutes can make a huge difference in how crispy it gets.
2. When you’re tossing the tofu in the marinade and then the cornstarch, be gentle so you dont end up breaking the cubes. It helps them keep their shape and texture when cooked.
3. Make sure to shake your air fryer basket midway through cookin. It might seem like a hassle but doing so helps every piece cook evenly and get that crisp exterior without any sogginess.