Crispy Air Fryer Tofu is delicious, easy to make and great for meal prep. Make it in just 10 minutes with this fool proof recipe. Air fryer tofu is my favorite way to cook tofu at home! It is one of the easiest and delicious quick meals suitable for Vegan and gluten free Asian dinner preferences.
This tofu is crispy on the outside, soft and spongy in the middle, and full of delicious savory umami flavor. You can use it in Lo-mein noodles, Rice Ramen Noodles, Chinese fried Rice, Rice Noodles stir fry or other curry, rice or noodles dinners.
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This recipe makes the BEST crispy tofu that is well seasoned in just 10 minutes of cooking time. I love this meal prepped tofu for busy weeknight dinners and quick office lunches.
Making the perfect crispy tofu can be a bit of a challenge. However, I have found the secret to perfect air fried tofu every time!
Ingredients
Extra firm tofu - This is the only type of tofu which works best for this recipe. Make sure to drain and press out as much moisture / water as possible before using.
Cornstarch – helps to draw out excess liquid and gives the tofu a crispy exterior.
Liquid Coconut Aminos – I prefer to use liquid Aminos to make this gluten-free tofu recipe. You can use tamari or light soy sauce.
Marinade - Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, ground black pepper – these are a few simple seasonings that give your tofu incredible flavor. You don't need additional salt since liquid aminos have enough of that already.
Oil Spray : Just a mist or two to prevent tofu from drying out on the top while cooking. You can use sesame oil for rich and earthy flavors.
How to make Air Fryer Tofu (Step by Step Instructions)
Let's make crispy tofu in the air fryer. It's so easy and needs such a short time.
- In a medium size bowl place the pressed and cubed tofu. Sprinkle cornstarch, seasoning and liquid amino and toss to coat.
- Place the seasoned tofu cubes in your air fryer basket in a single row. Spray some oil on the top.
- Set your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Air fry tofu for 10-12 minutes, shake the basket halfway, then continuing to cook.
- Remove after tofu is browned and cooked. Allow to cool for a few minutes then serve. Enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Only use extra firm tofu.
- Make sure to press and remove as much water as possible. Adding my Amazon Affiliate link if you want to purchase the Tofu Press .
- Dice your tofu cubes in relatively the same size so they turn out evenly crispy.
- Arrange tofu in a single layer on an air fryer basket without overcrowding it. Make it in batches if needed.
- Allow enough space for hot air to circulate amongst the tofu cubes.
- Use only certified gluten free tofu to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free. Soy sauce is not gf. I use liquid Coconut Amino instead.
- Store leftover crispy tofu in airtight container. You can store it in refrigrator for 4-5 days. You can also freeze it
Serving Suggestions
This air-fried tofu is one of my favorite plant-based proteins to add to Asian stir fry meals. I prefer to sprinkle some sesame seeds as a garnish.
I also make a wholesome grain bowl with Cilantro Lime Brown Rice, Air Fryer Mushrooms, Crispy Kale Chips and this crispy tofu topped with Avocado cilantro lime dressing. It is AMAZING!
Our Favorite Tofu Recipes
I love cooking with tofu. It is wholesome and healthy ingredient full of plant protein and complex carbohydrates.
Kung Pao Tofu is is our family favorite amazing Chinese tofu recipe. Smoked Tofu is easy and excellent meal prep if you like smoky meat alternative. Tofu Scramble is great for vegan breakfast.
I also like to add seasoned tofu to various curries to make a complete meal. Do try Thai Red Curry, Thai Massman Curry as well as Thai Green Curry.
More Side Dish Recipes
We love making variety of different side dish recipes using Air Fryer. If you love this air fryer tofu recipe, try one of these tasty recipes.
You must use the category name, not a URL, in the category field.Air Fryer is my favorite kitchen gadget to make variety of different vegetables. Air Fryer Asparagus, Crispy Broccoli, brussels sprouts, mushrooms and cauliflower can all be made into deliciously crispy without deep frying.
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📖 Recipe
How to Cook Tofu in Air Fryer
Equipment
Ingredients
- 14 ounces extra-firm tofu
- 3 Tablespoons coconut amino
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- ⅛ teaspoon seasoning garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, ground black pepper
- Oil spray
Instructions
- In a medium size bowl place the pressed and cubed tofu. Sprinkle cornstarch, seasoning and liquid amino and toss to coat.
- Place the seasoned tofu cubes in your air fryer basket in a single row. Spray some oil on the top.
- Set your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, then continuing to cook.
- Remove after tofu is browned and cooked. Allow to cool for a few minutes then serve. Enjoy!
Holly Chima
Can I use liquid smoke instead ? It looks wonderful!
Prajakta Sukhatme
Yes. You can use liquid smoke . It will give it bold smoky flavors.