Air Fryer Recipe: Crispy Tofu Bites

Air Fryer Crispy Tofu Bites

Air-Fried Crispy Tofu Bites

Crispy Tofu Bites are a fantastic, plant-based snack or addition to any meal, and the air fryer makes them incredibly easy to achieve. Forget soggy or oil-laden tofu – with the air fryer, you get perfectly golden, crunchy exteriors and tender interiors with minimal oil. They're versatile, absorbing flavours beautifully, and make a great protein boost for salads, stir-fries, or just enjoyed on their own with your favourite dipping sauce.

Yields: 2-4 servings

Prep time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes pressing time)

Cook time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm or super-firm tofu
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)1
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sesame oil for an Asian twist)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • Optional: Dipping sauce (e.g., sweet chilli, peanut sauce, sriracha mayo)

Instructions:

  1. Press the Tofu: This is crucial for crispiness! Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain any liquid. Wrap the block in several layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Place it on a plate and put something heavy on top (like a cast-iron skillet or a few cans) for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer you press, the crispier the tofu will get.
  2. Cube the Tofu: After pressing, unwrap the tofu and cut it into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes. Try to make them relatively even in size for consistent cooking.
  3. Season the Tofu: In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Add the cubed tofu and gently toss to coat evenly. Be careful not to break the cubes.
  4. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400∘F (200∘C) for 3-5 minutes.2
  5. Air Fry: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil. Place the seasoned tofu cubes in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.3 You will need to cook in batches.
  6. Cook and Shake: Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5-7 minutes to ensure even browning and crispiness. The tofu is done when it's deeply golden brown and crunchy on the outside.
  7. Serve: Remove the crispy tofu bites from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favourite dipping sauce, or add them to salads, wraps, or stir-fries.4

Tips:

  • Pressing is Key: Don't skip pressing the tofu! Removing excess water is the secret to a truly crispy result.
  • Cornstarch Magic: Cornstarch creates a light, crispy coating that makes a huge difference in texture.
  • Even Coating: Ensure each tofu cube is well-coated with the seasoning mixture for maximum flavour and crispiness.
  • Don't Overcrowd: Give the tofu plenty of space in the air fryer basket. Cooking in a single layer allows the hot air to circulate freely around each piece, leading to maximum crispiness.
  • Shake for Evenness: Shaking the basket frequently helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning on all sides.5
  • Flavour Boosts: Feel free to experiment with different spices! Smoked paprika, chilli powder, ginger, or a dash of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour are all great additions.
  • Storage: Leftover crispy tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375∘F (190∘C) for a few minutes to regain crispiness.6

 

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