Have you ever craved a deliciously crispy tofu dish that’s quick and easy to make? Look no further! This air fryer tofu recipe delivers perfectly golden cubes of tofu that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Ideal as a snack, salad topping, or main dish, this recipe will satisfy your cravings while keeping your meal healthy. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking steps to create this delightful dish!
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This air fryer tofu recipe serves 2 people. The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 150g) contains:
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 16g
– Carbohydrates: 8g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Press the tofu to remove excess moisture for about 15 minutes.
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and toss gently.
- Let the tofu marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu and toss to coat evenly.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Once golden brown and crispy, remove and let cool slightly before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you don’t have soy sauce, you can substitute it with tamari for a gluten-free option. Additionally, try using sesame oil for a nutty flavor. For a spicy kick, add chili powder or sriracha to the marinade.
Serving and Pairings
This air fryer tofu pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or in a salad. Serve it alongside a dipping sauce, like sweet chili sauce or a homemade peanut sauce, for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the tofu back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore its crispiness. It’s not recommended to freeze, as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Skipping the pressing step can result in soggy tofu.
- Not marinating long enough can lead to bland flavors.
- Overcrowding the air fryer basket prevents even cooking.
- Not shaking the basket halfway through cooking may cause uneven crispiness.
- Using too much cornstarch can make the tofu overly dry.
Helpful Tips
- Use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best texture.
- Experiment with different marinades for varied flavors.
- Make sure the air fryer is preheated for optimal cooking.
- Allow the tofu to cool slightly before serving to enhance the texture.
FAQs
Can I use soft tofu for this recipe?
Soft tofu is not recommended as it will not hold its shape during cooking; firm or extra-firm tofu works best.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
What dipping sauces go well with air fryer tofu?
Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a spicy peanut sauce pair well with air fryer tofu for a delightful dip.
Can I add vegetables to the air fryer with the tofu?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, but ensure they have similar cooking times for even results.
How can I make the tofu extra crispy?
Ensure the tofu is well-pressed and coated evenly with cornstarch; also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Conclusion
This air fryer tofu recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, crispy snack or meal. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time. Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner, enjoy the satisfying crunch and robust flavors with every bite!
Air Fryer Tofu Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish optional
Instructions
- Press the tofu to remove excess moisture for about 15 minutes.
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and toss gently.
- Let the tofu marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu and toss to coat evenly.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Once golden brown and crispy, remove and let cool slightly before serving.