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Crispy Air Fryer Tofu

Category: Perfect Side Dishes to Complete Any Meal

Start by pressing and drying firm tofu for a crisp exterior. Marinate cubes with soy sauce, sesame oil, and spices for deep flavor infusion. Then, coat with a light layer of seasoned cornstarch to create a delicate, crunchy crust. Arrange tofu pieces evenly in the air fryer basket to allow hot air circulation, and cook at 400°F, turning midway until golden and crisp. Meanwhile, whisk together a vibrant sauce of mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili, garlic, and sriracha to complement the tofu's texture with a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. Serve over steamed rice, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds for a satisfying finish.

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A woman wearing a chef's hat and apron.
Created By Sarah
Last updated on Tue, 23 Dec 2025 17:30:53 GMT
A bowl of tofu cubes with rice. Save
A bowl of tofu cubes with rice. | sarahmeal.com

This air fryer tofu recipe is perfect for getting a crisp, golden crust without the mess and fuss of deep frying. The method relies on marinating the tofu, coating it lightly with cornstarch for crunch, and then air frying it to perfection before tossing in a flavorful spicy sauce. It’s a simple way to enjoy a satisfying plant-based protein with endless sauce options to suit your taste buds.

I first made this on a busy weeknight when I wanted something quick but satisfying. Now it’s a staple in my rotation because it’s both fuss-free and delicious.

Ingredients

  • Firm tofu cut into cubes: holds up well and crisps nicely, choose fresh from a reputable brand
  • Reduced-sodium soy sauce: controls salt level while adding umami look for a good quality one for best flavor
  • Toasted sesame oil: adds a rich, nutty aroma that lifts the marinade avoid untoasted versions for this recipe
  • Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika: these provide a versatile, savory base feel free to experiment with spices
  • Cornstarch: creates a light, crisp coating that won’t turn gummy like flour essential for texture
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: season simply but effectively
  • Olive oil cooking spray: helps tofu brown evenly without extra oil mess
  • Grated fresh garlic: gives the sauce a fresh punch
  • Mayonnaise: adds creaminess and binds the sauce ingredients
  • Thai sweet chili sauce: brings sweetness and tang to the sauce
  • Sriracha: adds just the right amount of heat
  • Optional toppings like sliced scallions and sesame seeds: for freshness and visual appeal

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:
This recipe skips sautéing but starts by combining aromatic spices in the marinade and sauce for layers of flavor.
Prep the Tofu:
Drain the firm tofu thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is critical to getting crispy tofu because water prevents browning.
Marinate the Tofu:
In a large bowl, whisk together reduced-sodium soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Gently toss tofu cubes in this mixture to coat evenly without breaking them up. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes up to an hour to let the flavors absorb.
Coat in Cornstarch:
In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with salt and black pepper. Add marinated tofu and toss gently ensuring every piece is lightly coated. Shake off excess cornstarch for the best crispness.
Air Fry:
Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer with space around each piece in the air fryer basket. Spray with cooking spray to help take the crust golden. Cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes total, turning halfway through to brown evenly. Work in batches if necessary so the cubes aren’t crowded.
Make the Sauce:
While tofu cooks, whisk mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, grated garlic, and sriracha in a bowl. Taste and adjust heat as you like by adding more sriracha.
Toss and Serve:
Add the crispy tofu into the sauce bowl and toss gently to coat well. Serve over steamed rice and garnish with scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
A plate of air fryer tofu. Save
A plate of air fryer tofu. | sarahmeal.com

Storage Tips

Store leftover tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It will lose some crispness but retain great flavor. To refresh, reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp it up again without sogginess.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have toasted sesame oil, you can use a mild olive oil but you will miss out on that signature sesame flavor. For the sauce, mayonnaise can be swapped for vegan mayo to keep it plant-based. Use tamari for a gluten-free soy sauce option.

Serving Suggestions

This tofu shines served with fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the sauce. Pair it with air fryer broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts for a balanced, flavor-packed meal.

Pro Tips

  • Make sure to pat tofu completely dry before marinating or coating or you won’t get the crispiness you want.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give tofu enough space so hot air can circulate.
  • Taste the sauce before tossing tofu and adjust the heat level by adding sriracha gradually to suit your preference.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of tofu works best for air frying?

Firm tofu is ideal since it holds its shape well and crisps up nicely without falling apart during cooking.

→ Why is cornstarch used on the tofu?

Cornstarch creates a thin, crispy crust that stays light and crunchy, absorbing less oil than flour alternatives.

→ How can I ensure the tofu gets evenly crispy?

Arrange tofu cubes with space between them in the air fryer basket to allow hot air to circulate, and turn them halfway through cooking.

→ Can I customize the marinade and sauce flavors?

Absolutely! Try different soy-based marinades or sauces like Thai peanut, BBQ, or a ketchup-gochujang blend for varied tastes.

→ How long does air frying take for crispy tofu?

Typically about 15 to 20 minutes at 400°F, flipping the tofu halfway to ensure even browning and crunch.

→ What sides pair well with air-fried tofu?

Steamed jasmine rice, air-fried broccoli, or spiced Brussels sprouts complement the crispy tofu perfectly.

Crispy Air Fryer Tofu

Golden-brown tofu with crispy crust, marinated and air-fried to perfection, served with a bold, spicy sauce.

Preparation Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Duration
40 minutes
Created By: Sarah

Recipe Category: Side Dishes

Level of Difficulty: Simple

Cuisine Style: Fusion

Servings Yield: 4 Portion Size (Approximately 4 servings)

Diet Preferences: Vegetarian-Friendly, Gluten-Free Option

What You'll Need

→ Tofu and Marinade

Ingredient 01 400 g firm tofu, cut into 3.8 cm cubes
Ingredient 02 30 ml reduced-sodium soy sauce
Ingredient 03 10 ml toasted sesame oil
Ingredient 04 2.5 ml garlic powder
Ingredient 05 2.5 ml hot or smoked paprika
Ingredient 06 2.5 ml onion powder

→ Coating

Ingredient 07 60 g cornstarch
Ingredient 08 5 ml kosher salt, plus additional as needed
Ingredient 09 1.25 ml freshly ground black pepper
Ingredient 10 Olive oil cooking spray

→ Sauce

Ingredient 11 2 cloves garlic, grated
Ingredient 12 60 ml mayonnaise
Ingredient 13 60 ml Thai sweet chili sauce
Ingredient 14 30 ml sriracha

→ To Serve

Ingredient 15 Steamed white rice
Ingredient 16 Sliced scallions
Ingredient 17 Sesame seeds

How to Make It

Instruction 01

In a large bowl, gently toss tofu cubes with soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Cover and refrigerate for 20 to 60 minutes to infuse flavors.

Instruction 02

In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add marinated tofu and toss gently to evenly coat, then shake off excess.

Instruction 03

Arrange tofu in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, leaving space for air circulation. Spray lightly with olive oil cooking spray. Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 15 minutes, turning once halfway through until golden and crisp. Work in batches if necessary.

Instruction 04

Whisk grated garlic, mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a large bowl. Season with salt to taste. Toss the hot fried tofu gently in the sauce until fully coated.

Instruction 05

Plate tofu over steamed white rice and garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds before serving.

Additional Tips

  1. For a crispier crust, ensure excess moisture is patted off tofu before marinating and shake off all excess cornstarch prior to air frying.
  2. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; proper spacing allows even browning and optimal crispness.

Essential Tools

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Tongs

Allergy Details

Always review ingredient labels for allergens, and consult a professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains soy and egg (in mayonnaise)

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

These nutritional details are for informational purposes and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 280
  • Fat Content: 18 grams
  • Carbohydrate Content: 20 grams
  • Protein Content: 15 grams