Crispy Air Fryer Tofu (Print-Friendly Version)
Golden-brown tofu with crispy crust, marinated and air-fried to perfection, served with a bold, spicy sauce.
# What You'll Need:
→ Tofu and Marinade
01 -
400 g firm tofu, cut into 3.8 cm cubes
02 -
30 ml reduced-sodium soy sauce
03 -
10 ml toasted sesame oil
04 -
2.5 ml garlic powder
05 -
2.5 ml hot or smoked paprika
06 -
2.5 ml onion powder
→ Coating
07 -
60 g cornstarch
08 -
5 ml kosher salt, plus additional as needed
09 -
1.25 ml freshly ground black pepper
10 -
Olive oil cooking spray
→ Sauce
11 -
2 cloves garlic, grated
12 -
60 ml mayonnaise
13 -
60 ml Thai sweet chili sauce
14 -
30 ml sriracha
→ To Serve
15 -
Steamed white rice
16 -
Sliced scallions
17 -
Sesame seeds
# How to Make It:
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.
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.
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.
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.
05 -
Plate tofu over steamed white rice and garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds before serving.
# Additional Tips:
01 -
For a crispier crust, ensure excess moisture is patted off tofu before marinating and shake off all excess cornstarch prior to air frying.
02 -
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; proper spacing allows even browning and optimal crispness.