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Air Fryer Tofu

This recipe offers a straightforward method for creating flavorful, crispy air-fried tofu. By pressing the tofu and marinating it in a simple blend of low-sodium soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and sesame oil, you achieve an excellent texture and taste. It's a versatile, healthy protein ideal for various dishes.
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Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: lunch/dinner
Cuisine: asian
Calories: 481.4
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 8 ounces firm tofu
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce such as Bragg®
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large clove garlic finely chopped
  • 0.5 teaspoon sesame oil

Equipment

  • 1 Air Fryer
  • 1 Tofu Press Essential for removing excess water from tofu
  • 1 Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Chef's Knife

Method
 

  1. Press the firm tofu for at least 30-60 minutes to remove excess water, using a tofu press or by wrapping it in paper towels and weighing it down.
  2. Once pressed, cut the tofu into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking and browning.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, olive oil, finely chopped garlic, and sesame oil to create the aromatic marinade.
  4. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade, gently tossing to coat them evenly; let them marinate for at least 15-30 minutes for flavor infusion.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure it's at the ideal cooking temperature.
  6. Arrange the marinated tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd; cook in batches if needed.
  7. Air fry the tofu for an initial 10 minutes, then carefully open the basket and flip each tofu cube.
  8. Continue air frying for another 10-15 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown and crispy to your desired texture.
  9. Periodically check for desired crispness; cooking times may vary slightly based on your specific air fryer model and the size of the tofu cubes.
  10. Serve the crispy air-fried tofu immediately as a protein-rich snack, a flavorful side dish, or as an addition to your favorite salads, grain bowls, or stir-fries.

Notes

Thoroughly pressing the tofu is paramount; this step removes excess moisture, which is the key to achieving a truly crispy texture in the air fryer. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even several hours, to fully absorb the savory flavors. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and even crisping; cook in batches if necessary. Always preheat your air fryer for optimal results. Consider adding a touch of grated fresh ginger or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra layer of complexity.