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Crispy-Crunchy Tofu in the Air Fryer Recipe

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4 from 8 reviews

This recipe shows you how to make perfectly crispy and crunchy tofu using an air fryer in just 30 minutes. Firm or extra firm tofu pieces are soaked in salted boiling water, then coated with a flavorful mix of avocado oil, tamari, spices, and arrowroot starch before air frying. The result is golden, crunchy tofu that makes a delicious topping for dinner bowls, salads, or as a snack with your favorite dipping sauces.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2-3 servings

Ingredients

Tofu and Soaking

  • 1 block (12 oz/350 grams) firm or extra firm tofu
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 teaspoons salt

Seasoning & Coating

  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon Tamari
  • Ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch

Cooking

  • Spray oil (for air fryer basket)

Instructions

  1. Drain and Tear Tofu: Drain the block of tofu and tear it into approximately 2-inch pieces. Place these tofu pieces into a medium bowl.
  2. Soak Tofu: In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and 2 teaspoons of salt to a boil. Pour the salted boiling water over the tofu pieces and let them soak for 5 minutes. This step helps to remove excess moisture and infuse flavor.
  3. Drain and Dry: Drain the tofu soaking water, then quickly rinse the tofu pieces under cold water. Thoroughly blot dry the tofu pieces using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Also dry the bowl you soaked them in to avoid excess moisture during seasoning.
  4. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the tofu for cooking.
  5. Season the Tofu: In the medium bowl, toss the tofu pieces with 2 tablespoons of avocado oil, 1 teaspoon Tamari, and ground black pepper to taste so that they are evenly coated.
  6. Add Spices and Arrowroot: Sprinkle ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, and 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch over the tofu. Toss again vigorously until the seasoning and starch evenly coat the tofu with no visible white powdery bits remaining.
  7. Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  8. Air Fry Tofu: Place the coated tofu pieces spaced out in the air fryer basket. Set the timer for 15 minutes and insert the basket into the air fryer. Every 5 minutes, remove the basket and shake it gently to ensure even browning and crisping of all tofu pieces. The tofu is done when golden and crisp on all sides.

Notes

  • You can substitute arrowroot starch with cornstarch if preferred.
  • Feel free to customize the spice mix according to your taste or what you’re serving the tofu with. Examples include za’atar and sumac blends or chipotle chili powder with cumin.
  • Make sure to dry the tofu thoroughly after soaking to get the crispiest results.
  • Shaking the tofu pieces during air frying ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Vegan, Vegetarian
  • Diet: Vegan

Find it online: https://monicarecipes.com/crispy-crunchy-tofu-in-the-air-fryer-recipe/