Preparing the tofu
To achieve the perfect texture and flavor in your air fryer tofu, the first step is to properly prepare the tofu. Start by selecting the right type of tofu. For this recipe, I recommend using extra-firm tofu, as it holds its shape well during cooking and provides a satisfying bite.
Begin by draining the tofu. Remove it from its packaging and discard any excess liquid. Next, you’ll want to press the tofu to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial because it allows the tofu to absorb more of the marinade and helps it crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
To press the tofu, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place it on a flat surface. Then, place a heavy object, such as a cast-iron skillet or a stack of cookbooks, on top of the wrapped tofu. Let it sit for at least 15-30 minutes. If you’re short on time, you can use a tofu press, which is a handy tool designed specifically for this purpose and can speed up the process.
Once the tofu has been pressed, cut it into your desired shape. Common options include cubes, rectangles, or even thin slices, depending on how you plan to use the tofu in your dish. Keep in mind that smaller pieces will cook faster and become crispier, while larger pieces will have a softer interior.
With the tofu now prepped and ready, you’re all set to move on to the next step: seasoning and marinating.
Seasoning and marinating
Now that your tofu is prepped and ready, it’s time to infuse it with flavor through seasoning and marinating. This step is where you can get creative, tailoring the tofu to suit your taste preferences or the dish you’re planning to serve it with. The key to a delicious air fryer tofu lies in a well-balanced marinade that complements the natural flavor of the tofu while adding depth and complexity.
Ingredients for the marinade:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or your favorite hot sauce (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder (optional, for extra crispiness)
To create the marinade, simply whisk together all the ingredients in a bowl until well combined. The soy sauce provides a savory umami base, while the sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor. The vinegar brings a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup or honey, and the garlic and ginger add aromatic depth. If you like a bit of heat, the sriracha will give the tofu a nice spicy edge. The cornstarch or arrowroot powder is optional but highly recommended if you want your tofu to have an extra crispy exterior.
Once your marinade is ready, it’s time to coat the tofu. Place the tofu pieces in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag, then pour the marinade over them. Gently toss or shake the tofu to ensure each piece is evenly coated. For the best results, let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the tofu. If you have more time, you can marinate the tofu for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, which will result in even more flavorful tofu.
After marinating, remove the tofu from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. If you used cornstarch or arrowroot powder in your marinade, you’ll notice that the tofu has developed a slightly sticky coating, which will help it crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. Now, you’re ready to move on to the final step: cooking the tofu in the air fryer.
Cooking in the air fryer
With your tofu marinated and ready, it’s time to cook it to crispy perfection in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the tofu starts cooking immediately when placed in the basket, helping to achieve that coveted crispy exterior.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent the tofu from sticking. Arrange the tofu pieces in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and prevent the tofu from getting as crispy as you’d like. If necessary, cook the tofu in batches to ensure each piece has enough space.
Cook the tofu for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on all sides. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of your tofu pieces and the specific model of your air fryer, so keep an eye on the tofu as it cooks. You’re looking for a golden-brown color and a crispy texture on the outside, while the inside remains tender.
If you prefer your tofu extra crispy, you can increase the cooking time by a few minutes, but be careful not to overcook it, as this can cause the tofu to become too dry. Once the tofu is done, carefully remove it from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula.
Your air fryer tofu is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it immediately while it’s still hot and crispy. This versatile tofu can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, grain bowls, stir-fries, or even as a protein-packed snack on its own. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop the tofu back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore its crispiness.