Air Fried Tofu (No Cornstarch!)

As a nutritionist and sensory scientist, tofu is one of the ingredients I’ve spent the most time testing, both for its nutritional value and for the mechanics of what makes it actually taste good. The honest truth is that tofu’s reputation problem isn’t about flavor. It’s about texture. Tofu is bland and soft by default, and most cooking methods don’t do enough to fix either problem.

The air fryer changes that.

I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and what makes it work is the combination of pressing, marinating, and dry circulating heat. The air fryer pulls moisture away from all sides at once, which produces a crispy exterior you can’t replicate in a pan without constant attention. No cornstarch needed; the pressing and heat do the work!

Pair it with my Marry Me Chickpeas or toss them on a Veggie Wrap for a complete meal!

It’s the conundrum every tofu-eater has had at some point…“How do I make my tofu taste better?”

Well wonder no more, friends! I’ve unlocked the secret to the very best tofu…air frying! I’ve been cooking tofu in the air fryer multiple times per week for years, so you can be sure this tofu will turn out perfectly for you!

Not to be dramatic but this air fryer tofu is life-changing

• It’s a bit crispy on the outside but pillowy on the inside
• It doesn’t rely on cornstarch to make it crispy (I’ve got three tricks that help give it that perfect texture!)

Air Fried Tofu Ingredients

This crispy tofu has two main components: the tofu (of course) and the marinade (big yum). Jump to the recipe card for measurements!

• Tofu: Use extra-firm tofu, which has more water squeezed out of it than the soft or silken varieties. Less water = more crisp!
• Soy sauce: Soy (or tamari for gluten-free) adds a rich and salty flavor that levels up your tofu. Feel free to use a low-sodium soy sauce.
• Oil: We’ll use a blend of sesame and olive oil to add flavor and enhance the crispiness. I wouldn’t recommend cutting out the oil completely, but you could use sprayable oil if you’re looking to reduce fat.
• Garlic: I use this for quick and simple flavor in the marinade. Feel free to go crazy with it and at your own blend of spices or herbs!

How to Cook Tofu in Air Fryer

The key to crispy air fryer tofu is removing as much moisture as possible before it hits the basket. Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes, marinate after pressing so the flavor actually absorbs, then arrange in a single layer in the basket so air can circulate on all sides. Shake occasionally during cooking for even browning. Jump to the full recipe for printable instructions and step-by-step photos!

How Long to Air Fry Tofu

At 375°F (190°C), tofu takes 10 to 15 minutes depending on cube size and your air fryer model. Check at the 10-minute mark — it’s done when the edges are deep golden brown and the surface feels firm when pressed lightly.

@liveeatlearn

No cornstarch is needed to make this flavorful air fryer tofu! COMMENT “tofu” for the full written guide to making this next-level tofu 🔥 1 block extra-firm tofu 2 Tbsp soy sauce 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil 1 Tbsp olive oil 1 clove garlic Air fry at 375 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes. #airfryerrecipes #airfryeroven #airfryerrecipe #airfryercooking #airfryer #tofurecipes #tofulover

♬ Circles – Instrumental – Post Malone

Secrets to air fryer tofu

There are actually three secrets to making crispy tofu without cornstarch or bread crumbs.

Secret 1 – Press the tofu: Pressing your tofu before cooking with it removes excess moisture (which would otherwise make for soggy, not-at-all-crispy tofu). I recently got this tofu press and absolutely love it, but you can also press your tofu by setting a heavy pan (like a cast iron) on top of your tofu and letting the moisture drain out.

Secret 2 – Air frying: My cooking obsession and the ultimate way to cook anything that needs to be crispy, air frying! I use this air fryer which has held up well with the many (many) kitchen experiments I’ve thrown in it.

Secret 3 – Freeze your tofu: This is optional but highly recommended. Freezing and then thawing your tofu before cooking with it improves the texture and allows it to soak up even more flavor from the marinade!

How to Store Air Fryer Tofu

Store leftover tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 to 5 days.

To reheat, skip the microwave. A few minutes back in the air fryer or a hot skillet restores most of the crispiness. The microwave will reheat it but leaves it soft and slightly spongy.

Cooked tofu also freezes well if you want to batch cook. Freeze in a single layer on a sheet pan first, then transfer to a bag or container once frozen so the pieces don’t stick together. Reheat straight from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F for 5 to 7 minutes.

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