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Crispy tofu recipe in a white bowl - This vegan air fried tofu tastes like it's straight from the deep fryer (while being way lower in fat).
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4.65 from 514 ratings

The Very Best Air Fryer Tofu (No Cornstarch!)

No cornstarch is needed to make this flavorful air fryer tofu! With hundreds of 5-star reviews, this foolproof tofu will be a hit!
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Side Dishes
Cuisine: American
Diet: Diabetic, Gluten Free, Halal, Hindu, Kosher, Low Calorie, Low Fat, Low Lactose, Vegan, Vegetarian
Keyword: air fried tofu, air fryer tofu, crispy tofu
Diet: Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Low Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian
Time: 45 minutes or less
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Sarah Bond

Ingredients

  • 1 16-oz block extra-firm tofu 453 g
  • 2 Tbsp soy sauce 30 mL
  • 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil* 15 mL
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil 15 mL
  • 1 clove garlic minced

Instructions

  • Press: Press 1 16-oz block extra-firm tofu for at least 15 minutes, using either a tofu press or by setting a heavy pan on top of it and letting the moisture drain. When finished, cut tofu into bite-sized blocks and transfer to a bowl.
    Rows of evenly cut white cubes, resembling air fried tofu, arranged neatly on a sheet of parchment paper.
  • Flavor: Combine 2 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil*, 1 Tbsp olive oil, and 1 clove garlic (minced) in a small bowl. Drizzle over tofu and toss to coat. Let tofu marinate for an additional 15 minutes.
    Pouring marinade over pieces of tofu.
  • Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Add tofu blocks to your air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally to promote even cooking.
    Blocks of tofu in the air fryer.

Video

Notes

*You can replace the sesame oil for olive oil if needed.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 to 5 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer or a pan for a few minutes. 
For even crispier tofu, use super-firm vacuum-sealed tofu. You can also freeze then thaw the tofu before pressing it for a better texture. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 165kcal | Carbohydrates: 3.3g | Protein: 11.1g | Fat: 13.2g | Saturated Fat: 1.9g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 460mg | Potassium: 178mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 0.2g | Calcium: 460mg | Iron: 7mg
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