Crispy Air Fryer Tofu is the perfect way to get that golden, crunchy texture without all the oil from traditional frying. This dish features tofu cubes that come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with just the right amount of seasoning to make every bite tasty and satisfying.
I love making this tofu because it’s super easy and quick, yet feels like a treat. Using the air fryer means less mess and less guilt, and I don’t have to wait for a big pot of oil to heat up. Plus, it holds together really well, so it’s great for tossing in salads, bowls, or just snacking right out of the air fryer.
One of my favorite ways to serve this crispy tofu is with a dipping sauce, like a simple soy sauce mixed with a touch of honey and garlic. It’s such a satisfying little crunch and the perfect protein boost for any meal. Honestly, once you try air fryer tofu, it might just become your new go-to snack or side dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Firm or Extra-Firm Tofu: This is the best type of tofu for crispiness because it holds its shape well. If you can’t find extra-firm, just press your tofu longer to remove more water.
Soy Sauce: Adds flavor and a little saltiness. For gluten-free, tamari is a great swap. Low-sodium soy sauce works too if you want it less salty.
Cornstarch: This helps make the tofu golden and crispy in the air fryer. You can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as substitutes. Avoid flour, as it won’t crisp as well.
Sesame Oil: Gives a nice nutty flavor, but you can use any light oil you have. It’s optional but recommended for aroma.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and smoked paprika add extra flavor depth. Feel free to switch these up with chili powder or curry powder for a different twist.
How Do You Get Tofu Super Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Crispiness comes from removing moisture and coating the tofu properly:
- Press the tofu well: Removing water before cooking is key. Use a tofu press or place tofu between plates with heavy cans on top for at least 20 minutes.
- Marinate lightly: Soy sauce and oil add flavor and moisture, but avoid soaking tofu too long or it can get soggy.
- Coat with cornstarch: This step creates a crunchy crust when air fried.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Leave space between tofu cubes to let hot air circulate and crisp up all sides.
- Flip or shake halfway: This ensures even browning on all sides.
Following these simple steps will give you crispy, flavorful tofu every time—without deep frying or a lot of oil.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Tofu press or weights: Essential for removing excess water so the tofu gets crispy. I find it helps the tofu hold its shape better.
- Cutting board and knife: For cutting the tofu into even cubes, ensuring they cook uniformly.
- Large mixing bowl: To toss the tofu with marinade, seasonings, and cornstarch easily.
- Air fryer: The star appliance that makes the tofu crispy without lots of oil. Any size works for small batches.
- Silicone brush or spray oil: To lightly oil the basket or tofu for extra crispiness.
- Small bowl: For mixing the dipping sauce, if you choose to serve one.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Spice it up: Add chili powder or cayenne to the coating for some heat. It’s great with spicy dipping sauces.
- Herb flavors: Toss in dried oregano, thyme, or curry powder for different taste profiles.
- For extra crunch: Mix in crushed nuts or panko bread crumbs with the starch coating.
- Sweet and savory: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup after baking, or toss tofu in a glaze of soy and brown sugar for a different flavor.
Crispy Air Fryer Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (optional, for extra crispiness)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 35 minutes. It includes 20 minutes to press the tofu, about 10-15 minutes to marinate and prepare, and 15-20 minutes to cook the tofu in the air fryer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Press the Tofu
Start by draining your tofu. Press it for at least 20 minutes to remove excess water—this helps the tofu get crispy later. You can use a tofu press or simply place the block between two plates and put something heavy on top.
2. Cut and Marinate
Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes. In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika if you like, and black pepper. Gently toss the tofu cubes in this mixture and let them soak up the flavor for 10-15 minutes.
3. Coat with Cornstarch
Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu cubes. Toss gently to coat them evenly—this helps create a nice, crispy crust when air fried.
4. Air Fry the Tofu
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Place the tofu cubes in a single layer without crowding them so air can circulate. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket or turning the tofu halfway through, until golden and crispy.
5. Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
While the tofu is cooking, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, chili flakes, and minced garlic in a small bowl for a tasty dipping sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once crispy, transfer the tofu to a plate. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve warm alongside your dipping sauce or add the tofu to salads, bowl meals, or enjoy as a snack!
Can I Use Frozen Tofu for This Recipe?
Yes! Frozen tofu has a chewier texture that crisps up nicely. Just thaw it completely, press out any excess moisture, and then follow the recipe as usual.
How Should I Store Leftover Crispy Tofu?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop the tofu back in the air fryer for a few minutes to refresh its crispiness.
Can I Skip the Dipping Sauce?
Absolutely! The tofu is flavorful on its own, but the dipping sauce adds a nice zing. You can also toss the tofu in your favorite sauce after cooking for variety.
What If I Don’t Have an Air Fryer?
You can bake the tofu in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, although it might not be quite as crispy as air-fried.