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Crispy air fryer tofu on a place with a sprinkle of sliced onions over top.

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Tofu in 10 Minutes!

Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Author: Tracy Halasz
Cost: $3.00

Equipment

  • air fryer

Ingredients

  • 12 ounce block of tofu (extra firm)
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce (tamari)
  • 2-3 teaspoons sambal oelek
  • ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ - ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon coarse black pepper
  • 1 ½ tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)
  • 1 - 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions

  • Press or squeeze excess moisture from the extra firm tofu. Cut the tofu block into bite size pieces (photos in post).
  • Transfer the tofu pieces to a large bowl. Sprinkle with all marinade ingredients (except the nutritional yeast and cornstarch). Toss to coat.
  • Sprinkle the nutritional yeast over the tofu (if using) and toss to coat. Then finish with the cornstarch - shake the bowl/toss to thoroughly coat the tofu (no dry spots).
  • Place the tofu in the basket of the air fryer in a single layer.
  • Air fry the tofu at 380°F for 6 minutes, shaking the basket to cook the tofu pieces evenly. Cook for another 2-4 minutes to taste.
  • Remove the tofu from the air fryer and enjoy!

Notes

Work in batches: Don't crowd the air fryer basket - leave room for the hot air to circulate and sear the surface of the tofu! I make this recipe in 2 batches in my air fryer.
Don't overcook the tofu (overcooked tofu is rubbery)!: Depending on the size of tofu cubes and how hot your air fryer is, the cooking time can vary by several minutes more or less.
Tofu cooking time: For the smaller (hash brown size) tofu, I recommend turning the air fryer to 370ºF and cooking for 6-8 minutes (shake half way through).
Does perfectly cooked tofu exist?: Yes, you're in control! These are the cooking times and temperatures that work best for my air fryer and our taste, you may want to cook for longer. People new to tofu often prefer their tofu to be cooked a little longer aka firmer. Always taste as you go!
Flavor profiles: Switch up the seasonings to create any flavor crispy tofu you enjoy.