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–+ servings
overhead shot of tofu cubes in air fryer
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5 from 28 votes

How to Make Crispy Tofu

Crispy tofu made in the air fryer is a simple, versatile option for vegetarian meals.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time13 minutes
Pressing Time30 minutes
Total Time23 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Calories: 94kcal
Author: Annie Holmes

Ingredients

  • 12 oz block extra firm tofu (350 g)
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil (see note 1)
  • 2 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  • Press tofu:
    Sandwich between paper towels and two plates. Place a heavy object (like a 28 oz can) on the top plate. See photo in post for a visual. Press for 30 minutes or more.
    tofu pressed between paper towels, plates and with a jar of peanut butter on top
  • Heat air fryer to 200°C/ 390°F.
  • Cut tofu into ½ inch or ¾ inch cubes.
    tofu cubes on blue plate
  • Toss tofu in avocado oil, then in cornstarch.
  • Toss tofu in all remaining spices until evenly coated, then place in the air fryer basket.
    overhead shot of tofu cubes in air fryer
  • Cook for 13 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes, or until cooked to your liking.
  • Tofu is ready when it is firm on the outside. It should still be soft on the inside, as it hardens as it cools.
  • Enjoy immediately!

Notes

1- Other high smoke point oils that may be suitable for air fryer tofu include: peanut oil, grapeseed oil, sunflower seed oil and vegetable oil.
2- Tofu may be pressed 3-4 days before cooking and stored in an air tight container in the fridge
Storage
Crispy tofu does not keep well and is best served fresh.

Nutrition

Serving: 1/4 batch | Calories: 94kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 346mg | Potassium: 153mg | Fiber: 0g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 490IU | Calcium: 26mg | Iron: 1.2mg