Follow these steps to make very crispy tofu in your air fryer, finished with a simple sweet chili glaze.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:35 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:50 min
Yield:3 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Air Frying
Cuisine:Asian Inspired
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
1 block (14 ounces) extra-firm tofu
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon neutral oil (like canola or vegetable)
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Instructions
Press the tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove excess water. Wrap the block in paper towels or a clean cloth and place a heavy object on top.
Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes.
In a medium bowl, toss the tofu cubes with the oil until lightly coated.
In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture over the oiled tofu and toss gently until all pieces are evenly coated. This coating helps achieve crispiness.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Place the coated tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary.
Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
While the tofu cooks, prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
Once the tofu is cooked, transfer it to a clean bowl. Pour the glaze over the hot tofu and toss quickly to coat every piece evenly.
Serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crispiness, do not skip the pressing step. Removing water is key.
If you do not have cornstarch, arrowroot powder works as a substitute for coating.
To prevent sticking, ensure your air fryer basket is lightly oiled or use parchment paper designed for air fryers.