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Golden crispy air fryer tofu cubes beside an open basket-style air fryer

Crispy Air Fryer Tofu

Golden air fryer tofu with crisp edges and a tender center, made with extra-firm tofu, soy sauce, a light cornstarch coating, and simple seasoning.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 14 to 16 oz extra-firm tofu
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Equipment

  • Air Fryer

Method
 

  1. Drain water-packed extra-firm tofu and press it for about 15 minutes. Pat the tofu dry. If using super-firm tofu, a thorough pat-dry may be enough.
  2. Cut the tofu into roughly 3/4- to 1-inch cubes.
  3. Place the tofu in a bowl. Add the soy sauce or tamari and neutral oil, then toss gently until lightly coated.
  4. Add the cornstarch, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Toss gently until the tofu is evenly coated and no large dry starch patches remain.
  5. Arrange the tofu in a loose single layer in the air fryer basket.
  6. Air fry at 390°F for 15 minutes, shaking or turning the tofu halfway through. Start checking at 14 minutes and add about 1 minute if the edges still look pale.
  7. Serve immediately for the crispest texture, or add wet sauce after cooking.

Notes

Water-packed extra-firm tofu benefits from about 15 minutes of pressing. Super-firm tofu may only need a thorough pat-dry. Keep the tofu in a single layer and add wet sauces after cooking for the crispiest texture.