Air Fryer Tofu
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My air fryer tofu features crispy marinated tofu bites that cook up in under 15 minutes. It’s healthy, easy to customize, and guarantees perfectly cooked tofu.
I try to cook one or two meat-free meals for my partner and me each week, and my air fryer tofu recipe is always a favorite. Tofu can be tricky to cook correctly, but thanks to the air fryer, it yields the best texture: truly crispy on the outside and tender and soft in the middle.
I’ve been cooking tofu for over twenty years, so I knew that to achieve a crispy exterior, the key is to include some fat and to use firm or extra-firm tofu (no cornstarch!). I just needed to get the right time and temperature, and after about 3 batches, I found that 10 minutes at 390°F was the sweet spot.
Table of Contents
Why I love this recipe
- Healthy. Tofu is naturally high in protein, low in saturated fat, and even rich in fiber. Paired with some rice and veggies, it’s one of the most balanced, plant-based meals I make.
- Quick. From prep to plate, this tofu cooks up in less than 15 minutes.
- Easy to pair. Serve this tofu as the main protein source for almost anything- I’ve used it for rice bowls, salads, and even sandwiches. I’ve even added it to my air fryer fried rice.
- Versatile. I keep my marinade mix very simple, but I’ve included three of my favorite flavor combinations to keep things exciting.
Key Ingredients
Here’s what goes into air fryer tofu, along with my kitchen notes. Full measurements are in the recipe card below.
- Tofu. Use extra-firm tofu as it holds onto the sauce better and yields a crisper exterior. If you only have firm tofu, squeeze out the moisture and/or dry it for several hours before slicing.
- Oil. I use both olive oil and sesame oil. Olive oil helps create the crust while sesame oil adds the distinctly Asian flavor that makes this tofu taste restaurant-quality. I did test it with just olive oil, and it was noticeably less flavorful.
- Soy sauce. I consider this my non-negotiable sauce for almost every tofu dish as it adds umami depth and helps the seasonings stick. Low-sodium soy sauce and tamari will also work.
- Spices. As mentioned earlier, I’m keeping the spices simple to let the tofu shine. Just some garlic powder, ground ginger, and kosher salt.
How to make crispy air fryer tofu
Step 1 – Prep the tofu. Cut the tofu into even bite-size pieces (aka tofu nuggets). Place them on paper towels or clean kitchen towels to absorb excess moisture.
Step 2 – Season and air fry. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, and spices. Add the tofu to the bowl and mix until fully coated.
Step 3- Air fry. Arrange the tofu in the greased air fryer basket and cook it for 10 minutes.
Arman’s recipe tips
- Press the tofu before cutting it to remove excess liquid and make super-crispy air-fried tofu (if you notice excess liquid). You can either use a tofu press or my cheat method: place 1-2 large (and heavy) pots on top and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Always add the tofu in a single layer to the air fryer basket. This way, the tofu cubes will brown evenly on all sides. You may also need to cook it in batches.
- Toss the tofu in cornstarch or arrowroot starch (arrowroot powder) before air frying for extra crispy tofu. This is a great idea if you’ll be adding the tofu to soups or stir-fries. I don’t include this in my original ingredient list (where many other recipes do) because my oil-seasoning ratio provides plenty of crispiness.
- For toaster oven air fryers, add an extra 2 to 3 minutes and make sure you’re not overcrowding. The airflow is more restricted than in a regular basket air fryer.
Variations
- Use different spices, such as paprika, black pepper, onion powder, or cayenne pepper. I love the paprika/cayenne combo for a spicy, smoky hit, which works well in rice bowls.
- Marinate the tofu. My easy tofu marinade was created with this recipe in mind.
- Add a glaze. Once the tofu is cooked, I sometimes brush it with an umami-forward sauce (think eel sauce or bulgogi sauce) and air fry it once more for a few minutes to caramelize and create a glaze.
Storage instructions
To store. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To freeze. Place the cooked and cooled tofu in a ziplock bag and freeze it for up to 2 months.
Reheating. Either reheat the tofu in the air fryer for a few minutes (at 375°F), or cook it on a non-stick skillet with half a teaspoon of oil.
Frequently asked questions
I highly recommend pressing the tofu before air-frying it if you notice there’s excess liquid (some brands, like Mori Nu, don’t need it). Pressing it helps remove excess moisture, resulting in crispier tofu.
The most common culprit is excess moisture. Make sure you’re pressing it thoroughly before seasoning. Overcrowding the basket is the second most common issue, as the tofu steams rather than crisps when pieces are touching.
15-Minute Air Fryer Tofu
Video
Ingredients
- 15 ounces tofu extra firm
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 190C/375F.
- Cube the tofu into bite-sized pieces. Place the tofu on a dishtowel or paper towel to soak up excess moisture. If there's significant moisture, press the tofu using a tofu press or wedging it between two saucepans.
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, and salt. Add the tofu and mix well, until all the tofu is coated.
- Generously grease the air fryer basket and add a single layer of tofu to it. Air fry for 10 minutes, shaking the basket several times throughout.
- Once the tofu is golden brown, remove it from the basket and repeat the process until all the tofu is cooked up.
Notes
Nutrition
More delicious ways to enjoy tofu
- Baked tofu– I’ve had this recipe on my website since 2014, and it’s one of my first.
- Pan-fried tofu– I use a similar seasoning blend to this, and it’s just as fast.
- Salt and pepper tofu– This recipe took so much recipe testing to get right, but I was stubborn because it’s my favorite restaurant dish.
- Sofritas– I was inspired by Chipotle, but adding way more flavor.
Originally published March 2023
I’ve made this numerous times now and it’s delicious. Even my husband couldn’t believe tofu could be this good. Thanks for another great recipe!
This turned out really good and tasty
Love to hear that, Jaycee. Glad you enjoyed the tofu.
Can I also make soy in air fryer? Like soaked in water and then bake?
Hi Mario- I replied via email but let me know if you need clarification 🙂
This is the best air fryer tofu recipe out there- it’s SO crispy and addictive.
Thanks, Sonja!
I never tried tofu before as I am not vegan. But always wanted to give it a try. Maybe I like it!
This is my new favourite recipe! I love it. So tasty and a lot less calories than the fried option!
Thanks, Bianca! 🙂
I have a toaster oven air fryer and cannot get my tofu to ever be cripsy. I always squeeze the water out. Any suggestions on a non basket type of air fryer?
Hmmm adding too much seasoning or oil can have the opposite effect. Have you maybe overseasoned?
What would be substituted for soy or sesame? Yes garlic, onion?? Thanks cheryl
Soy sauce- try tamari.