The BEST Crispy Air Fryer Tofu

Ingredients

• 1 block Firm Tofu (14‑oz (400 g) block, not water‑packed; press to remove excess moisture)
• 2 Tbsp Vegetable Oil (Neutral oil for coating)
• 1/4 cup Cornstarch (Creates the crisp crust)
• 1/2 tsp Salt (Season to taste)
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground preferred)
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/2 tsp Paprika
• 1/8 tsp Cayenne Pepper (Adjust for heat preference)
• 1/4 tsp Turmeric
• 1 can Non‑Stick Cooking Spray (For air fryer basket)

Instructions

1. Press the Tofu

   Remove the tofu from its package, pat dry with paper towels, then place it between two clean towels and set a heavy cast‑iron pan or tofu press on top for about 10‑15 minutes to squeeze out excess water.

   Time: PT15M

2. Cube the Tofu

   After pressing, cut the tofu into uniform 1‑inch cubes on a cutting board using a sharp knife.

   Time: PT5M

3. Season and Coat

   In a mixing bowl, combine the tofu cubes, 2 Tbsp vegetable oil, 1/4 cup cornstarch, and all listed spices. Toss gently until every piece is evenly coated.

   Time: PT5M

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

   Spray the air‑fryer basket with non‑stick cooking spray and preheat to 400°F for about 3 minutes (skip if your model does not require preheating).

   Time: PT3M

   Temperature: 400°F

5. Air Fry the Tofu

   Arrange the coated tofu in a single layer in the basket (avoid stacking). Air fry at 400°F for 13 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through (around 6‑7 minutes) to turn the pieces.

   Time: PT13M

   Temperature: 400°F

6. Serve

   Remove the tofu, let it rest for 2 minutes, then serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as soy sauce, sweet chili, or a sesame‑ginger glaze.

   Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

170

Protein

10 g

Carbohydrates

7.5 g

Fat

6.8 g

Fiber

0.5 g