Tofu in an air fryer comes out crispy outside and tender inside. This easy method makes flavorful tofu perfect for bowls, salads, wraps, and quick meals.
19.4ouncesblock of extra firm tofu550 grams net weight)
2 ½tablespoonsall-purpose flouruse 2 to 3 tablespoons
1tablespooncornstarch
¼teaspoonkosher saltadd more to taste
¼teaspoonground black pepperadd more to taste
¼teaspoongranulated garlic
¼teaspoonsmoked sweet paprika
1 to 2tablespoonsoilfor greasing tray and seasoned tofu
Instructions
Completely drain tofu and dry with paper towels. Place the tofu on a paper-lined plate and keep changing the paper towels.
Pre-heat Air Fryer to 396°F (202°C). Set at 40 minutes for 2 trays.
Slice the block of tofu into 32 squares.
In a small bowl, combine all the dry ingredients - flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic, and smoked sweet paprika.
Transfer the flour mixture to a plate and coat each tofu piece.
After coating all sides of tofu with the seasoned flour, shake off the excess mixture and transfer the coated tofu on a well-greased Air Fryer tray.
Place coated tofu on a single layer and provide enough space for air to flow.
Slowly insert the tray into the middle cooking chamber, near the rotisserie catch if using an Air Fryer Oven. Place the second tray below the first tray, above the drip tray.
If using an Air Fryer basket, place the coated tofu on a crisper plate, then follow accordingly.
Air Fry for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping each tofu halfway through. There is no need to wait for the “turn food” reminder provided by the Air Fryer Oven.
Transfer the second tray into the middle cooking chamber after removing the first tray, and continue to Air Fry for 10 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Serve these Air Fryer Crispy Tofu with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
This Air Fryer recipe uses an Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven. Not all Air Fryers cook the same way. It’s best to keep watch during your initial tests after purchasing.TIPS:Use firm or extra-firm tofu, not silken or soft.Carefully dry tofu with paper towels on all sides.Shake off excess flour mixture before air frying.While flipping each tofu on the first tray, insert the second tray into the middle cooking chamber and close the door. This will speed up air frying time of the second tray.The first tray placed in the middle cooking chamber will take 25 to 30 minutes. Once the first tray is removed, transfer the second tray to the middle cooking chamber.Once the second tray is transferred to the middle cooking chamber, continue air frying for 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.Do not overcook the tofu. Overcooking the tofu in the Air Fryer will result in an extra-tough exterior.After air frying, cool for 1 to 2 minutes and immediately enjoy.