Let me tell you, if you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, my 15 minute air fryer crispy tofu is an absolute game changer! I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those hectic weeks where time seemed to slip away. I had some tofu in the fridge, and I thought, “Why not give it a try in the air fryer?” The first bite was an explosion of flavor—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside! It has since become a staple in my busy cooking routine. Not only is it ready in a flash, but it’s also packed with protein and can be paired with just about anything. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Ingredients List

• 14 oz firm tofu: Make sure to use firm tofu for the best texture. This will give you that perfect crispy outside and soft inside.
• 2 tbsp soy sauce: I love using low-sodium soy sauce, but regular works too! It adds a savory depth to the tofu.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: This helps to achieve that golden crispiness. Feel free to substitute with sesame oil for extra flavor!
• 1 tsp garlic powder: A must for that delicious garlicky kick! You can also use fresh minced garlic if you prefer.
• 1 tsp cornstarch: This is the secret ingredient for extra crunch! It helps to create that wonderful crispy texture.

How to Prepare Instructions

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. First things first, let’s press that tofu! Wrap the 14 oz of firm tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Place something heavy on top, like a skillet or a few cans, and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This removes excess water and helps achieve that crispy texture we’re after.
2. Once your tofu is nicely pressed, cut it into cubes—about 1-inch pieces work best. Don’t stress about making them perfect; just aim for uniformity so they cook evenly.
3. Now, grab a mixing bowl and combine 2 tbsp of soy sauce, 1 tbsp of olive oil, 1 tsp of garlic powder, and 1 tsp of cornstarch. Give it a good whisk until everything’s blended together. This is where the magic begins!
4. Gently add your tofu cubes to the bowl and toss them carefully to coat every piece. You want each cube to be happily covered in that flavorful mixture. It should look shiny and appetizing!

Cooking the Tofu

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for that golden crisp you’re aiming for!
2. Carefully place the tofu cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Try not to overcrowd them; it’s better to do this in batches if you have a lot. Crispiness is key!
3. Cook them for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. This little move makes a world of difference for that perfect crunch.
4. Once they’re done, you’ll want to serve them hot! The crispy edges are irresistible, so dig in right away!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the numbers! This 15 minute air fryer crispy tofu is not just quick and delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrition. Here’s a rough estimate based on the ingredients used:

• Calories: 150 per serving
• Fat: 8g (with only 1g saturated fat)
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fiber: 2g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands or types of ingredients you choose. But one thing’s for sure: you’re getting a protein-packed, satisfying dish that fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle! Enjoy your crispy tofu without any guilt!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
• Easy Cleanup: With minimal dishes and just one mixing bowl needed, cleanup is a breeze!
• Flavorful Results: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and that crispy texture creates a taste explosion in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main dish, add it to salads, or toss it in stir-fries for an extra protein boost.
• Diet-Friendly: This recipe is vegan and can easily be adapted for gluten-free diets—just swap the soy sauce for tamari!
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the crunchy texture and savory flavor, making it a family favorite!

Tips for Success

Let’s make sure your 15 minute air fryer crispy tofu turns out perfectly every time! Here are some of my top tips:

• Press Your Tofu Well: Don’t skip the pressing step! Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving that crispy texture. If you’re short on time, a tofu press can work wonders.
• Cut Evenly: Try to cut your tofu into uniform cubes. This ensures they cook evenly, so you’re not left with some pieces crispy and others still soft.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: It’s tempting to throw all the tofu in at once, but overcrowding can lead to soggy pieces. Cook in batches if you need to—trust me, it’s worth it!
• Shake It Up: Give the basket a good shake halfway through cooking. This helps to turn the tofu pieces and promotes even browning on all sides.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the soy sauce and garlic powder to fit your taste. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne or some chili flakes for an extra kick!
• Check for Doneness: If you like your tofu extra crispy, don’t hesitate to add a couple more minutes to the cooking time. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!

With these tips in mind, you’re all set to whip up some irresistibly crispy tofu that’ll impress everyone at your table! Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best things about my 15 minute air fryer crispy tofu is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to keep your taste buds excited. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Spice it Up: Want to give your tofu a kick? Try adding some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade. You could even toss in a bit of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy glaze!
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor dramatically! Mix in some chopped fresh basil, cilantro, or parsley to the marinade for a burst of freshness.
• Asian-Inspired Glaze: Swap the soy sauce for teriyaki or hoisin sauce for a sweeter twist. You could also add a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy note!
• Vegetable Medley: Toss in some diced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas with your tofu before air frying. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies, and they’ll cook beautifully alongside the tofu!
• Different Dipping Sauces: Experiment with various dipping sauces! A spicy peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a zesty tahini dressing can take your crispy tofu to a whole new level.
• Sweet & Savory: For a unique flavor combo, try adding a tablespoon of maple syrup or agave to the marinade. This will create a deliciously caramelized coating when air-fried!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect crispy tofu dish. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to hear what combinations you come up with! Happy experimenting!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your crispy tofu ready to go, it’s time to think about how to serve it! Trust me, this dish is super versatile, and there are so many delicious options to pair it with. Here are some of my favorites:

• Steamed Rice: A classic choice! Serve your 15 minute air fryer crispy tofu over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, and drizzle with a bit more soy sauce or sesame oil for added flavor.
• Quinoa: For a nutritious twist, try serving it with quinoa. It adds a lovely nuttiness that complements the tofu beautifully.
• Fresh Salad: Toss it on top of a vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. The crispy tofu adds a satisfying crunch!
• Stir-Fry Vegetables: Keep it simple and toss your tofu with a mix of stir-fried veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. It’s quick, colorful, and delicious!
• Dipping Sauces: Pair your tofu with a variety of dipping sauces! I love a spicy peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a tangy soy-ginger sauce for a burst of flavor.
• Wraps: Create a delightful wrap with lettuce leaves, shredded carrots, and sliced avocado. Fill it with crispy tofu and your favorite sauce for a fresh and fun meal.

These serving suggestions not only enhance the flavor but also make your meal feel complete. So, go ahead and mix and match to find your perfect combo. Enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made your delicious 15 minute air fryer crispy tofu, and now you’ve got some leftovers? No worries! Proper storage and reheating are key to keeping that crispy texture intact. Here’s how to do it:

• Storage: Allow the tofu to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It should stay good for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze it, but keep in mind that the texture may change a bit after thawing.
• Reheating: For the best results, I recommend reheating your tofu in the air fryer again! Just pop it back in at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes until it’s warmed through and crispy again. This helps revive that lovely crunch.
• Microwave Alternative: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but be careful! Place your tofu on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to avoid drying it out. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm, but it won’t have that crispy texture.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your crispy tofu leftovers just as much as the first time around. Happy eating!

15 Minute Air Fryer Crispy Tofu: Deliciously Addictive Dish

---

• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Quick and easy air fryer crispy tofu recipe.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 14 oz firm tofu
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp cornstarch

---

Instructions

1. Press the tofu to remove excess water.
2. Cut tofu into cubes.
3. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, and cornstarch.
4. Add tofu to the bowl and toss to coat.
5. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
6. Place tofu in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
7. Cook for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
8. Serve hot.

Notes

• Adjust seasoning to taste.
• Can be served with dipping sauce.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: 15 minute air fryer crispy tofu