What To Know
- With just a few simple ingredients and a few minutes in your air fryer, you’ll have a satisfying and nutritious dish that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and place it on a plate.
- Weigh it down with a heavy object, such as a pan or a stack of books, for 30-60 minutes.
Craving a delectable plant-based snack or meal? Look no further than this air fryer tofu recipe that delivers crispy, golden-brown tofu without the need for cornstarch. With just a few simple ingredients and a few minutes in your air fryer, you’ll have a satisfying and nutritious dish that will tantalize your taste buds.
Benefits of Air Fryer Tofu
- Crispy Texture: Air frying removes excess moisture, resulting in a perfectly crispy exterior and a tender interior.
- No Cornstarch Needed: This recipe eliminates the need for cornstarch, which can create a thick, gummy coating.
- Healthy and Delicious: Tofu is a low-calorie, high-protein source that can be seasoned to your liking.
- Versatile: Air fryer tofu can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or main course.
Ingredients
- 1 block (14 ounces) firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut Tofu: Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
3. Season Tofu: In a bowl, combine the tofu, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Air Fry: Spread the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. Serve: Remove the tofu from the air fryer and serve immediately.
Variations
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Sweet: Brush the tofu cubes with honey or maple syrup before air frying.
- Herbacious: Sprinkle dried herbs such as oregano, basil, or thyme over the tofu before air frying.
- Marinated: Marinate the tofu in your favorite marinade for several hours or overnight before air frying.
Pairing Suggestions
- Dipping Sauces: Serve the tofu with dipping sauces such as soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, or sweet and sour sauce.
- Salads: Add crispy tofu cubes to your favorite salads for a protein boost.
- Stir-Fries: Use air fryer tofu as a meat substitute in stir-fries.
- Tacos: Top tacos with crispy tofu for a plant-based twist.
Tips
- Press the Tofu: Pressing the tofu removes excess water, which helps it crisp up in the air fryer.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this will prevent the tofu from cooking evenly.
- Adjust Cooking Time: The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your tofu cubes.
- Use a Non-Stick Spray: If your air fryer basket is not non-stick, spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent the tofu from sticking.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Tofu Experience
This air fryer tofu recipe no cornstarch is a game-changer for those who love crispy and flavorful tofu. With its versatility and ease of preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your plant-based repertoire. Experiment with different seasonings and pairings to create endless variations that will satisfy your cravings.
FAQ
Q: Can I use silken tofu in this recipe?
A: No, silken tofu is too soft and will not crisp up in the air fryer.
Q: What is the best way to press tofu?
A: Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and place it on a plate. Weigh it down with a heavy object, such as a pan or a stack of books, for 30-60 minutes.
Q: How long can I store air fryer tofu?
A: Store the tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
