This Crispy Air Fryer Tofu is unbelievably easy and SO good! It’s proof that tofu absolutely can be full of flavor, crisp, and out-of-this-world delicious. It’s true!
These crispy, flavorful chunks of tofu start out with a secret flavor-infusing step that is fairly counterintuitive: You boil the tofu in salt water, first! This process takes place of pressing the tofu because the salt in the water adds flavor while also removing moisture. It also gives the tofu a firm, bouncy texture that holds together in the air fryer. The result is tofu that’s flavorful on the inside and crunchy on the outside. It’s my new favorite way to make it!
Table of Contents
The Story Behind the Recipe
I first started air-frying tofu a few months ago when I was making a concerted effort to increase my protein intake (sometimes not so easy for a vegetarian!)
It’s just so easy to cut tofu into chunks, toss them with a handful of ingredients, and air fry them until they’re crisp and perfect. From there, I enjoy them on salads, as a quick snack, tossed in sauce … myriad ways.
I used to press the tofu first, but then I read about the technique of boiling tofu in salt water to both pull out the moisture and to add in flavor. I was skeptical, I admit … but this extra step is SO worth it!
Now, you don’t absolutely HAVE to boil the tofu in salt water, but I highly recommend it. I’ve tested it every which way and truly, boiling it in salt water really does add flavor. It’s now my secret weapon for the best tasting crispy tofu!
Why You’ll Love Crispy Air Fryer Tofu
- Super crispy outside, flavorful inside – without a bunch of oil
- Fast and easy – just 30 minutes from beginning to end, with very little hands-on time.
- So many uses – I love how versatile this crispy air fryer tofu is. Salads, bowls, snacks … endless possibilities.
- GF/vegan – Not only is this air fryer tofu a great vegetarian protein option, it’s also gluten-free and vegan!
Ingredients
- Salt water – Instead of pressing the tofu, you’ll boil it in salt water. It seems counterintuitive, but this method draws out the moisture while infusing the tofu with flavor. Can you press it instead, if you prefer? Absolutely! But in side-by-side taste tests, I personally much preferred the taste of the salt water boiled tofu.
- Tofu – You’ll want to start with extra firm tofu – not firm or silken.
- Cornstarch – This helps to create the crispy outer layer for your air fryer tofu.
- Seasonings – I like a combo of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Olive oil – Just a bit helps create the crispy outer layer.
Adaptations/Variations
This Air Fryer Tofu recipe is endlessly adaptable. Just add the seasonings that suit your preference that day! Here are a couple of my favorite variations:
- Curried Air Fryer Tofu – Toss 2 teaspoons of curry powder with the tofu.
- Herbed Air Fryer Tofu – Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and double the garlic powder.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Tofu
- Cut the tofu into squares – approx 3/4-inch cubes. You can also tear the tofu into chunks for more crispy, craggy edges
- Next, you’ll boil the tofu in salt water instead of pressing it like you might usually do. To do this, simply set a pot of water over high heat and add the salt. Bring to a boil, then add the tofu. Boil the tofu in the salt water for about 10 minutes, then strain with a colander and pat with paper towels until dry.
- Next, place the tofu in a large bowl and sprinkle with the cornstarch and seasonings. Toss gently until the tofu is well-coated in the seasonings and cornstarch.
- Drizzle on the olive oil and toss it again.
- Spread the tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for about 20 minutes, tossing it at about the 15 minute mark to help ensure every side gets crispy and golden-delicious.
Tip for Success
- Don’t skip the salt water bath! I know it adds 10 minutes to your time, but I promise it adds so much flavor to your tofu and it’ll be wonderfully crisp. You can press it instead if you prefer, and the texture will still be great that way, but it won’t have quite as much flavor.
I hope you love this Crispy Air Fryer Tofu as much as I do! It’s such a versatile vegetarian protein option, full of all the good stuff and absolutely delicious too.
Crispy Air Fryer Tofu
This air fryer tofu is full of flavor on the inside and crispy-crunchy on the outside. Fast, easy, and a small handful of ingredients. It’s my new favorite way to make it!
For the salted water
- 6 cups water
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
For the air-fryer tofu
- 1 block extra-firm tofu (cut into approx. 3/4-inch cubes*)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Boil the tofu in salt water
Toss tofu with cornstarch, seasonings, and oil
Place the tofu in a large bowl. Sprinkle with cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until the tofu is well-coated. Drizzle the olive oil on top and toss again.
Cook tofu in air fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees.
Spread the tofu in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air fry for 20 minutes, checking it and giving it a quick toss at the 15-minute mark.
Serve as desired.
You can also tear the tofu into chunks for more crispy, craggy edges
More Tofu Recipes
FAQs About Crispy Air Fryer Tofu
Can I use soft tofu?
Soft tofu is too delicate and won’t get crispy. Stick to firm or extra-firm varieties.
Do I need to use oil?
A small amount of oil helps with browning but you can reduce or skip it for a lower-fat option.
Can I freeze cooked tofu?
Yes! Let the tofu cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
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