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A closeup of crispy air fryer tofu with cilantro.

Best Ever Air Fryer Tofu

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 4 reviews
  • Author: Laurel Perry
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2-4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This Air Fryer Tofu develops an incredible crispy crust with the help of a flavor-packed spice mix. Perfect for salads, bowls, or served as vegan nuggets.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (15.5) oz container sprouted tofu, drained, not pressed
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Pat the tofu dry with paper towels and do not press. Pressing often leads to dry tofu, we want crispy, juicy, flavorful tofu. Cut into 1-inch cubes.

Add the tofu to a bowl and all the ingredients except the oil. Toss until the tofu is well coated and very little dry seasoning is left in the bottom of the bowl. Add the oil to the bowl and toss again until everything is evenly coated.

Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees. Add the tofu in an even layer, cooking in two batches, if needed. Cook for 15 minutes, shaking once halfway through.

Notes

Tofu: extra firm sprouted tofu works best. Trader Joe's and Wildwood are great brands. Or regular extra firm tofu, I just find it sticks a bit more.

Oil free: For an oil free version, omit the oil and continue with the recipe as written. 

When tossing the tofu, use your hands. A spoon or tongs will break the delicate tofu.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
  • Calories: 219
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 316mg
  • Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg