Best Ever Air Fryer Tofu

Air fryer tofu is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried tofu. It allows you to achieve a crispy and flavorful exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender. Here’s a recipe for the best ever air fryer tofu:

Ingredients:

• 1 block of extra-firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder

Instructions:

1. Press the tofu: Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Place the tofu block between two clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Place a heavy object, like a cast-iron skillet or a few cans, on top of the tofu. Let it press for about 15-20 minutes.
2. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce or tamari, maple syrup or agave nectar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt.
3. Cut and marinate the tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes or slices. Place the tofu in a shallow dish or a ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it. Gently toss to coat the tofu evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for more flavor.
4. Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
5. Coat the tofu: In a separate bowl, add the cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Take each marinated tofu piece and coat it with the cornstarch or arrowroot powder, shaking off any excess. This will help create a crispy texture.
6. Air fry the tofu: Place the coated tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook the tofu in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry the tofu at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it turns golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve and enjoy: Once the tofu is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it with your favorite dipping sauce or add it to salads, stir-fries, or rice bowls for a delicious meal.

Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model, so keep an eye on the tofu to ensure it doesn’t burn. Enjoy your crispy and flavorful air fryer tofu!