Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to cook tofu that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside? Look no further than the air fryer! With its rapid air circulation technology, the air fryer can produce restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. And when it comes to cooking tofu, the air fryer is particularly well-suited for the task. In this article, we’ll explore 18 crispy tofu air fryer recipes that are perfect for beginners.
From savory and spicy options like Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Tofu and Crispy Sriracha Tofu Bites to sweet and tangy choices like Honey Sesame Air Fryer Tofu and Lemon Pepper Tofu Strips, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a long-time tofu fan or just looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried foods, these recipes are sure to please.
Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Tofu
Elevate your tofu game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese, savory garlic, and crispy air-fried texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the bowl and toss until coated with the garlic-Parmesan mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the tofu and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Load the air fryer basket with the tofu in a single layer, leaving some space between each cube.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until crispy on the outside and tender inside, shaking halfway through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tips: For an extra crispy exterior, increase cooking time by 1-2 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Crispy Sriracha Tofu Bites
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and spicy bites of tofu goodness, perfectly seasoned with sriracha and panko breadcrumbs. These addictive morsels are ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and sriracha sauce.
3. Dip each tofu cube into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly.
4. Place coated tofu cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the tofu bites and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Air Fryer Tofu
Elevate your air frying game with this sweet and savory Teriyaki Glazed Air Fryer Tofu recipe. A simple and flavorful twist on traditional teriyaki, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/4 cup Teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together Teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the glaze.
4. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil.
5. Cook the tofu in batches if necessary, for 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from the air fryer and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Buffalo Tofu Wings
Get ready to score a touchdown with this game-changing vegan twist on classic buffalo wings!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized strips
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce (or your preferred hot sauce)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: vegan blue cheese crumbles, chopped celery sticks, and carrot sticks for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together Frank’s RedHot sauce, soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
3. Add the tofu strips to the buffalo sauce mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Place the coated tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each strip.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently to ensure even coverage.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve hot with optional blue cheese crumbles, celery sticks, and carrot sticks.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Sesame Air Fryer Tofu
Elevate your air fryer game with this easy and flavorful recipe for Honey Sesame Air Fryer Tofu. This sweet and savory dish is perfect as a main course or as a tasty addition to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Place the marinated tofu in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the tofu.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Pepper Tofu Strips
Brighten up your meals with this flavorful and crispy tofu recipe, perfect as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into strips
– 1/2 cup lemon pepper seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together lemon pepper seasoning and salt.
3. Dip each tofu strip into the lemon pepper mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place the coated tofu strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the tofu strips.
6. Squeeze lemon juice over the tofu strips.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Korean BBQ Tofu
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) with the sweetness of soy sauce and brown sugar to create a spicy and savory tofu dish. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together gochugaru, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic.
2. Add the tofu to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Remove the tofu from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with sesame oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (marinating time) + 15-20 minutes (baking time)
Maple Dijon Air Fryer Tofu
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of maple syrup and Dijon mustard with this easy-to-make air fryer tofu recipe. Perfect for a quick and healthy snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the tofu pieces in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Spray with cooking spray if desired.
5. Pour the maple-Dijon mixture evenly over the tofu.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Panko-Crusted Tofu Nuggets
Get ready to crunch into the perfect plant-based snack with these Panko-crusted tofu nuggets. Tender and juicy on the inside, crispy and golden on the outside – you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tofu cube into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated tofu nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Chili Lime Tofu
Elevate your vegan game with this sweet and tangy tofu dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful addition to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/4 cup of sweet chili sauce
– 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce (or tamari)
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), and garlic.
3. Place the tofu cubes in a shallow baking dish and pour the marinade over them.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown and tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herb and Garlic Air Fryer Tofu
Elevate your tofu game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic and herbs with the crispy texture of air-fried goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a snack to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place the marinated tofu in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Tofu Cubes
Add a kick of flavor to your meal with this easy recipe for Cajun-Spiced Tofu Cubes. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or added protein to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning blend
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together olive oil, Cajun seasoning blend, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add the tofu cubes to the mixture and toss until coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Air Fryer Tofu
Thai Peanut Air Fryer Tofu: A flavorful and protein-rich snack or meal that combines the creamy richness of peanut sauce with the crispy texture of air-fried tofu.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized cubes
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Cooking spray or oil for air fryer
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add tofu cubes and toss until well coated.
3. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil. Place tofu in a single layer and cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Remove from air fryer and sprinkle with salt to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoky Paprika Tofu Bites
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, flavorful bites of smoky goodness. Perfect as a quick appetizer or post-workout fuel.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place the marinated tofu on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Air Fryer Tofu Tacos
Transform traditional tacos into a plant-based delight with this simple recipe that combines the crunch of air-fried tofu with the flavors of Mexico.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Taco fixings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Cook the tofu in the air fryer for 5-6 minutes or until crispy on the outside.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with cooked tofu, taco fixings, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes (includes prep time)
Curry-Spiced Tofu Skewers
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful and easy-to-make skewers, perfect for a quick bite or as a nutritious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of curry powder
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, curry powder, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using).
3. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread the marinated tofu onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush with additional olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the tofu is golden brown and slightly charred.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Tofu Stir-Fry
Air Fryer Tofu Stir-Fry Recipe
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Quickly cook tender and flavorful tofu with a variety of colorful vegetables in this easy Air Fryer recipe.
Ingredients:
——————
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
——————
1. Preheat Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, garlic, and soy sauce. Add tofu cubes; toss to coat.
3. Load the Air Fryer basket with half of the tofu mixture.
4. Cook for 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Shake halfway through.
5. Repeat step 3-4 with remaining tofu mixture.
6. Add sliced onions, bell peppers, and broccoli to the Air Fryer basket. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and oyster sauce (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Tofu Steaks
Elevate your tofu game with this easy and flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The balsamic glaze adds a rich, sweet, and tangy flavor to the crispy tofu steaks.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 4-6 steaks
– 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and salt.
3. Add the tofu steaks to the marinade and coat evenly. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove the tofu from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the tofu steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouthwatering air fryer recipes for beginners that feature crispy tofu as the star ingredient. From classic flavors like garlic parmesan and buffalo wings to international inspirations like Korean BBQ and Thai peanut, these recipes offer something for everyone. With simple instructions and minimal ingredients required, you can easily create a variety of dishes in just a few minutes. Perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking to add some excitement to their meal routine.
