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    Home » Recipes » Air Fryer

    Crispy Air Fryer Tofu [Oil Free]

    Published: Mar 5, 2021 by Rosa · This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

    23.7K shares
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    Crispy air fryer tofu that’s jam packed with flavour, low in calories and fat, oil free, high in protein and absolutely delicious! Crispy on the outside, soft and tender in the middle.

    air fryer tofu on white serving dish with dipping sauce.

    Enjoy as a healthy snack with a dip, or make it a main dish with some rice and veggies.

    Just like my air fried hash browns, home fries, garlic bread and chickpeas, you can expect crispy, flavourful and delicious results!

    Fork dunking cube of tofu into spicy mayo dip.

    Why air fry tofu?

    • It’s FASTER than baking and cooks up in just 13 minutes!!
    • Super crispy, and all without any oil required.
    • Far healthier than frying, but with similar flavour results.
    • And the best reason, it’s delicious!
    Crispy air fried tofu cubes in white serving dish with dipping sauce on the side.

    How to make it

    (This is a summary with step by step photos, full recipe measurements and instructions are in the recipe card below.)

    Gather your ingredients. All you’ll need is a block of extra firm tofu and some spices and seasoning for the marinade.

    Block of tofu, bowl of seasoning and bowl of soy sauce and vinegar on white deck.

    Begin by preparing and pressing your tofu. Slice and cut into half inch cubes. (photos 1-2)

    Then line a cutting board with paper towels or a clean dish towel and arrange the cubed pieces in a single layer on top. (photo 3)

    Add more paper towels above the tofu cubes and then place a baking sheet or another cutting board on top. And finally, place something heavy like a cast iron skillet or books on top.

    Press like this for 15 minutes. Then remove the weight/s and peel off the paper towels. You’ll notice that the paper towels have absorbed a lot of moisture. (photo 4)

    Tofu on cutting board being sliced and cut into cubes and then pressed.

    Transfer the cubed tofu pieces to a shallow dish or container and pour the soy sauce and rice vinegar mixture on top. Toss to evenly coat. (photos 5-6)

    Marinade being poured on top of cubed tofu pieces.

    Mix up your seasoning and the corn starch and sprinkle over the tofu. (photos 7-8)

    Then mix well to evenly coat. If you’re using a container, you can place the lid on and gently rotate and shake it to evenly spread the seasoning. (photos 9-10)

    Tofu cubes being seasoning and mixed well to coat.

    Now place the seasoned cubes in an even layer in your fryer basket and air fry at 400 degrees F for 10-15 minutes. (photos 11-12)

    NOTES: Work in batches if needed so you don’t overcrowd the tofu. Start checking around the 10 minute mark, since different fryers will operate at different speeds.

    Tofu cubes inside air fryer basket before and after cooking.

    Serve your air fryer tofu with a dip like spicy mayo or cashew cream. Or add it to a stir fry with rice and veggies.

    Fork with cubed tofu on it that has been dunked into a pink dip.

    What kind of air fryer do I need?

    We use a Ninja Foodi 8 quart that we absolutely love. However, for this recipe, any basket style of fryer will work well.

    Just keep in mind that individual models will cook at different temperatures and speeds, so be sure to check on your tofu often, starting around the 10 minute mark.

    Commonly Asked Questions

    What does tofu taste like?

    I find tofu pretty flavourless on its own, which is why a good marinade is key to preparing it.

    What kind of tofu do I use?

    Make sure to grab EXTRA FIRM tofu, not silken extra firm. Extra firm will hold best and result in the best crispy air fryer tofu.

    Do you need to press the tofu?

    Yes. Don’t skip pressing for this recipe as it helps remove excess water and moisture from the tofu, for crispier results. It also allows more flavour to be absorbed from the marinade.

    Is tofu healthy?

    Yes! It’s a great source of protein, essential amino acids, calcium, iron and a variety of other vitamins and minerals. Plus, it’s low in calories and fat, making it a great protein choice for weight loss or management.

    Is tofu gluten free?

    Yes, it is naturally gluten free in its plain form. However, if you purchase a flavoured or breaded variety, be sure to read the ingredients.

    Should I buy non GMO tofu?

    Luckily, most tofu in stores is already non GMO, which I do recommend. Since we hear that much of the soy produced is genetically modified, it’s a good idea to use non GMO, if you’re concerned.

    Expert Tips

    Do not overcrowd the tofu, or it won’t get as crispy. If you have a smaller fryer, work in two batches for best texture and results.

    If you’re working in batches, remember that your second batch will cook faster since your fryer is already hot, so start checking on the tofu sooner.

    Try your best to cut your cubes into similarly sized pieces for even cooking and best results.

    Plan to consume your air fryer tofu the same day its made as it will begin to lose its crispiness the longer it sits.

    More air fried dishes you’ll love

    • Air Fried Broccoli
    • Healthy Air Fried Mushrooms
    • Air Fried Butternut Squash [Two Ways!]
    • Healthy Air Fried Eggplant
    • Air Fried Carrots [Two Ways!]
    • Low Cal Air Fried Spaghetti Squash

    If you tried this recipe, please let me know about it in the comments below. I always love hearing from you! Don’t forget to Subscribe to This Healthy Kitchen to be among the first to get my new recipes! You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter to see more delicious food and get all the latest updates.

    Buon appetito

    Rosa

    air fryer tofu on white serving dish with dipping sauce.

    Air Fryer Tofu

    Crispy air fryer tofu that's jam packed with flavour, low in calories and fat, oil free but absolutely delicious! Crispy on the outside, soft and tender in the middle.
    5 from 52 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate Recipe Add to Collection Go to Collections
    Prep Time: 20 minutes
    Cook Time: 10 minutes
    Total Time: 30 minutes
    Course: Main Course, Side Dish, Snack
    Cuisine: American, Asian, Canadian
    Servings: 4 Servings
    Calories: 67kcal
    Author: Rosa

    Equipment

    Ninja Foodi appliance on white background.
    Ninja Foodi Air Fryer

    Ingredients

    • 350 grams (12 ounce) block extra firm tofu GMO free preferred
    • 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce if not avoiding gluten
    • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or sweet
    • ¼ teaspoon sea salt optional
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Instructions

    Press the Tofu

    • Cut your tofu into half inch cubes. Then arrange some paper towels or a clean dish towel on a cutting board and place the tofu cubes in a single layer on top. Now add more paper towels on top of the cubes and place another cutting board, flat plate or baking sheet on top. Finally place something very heavy on top like a cast iron skillet or a heavy book. Press like this for 15 minutes while you prepare the remaining ingredients.

    Prepare the Tofu

    • Combine all the dry seasoning, including the corn starch in a small bowl, and set aside.
    • Place the pressed tofu cubes in a shallow dish or container and pour the tamari and rice vinegar on top, toss to evenly coat. Then sprinkle all the seasoning on top and mix well. If you use a container, you can put the lid on and gently rotate the container around to evenly spread the seasoning.
    • Arrange your cubes in your fryer basket in a single layer working in two batches, if you have a small fryer. Do not over crowd your tofu to ensure maximum crispiness. Air fry at 400 degrees F for 10-15 minutes, mixing or shaking your basket around the halfway point. Mine were perfect at 13 minutes, but start checking on the tofu around the 10 minute mark.
    • Serve with a dip like spicy mayo or cashew cream. Or use to top some rice and veggies.

    Notes

    Do not overcrowd the tofu, or it won’t get as crispy. If you have a smaller fryer, work in two batches for best texture and results.
    If you’re working in batches, remember that your second batch will cook faster since your fryer is already hot, so start checking on the tofu sooner.
    Try your best to cut your cubes into similarly sized pieces for even cooking and best results.
    Plan to consume your air fryer tofu the same day its made as it will begin to lose its crispiness the longer it sits.
    If time permits, you may leave your tofu in the marinade for 30 minutes, up to 12 hours (refrigerated) before air frying, to absorb even more flavour.  

    Nutrition

    Calories: 67kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 2g | Sodium: 559mg | Potassium: 179mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 246IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 1mg
    DID YOU TRY THIS RECIPE?Mention @this.healthy.kitchen on IG and tag #thishealthykitchen!
    *Nutritional information is an estimate, calculated using online tools and does not include optional ingredients unless otherwise indicated.
    23.7K shares

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

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    1. Jennifer

      November 08, 2022 at 3:29 pm

      5 stars
      wow!!! mine came out perfect

      Reply
      • Rosa

        November 09, 2022 at 9:09 am

        Yay! So glad. 🙂

        Reply
    2. Anne

      October 23, 2022 at 6:46 pm

      5 stars
      I love this recipe it is on my regular rotation now 🙂 I add it to stir fry after I cook the veggies.

      Reply
      • Rosa

        October 25, 2022 at 8:29 am

        Thanks for sharing Anne! So glad you’ve been enjoying it.

        Reply
    3. Joscelyn

      July 28, 2022 at 5:02 pm

      5 stars
      Suuuuper yum yum yum and perfect when I was craving something fried :–) paired with honey mustard. Soo good and left me satisfied, not sick!

      Reply
      • Rosa

        July 29, 2022 at 9:59 am

        So glad you enjoyed Joscelyn!

        Reply
    4. Cathy

      May 08, 2022 at 9:17 pm

      5 stars
      I made this for my granddaughter and I., everyone else had to have chicken😉 It was very good. Great flavor and easy to do especially with vegan/non vegan meal prep

      Reply
      • Rosa

        May 09, 2022 at 8:20 am

        Thrilled you enjoyed Cathy! Thanks for taking the time to leave a review. 🙂

        Reply
    5. Summer

      March 24, 2022 at 3:44 pm

      5 stars
      I tried it! It came out amazing 😻

      Reply
      • Rosa

        March 25, 2022 at 9:25 am

        Thrilled you enjoyed!

        Reply
    6. Joleen

      February 10, 2022 at 12:45 pm

      5 stars
      I made this recipe and really enjoyed it! I took the advice of a comment from the website and used apple cider vinegar in place of rice wine. I also added a little honey to make it less bitter.

      Reply
    7. Linda

      January 07, 2022 at 10:21 am

      5 stars
      Love it! I added a little cayenne & salt free seasoning to the spice mix & subbed white wine vinegar & coconut aminos for the rice vinegar & tamari. Used on top of my roasted veggies & with the cashew cream recipe, to which I added some sriracha, salt free mustard, garlic & onion powder. A tasty new treat…ty!

      Reply
      • Rosa

        January 07, 2022 at 1:55 pm

        Absolutely thrilled you enjoyed Linda! Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review. 🙂

        Reply
    8. Dee

      January 03, 2022 at 4:53 pm

      5 stars
      Became a vegetarian about 3 months ago and decided to give tofu a try. This is by far the best recipe I’ve tried, and like you said packed full of flavour. Here are some tips I used
      -apple cider vinegar instead of rice vinegar (didn’t have any)
      -let it marinate for a few minutes to maximize flavour
      -extra firm tofu works best

      Thank you for this wonderful recipe 😊

      Reply
      • Rosa

        January 04, 2022 at 8:34 am

        So glad you enjoyed Dee!

        Reply
    9. Magdalena

      December 20, 2021 at 6:15 am

      5 stars
      I tried it today and Loved it! I also made the mayo and it was a great combination

      Reply
      • Rosa

        December 21, 2021 at 8:52 am

        So glad you enjoyed Magdalena! Thanks for sharing.

        Reply
    10. CAROL

      October 30, 2021 at 1:34 pm

      I love your healthy recipes!! Thank you for sharing them! I have a Breville Smart Oven Air. I’m hoping this recipe will work in it!

      Reply
      • Rosa

        October 31, 2021 at 8:09 am

        Thanks Carol, so glad you’ve been enjoying. Please let us know how they turn out. 🙂

        Reply
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    Hi, I'm Rosa! Welcome to This Healthy Kitchen where you'll find tasty and nutritious, plant-based recipes. I'm an avid home cook who believes food is medicine. Each recipe is made using wholesome ingredients, and under 400 calories per serving with several gluten-free and oil-free options! Occasional cheat days included. 😉

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