Crispy Air Fryer Tofu [Oil Free]

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.

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!

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!

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.

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)

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)

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)

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.

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.

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

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