Air Fryer Tofu: A Quick, Easy, Healthy Treat

Tofu is a healthy and versatile source of protein that can be cooked in an air fryer to create a crispy, chewy, and delicious meal. Air fryers are small, powerful countertop convection ovens that cook food by circulating hot air around it, creating a fried texture and taste without the need for large amounts of oil. Cooking tofu in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare this plant-based protein, and it can be seasoned and served in a variety of ways to suit different tastes and preferences.

Pressing tofu before cooking

There are several ways to press tofu:

• Using a tofu press: This is a dedicated tool designed for pressing tofu. It is easy to use and can be purchased online or at some kitchen supply stores.
• Using a kitchen towel or paper towels: Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and gently weigh it down with a flat object, such as a cutting board, cast-iron skillet, or stack of books.
• Freezing and thawing: Freeze the tofu, then let it thaw. This process creates pockets in the tofu that allow for better absorption of marinades. You can also manually squeeze out the excess moisture with your hands after thawing.

The length of time needed to press tofu can vary depending on the method used. Some recipes recommend pressing for at least 10 minutes, while others suggest 30 minutes or even an hour. It is important to note that pressing tofu can add extra time to the overall cooking process.

Some people choose to skip the pressing step altogether, as unpressed tofu can still achieve a crispy and golden texture when cooked. Additionally, pressing tofu can be a time-consuming step, and some people may not feel it is necessary. Ultimately, the decision to press tofu or not depends on personal preference and the desired texture and taste.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for tofu in an air fryer vary depending on the desired texture, the type of tofu, and the model of the air fryer. For crispy tofu, it is recommended to press the tofu before cooking to remove excess moisture, which can be done with a tofu press, a cast-iron skillet, or a stack of books.

When cooking, the air fryer should be preheated to 400°F according to the manufacturer's instructions, which usually takes around 3 minutes. The tofu should be cut into cubes and seasoned with spices, liquid aminos, or sauces before cooking. It is also recommended to coat the tofu with cornstarch and cooking spray or oil to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.

The cooking time can range from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the desired level of crispiness. It is important to shake or flip the tofu halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking on all sides. The tofu is ready when it is crisp, golden brown, and browned around the edges.

It is worth noting that the cooking time may vary depending on the model of the air fryer, so it is important to keep an eye on the tofu during the cooking process and adjust the time as needed. Some recipes suggest cooking tofu for as little as 4 minutes, flipping, spraying with oil, and then cooking for an additional 3-6 minutes. Others recommend cooking for up to 20 minutes, depending on the model of the air fryer.

Additionally, the type of tofu can impact the cooking time. For example, frozen tofu may require a longer thawing time before cooking, and silken tofu should be avoided as it will yield the wrong texture and break apart easily.

Seasoning and spices

Tofu is a blank canvas when it comes to seasoning and spices, absorbing any flavours you add to it. The options are endless, but here are some ideas to get you started:

Italian Seasoning

For a taste of the Mediterranean, try dried parsley, oregano, and basil. This combination will add a depth of flavour to your tofu and transport you to the sunny climes of Italy.

Mexican Spice Mix

Add a kick to your tofu with a Mexican-inspired spice mix. Cumin is a key ingredient, but you can also include chilli powder, paprika, and coriander for an authentic flavour.

Asian-Style Marinade

For an Asian twist, try a marinade of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. This combination will infuse your tofu with a savoury, salty flavour and a nutty aroma. You can also add maple syrup, sriracha or your favourite hot sauce for an extra punch of heat and sweetness.

Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning

For a more unusual option, try using a rotisserie chicken seasoning blend. This will give your tofu a unique, savoury flavour that mimics the taste of roasted chicken.

Spicy Blend

If you like your food with a kick, try a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Smoked paprika will add a smoky flavour, while regular paprika will give a more subtle, earthy taste.

Nutritional Yeast

While not a traditional seasoning, nutritional yeast adds a uniquely salty, nutty, umami flavour to your tofu. It also helps to create a golden, crispy exterior when cooked in the air fryer.

Remember, these are just a few suggestions, and you can get creative with your seasoning and spice combinations. Experiment with different flavours and find the ones you like best!

Tofu types and textures

Tofu is a plant-based protein that has grown in popularity, not just among vegetarians and vegans but also among health-conscious eaters. Tofu is made by coagulating soy milk and then pressing the curds into soft, white blocks. The production process is similar to that of cheese. It is a good source of plant-based protein, calcium, and iron.

Soft Tofu

Soft tofu is not pressed but is made using a thicker coagulant. It has a delicate body and a mild, milky flavor, making it a great alternative for dairy and eggs in desserts and baked goods. It can also be blended into smoothies, pureed, or used as a replacement for egg or dairy products in savory dishes. Soft tofu is not recommended for shallow frying as it has a high water content, which can cause sputtering and spit-back.

Medium-Firm Tofu

Medium-firm tofu has a rougher texture than soft tofu, with visible curds. It has a moderate moisture content and is suitable for dishes that don't require much manipulation, such as braising or boiling. It may not be the best choice for stir-frying or pan-frying as it can break up easily.

Firm Tofu

Firm tofu has tight and visible curds and a solid texture with little give. It takes on a slight rubbery texture during cooking, making it easier to handle. Firm tofu holds up well to frying and stuffing. It can also be battered, crusted, baked, boiled, pan-fried, stir-fried, deep-fried, or glazed.

Silken Tofu

Silken tofu is slightly firmer than soft tofu but still tender. It is suitable for no-cook recipes or light simmering. It can be used in soups like miso and light stir-fries.

Extra-Firm Tofu

Extra-firm tofu is excellent for frying and grilling. It has a very dense texture and holds its shape exceptionally well. It is suitable for recipes where a meaty texture is desired.

Dips and sauces

Tofu is a versatile protein source that can be cooked in an air fryer to achieve a crispy texture. It can be paired with various dips and sauces to enhance its flavour.

One option for a dip or sauce is a basic seasoning blend. This can include a mixture of soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. You can also add other spices like paprika to this blend. For a thicker sauce, you can add cornstarch. This sauce can be tossed with the air-fried tofu to create a delicious meal.

Another option is to create a spicy marinade by combining sriracha, sesame oil, and soy sauce. This sauce will give your tofu a kick of heat and can be used as a dipping sauce or tossed with the tofu before air frying.

You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique dips and sauces. For a Mediterranean touch, you can use dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano. If you're looking for something more savoury, onion and garlic are great additions, but you can also try taco spice, jerk seasoning, curry powder, or mala spice.

Additionally, you can explore different types of sauces like peanut sauce, honey sauce, or gochujang sauce. These sauces can be drizzled over the tofu or used as a dip. You can also toss the tofu in buffalo or BBQ sauce and serve it with a side of ranch dressing.

The options for dips and sauces are endless, and you can customise them according to your taste preferences. The versatility of tofu allows it to absorb the flavours of the sauces and dips, making it a delicious and healthy option for meals or snacks.

Frequently asked questions