Air-Fryer Tofu: Baking Time And Temperature Guide

Tofu is a healthy source of protein and a great alternative for those who don't eat meat. It can be cooked in several ways, but one of the best methods to achieve a crispy texture is by using an air fryer.

An air fryer is a small, high-powered countertop convection oven that cooks food by circulating hot air around it, creating a fried effect without the need for excessive oil. This technique is not only healthier but also easier and less messy than traditional frying methods.

To cook tofu in an air fryer, you'll need to start with extra-firm tofu to ensure it holds its shape and doesn't fall apart. Pressing the tofu beforehand to remove excess moisture is crucial for achieving the desired crispiness. You can use a tofu press or simply place something heavy on top of the tofu to drain the water.

Once the tofu is prepared, you can coat it in a variety of seasonings and sauces to enhance its flavour. Popular options include soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, nutritional yeast, and cornstarch, which helps create an extra crispy coating.

After marinating the tofu for about 15 minutes, it's ready for the air fryer. Set the temperature to around 400°F and cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally for even cooking.

The result is deliciously crispy tofu that can be enjoyed on its own or added to stir-fries, salads, bowls, and more. It's a quick, easy, and versatile way to cook tofu that will have you coming back for more!

Pressing tofu before cooking

Pressing tofu is a technique used to remove moisture and make it easier to cook with. In some recipes, if the tofu is too wet, it can break up during cooking. Pressing tofu can be done in a few different ways and is a simple process that requires very little effort.

Pressing tofu improves its texture, making it more robust and satisfying. It also helps the tofu hold its shape during cooking and ensures that your seasonings won't be diluted. Pressing is particularly important if you plan on pan-frying or baking tofu, as it will prevent the tofu from falling apart and turning into a lumpy, soggy mess.

When to press tofu

Not all tofu needs pressing. Some brands of firm tofu, particularly smoked or flavoured ones that are vacuum-packed, may not require pressing. A simple way to check is to dab the surface of the tofu with a clean tea towel and see if it picks up any moisture. If the tofu is dry, it can be used without pressing.

Pressing is not suitable for silken tofu, as it is too soft and will be crushed completely. Silken tofu is best used in dishes where it is lightly cooked or blended.

For recipes where firm tofu is sliced or cut into cubes, pressing is recommended to get the best results. Most recipes will instruct you to press the tofu at the start.

How to press tofu

There are several ways to press tofu, and you can use a combination of methods depending on what you have available.

Using paper towels or a dishcloth

You can press tofu by placing it on a layer of paper towels or a dishcloth. Fold the paper towels or cloth to increase absorbency, and place the tofu block on top. Place another layer of paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth on top of the tofu block. Then, place a heavy object, such as a large can of food, a frying pan, or a heavy book, on top to act as a weight. Let the tofu sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the moisture to be absorbed by the paper towels.

Using a cooling rack and sheet pan

Another method is to use a cooling rack placed within a sheet pan. Place the tofu block on the rack, which allows excess liquid to drain and collect in the bottom of the sheet pan. You can also slice the tofu block cross-wise into several pieces to help with draining. Fold a clean kitchen cloth or linen and place it on top of the tofu block to absorb moisture. Place a second sheet pan or a large cutting board on top, and then add heavy-weighted objects such as cans or a heavy bowl. Press the tofu for 30 minutes to an hour, replacing the kitchen linen halfway through if it becomes saturated.

Storing pressed tofu

Once pressed, tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before cooking.

Freezing tofu

Freezing tofu is another option to remove moisture and improve its texture. After pressing your tofu for at least 30 minutes, slice it into strips or cubes and then freeze it. Freezing tofu will make it firmer and more absorbent, and it will hold its shape better during cooking.

Now that you know all about pressing tofu, you can move on to the next step of baking tofu in an air fryer!

Marinating tofu

Pressing the Tofu:

Before marinating, it's essential to remove excess moisture from the tofu. This can be done using a tofu press or by placing the tofu cubes on a flat surface lined with paper towels and setting something heavy on top for about 15 minutes. Pressing the tofu ensures that it doesn't become soggy and achieves the desired crispiness when cooked.

Marinade Ingredients:

The key ingredients for a delicious tofu marinade include soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free), rice vinegar, sesame oil or olive oil, and cornstarch. You can also add maple syrup, sriracha, garlic, dried herbs, or your favourite hot sauce to enhance the flavour. Play around with different ingredients and find your perfect combination!

Marinating Process:

Start by cutting the tofu into cubes and placing them in a large bowl. Drizzle the marinade ingredients over the tofu and gently toss to coat evenly. Let the tofu marinate for about 15 minutes, or even overnight if you're planning ahead. The longer it sits, the more time the tofu has to absorb the flavours.

Final Touches:

Just before air frying, sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu and toss again to ensure an even coating. Cornstarch is essential for achieving that extra crispy texture. You can also add a final touch of your favourite spice blend or seasoning before placing the tofu in the air fryer.

Air Frying:

Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they have a little space around each piece. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook the tofu in batches. Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Your tofu is now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it as-is, toss it into a stir-fry or curry, add it to a rice bowl, or dip it in your favourite sauce. The possibilities are endless!

Cornstarch

When cooked, cornstarch sticks to the outside of the tofu cubes, forming an ultra-crisp and light coating. This is especially important if you want your tofu to have a crunchy texture without the need for deep-frying. By using an air fryer and cornstarch, you can achieve a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods while still enjoying deliciously crispy tofu.

To use cornstarch effectively, start by pressing your tofu to remove excess moisture. Then, in a separate bowl, mix your cornstarch with other dry ingredients such as garlic powder, onion powder, and spices of your choice. You can also add a small amount of liquid, such as soy sauce or oil, to create a batter.

Next, cut your tofu into cubes and gently toss them in the cornstarch mixture until they are evenly coated. Place the tofu cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Set your air fryer to 400°F and cook for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

The exact cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer, so keep an eye on your tofu to avoid overcooking. Once it's golden and crispy, your tofu is ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it as-is or toss it with your favorite sauce.

With cornstarch and an air fryer, you can easily transform tofu into a delicious, crispy treat that's perfect for salads, bowls, or stir-fries.

High temperature

To achieve the best results when baking tofu in an air fryer, it is recommended to set the temperature to 400°F. This high temperature will ensure that the outside of the tofu is crispy, while the inside remains pleasantly firm. Depending on the air fryer, the tofu should be cooked for 10 to 15 minutes. It is important to shake the basket after 5 minutes and then continue cooking.

The high temperature of 400°F is crucial to achieving the desired crispiness and browning of the tofu. This temperature allows the hot air in the air fryer to cook and crisp the tofu efficiently and effectively.

Additionally, it is important to note that the tofu should be extra firm or firm to withstand the high temperature and cooking time without falling apart. Pressing the tofu beforehand to remove excess moisture is also essential to prevent sogginess and ensure crispiness.

The high temperature of 400°F, combined with the appropriate type of tofu and adequate pressing, will result in delicious, crispy tofu that can be enjoyed as a versatile addition to various dishes.

Extra-firm tofu

Cooking Extra-Firm Tofu in an Air Fryer

Ingredients and Preparation

To cook extra-firm tofu in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:

• Extra-firm tofu
• Cornstarch
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Olive oil, avocado oil, or sesame oil
• Spices and seasonings of your choice (e.g. garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, ground black pepper, sea salt)
• Marinade (optional)

Before cooking the tofu, it is important to press and remove excess moisture from it. This can be done by wrapping the tofu in a kitchen towel or paper towels and placing a heavy cast-iron skillet on top for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a tofu press.

Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into cubes or tear it into small pieces. Place the tofu in a medium-sized bowl and add your desired spices, seasonings, and liquid ingredients (such as soy sauce or oil) to create a marinade. Toss the tofu gently to coat all the pieces evenly. You can also add cornstarch to the mixture at this stage to help create a crispy coating. Let the tofu marinate for at least 15 minutes, or longer if desired.

Cooking Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the tofu pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not crowded and have a little space around each piece. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the tofu in batches.

Cook the tofu for 10 to 15 minutes at 400°F, shaking the basket occasionally or halfway through to ensure even cooking. The tofu is ready when it is golden and crispy, but be sure to keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer extra-firm tofu makes a delicious and crispy addition to buddha bowls, stir-fries, salads, and wraps. It can also be served as-is or with your favorite dipping sauce.

Storage and Reheating

The cooked tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the tofu in the air fryer at 375°F for a few minutes until crispy again.

Frequently asked questions