Air Fryer Tofu: Achieving The Perfect Crisp

Air fryers are a great way to make crispy tofu without the mess and hassle of deep-frying or pan-frying. This article will teach you how to make tofu crispy in an air fryer, with tips on pressing and seasoning the tofu for the best results. You'll be enjoying delicious, crispy tofu in no time!

How to get the right tofu texture

To achieve the perfect tofu texture, there are a few key steps to follow. Firstly, it is important to use the right type of tofu. For air fryer tofu, it is best to choose extra-firm or firm tofu. Softer types of tofu will fall apart and won't become crispy. If you can find vacuum-sealed tofu, that's even better as it tends to be drier.

Before cooking, it is essential to remove the excess moisture from the tofu. This can be done by pressing the tofu using a tofu press or a heavy object like a cast-iron skillet. You can also try a quick soak in boiling salted water, which will draw out the moisture and give the tofu a chewier texture.

Once the tofu is dry, cut it into cubes or tear it into bite-sized pieces. Tearing the tofu will create craggy edges that hold onto sauces better.

When it comes to cooking, arrange the tofu pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they have a little space around each one. Air fry at around 400°F for 10-15 minutes, tossing the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the tofu to avoid over-browning and adjust the timing as needed, as different air fryer models may vary.

By following these steps, you'll end up with tofu that has a crispy, golden exterior and a chewy texture.

The importance of removing excess moisture

Removing excess moisture from tofu before air frying is a crucial step in achieving the desired crispy texture. While air frying already reduces the need for oil compared to traditional frying methods, removing moisture further ensures that the tofu doesn't stick to the air fryer basket and promotes even browning and crisping.

There are several effective methods to remove moisture from tofu. One popular method is to use a tofu press, which extracts the excess water and also condenses the tofu for a firmer texture. This can be a worthwhile investment if you frequently cook tofu. Alternatively, you can simply wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and gently weigh it down with a flat object, such as a cutting board or a heavy skillet, for about 10 to 30 minutes.

Another innovative technique is to soak the tofu in boiling salted water for a few minutes, which draws out the excess moisture. After soaking, it is important to thoroughly blot the tofu dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking during air frying.

Removing excess moisture is a critical step in achieving the perfect crispy tofu in an air fryer. By following these simple techniques, you can ensure that your tofu has a nice crispy coating and cooks evenly, resulting in a delicious and satisfying dish.

The best tofu seasonings

Salt and Pepper

A classic combination that works with almost any dish, salt and pepper are crucial seasonings as they bring out the more subtle, natural flavours found in food. Try sprinkling salt and pepper on some crispy tofu nuggets for a more enjoyable bite.

Paprika

Used in many southern and Creole dishes, paprika is an essential spice for any plant-based kitchen. It has intense, smoky flavours that make it great for tofu marinades or as a tofu rub. For a simple paprika-flavoured tofu meal, try this baked tofu recipe.

Turmeric

Turmeric is an Indian spice with powerful nutritional and health benefits, including amazing anti-inflammatory qualities. It has strong, earthy flavours and can really enhance the taste of tofu. For a quick fix, make egg salad sandwiches using tofu instead of eggs, quality bread, and just a dash of turmeric.

Dill

Dill has a tangy zest and is perfect for adding to stews, sauces and pickling. It pairs well with many different plant-based foods and is a great herb to enhance any meal with tofu. Dill adds an excellent flavour to picnic salads. Try adding an extra pinch of dill to this vegan 'egg mayonnaise' sandwich.

Cinnamon

Tofu doesn't always have to be savoury—it can be used in desserts, too! Cinnamon is a powerful spice that can be added to nearly any sweet treat. There are many health benefits to cinnamon, such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and blood sugar regulation. You don't need a lot of this spice to really perk up your recipes—just a small pinch will do!

The role of cornstarch

Cornstarch is a key ingredient in achieving the desired crispiness of air fryer tofu. Its role is twofold: it helps to absorb excess moisture from the tofu, and it forms a crispy coating around the exterior.

Cornstarch is often combined with other dry ingredients such as spices and breadcrumbs, which adhere to the tofu due to the cornstarch's moisture-absorbing properties. This mixture is then tossed with the tofu to ensure an even coating. The cornstarch draws out any remaining liquid from the tofu, which is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.

When the coated tofu is placed in the air fryer, the cornstarch creates a delicious, crispy exterior. This outer layer not only adds texture but also enhances the overall flavour of the dish. The cornstarch helps to create a golden, fried-like coating that elevates the tofu's taste and visual appeal.

Additionally, cornstarch is versatile and can be substituted with other starches such as arrowroot or potato starch if needed. It is an essential component in the air fryer tofu recipe, contributing to both the crunch and the flavour of the final product.

Air fryer temperature and timing

The temperature and timing for air fryer tofu vary depending on the specific air fryer model and the desired level of crispiness. However, here is a comprehensive guide to help you achieve the perfect crispy tofu:

Firstly, it is important to note that the ideal temperature for cooking tofu in an air fryer is between 375°F and 400°F. Most recipes recommend setting the air fryer to 400°F for the best results.

Regarding timing, it is crucial to keep an eye on the tofu during the cooking process as different air fryers may yield different results. The cooking time can range from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the desired level of crispiness and the specific air fryer model. For example, one recipe suggests cooking tofu at 400°F for 10 minutes, shaking the basket after 5 minutes, and then continuing to cook.

It is also recommended to shake the air fryer basket periodically, approximately every 5 minutes, to ensure even cooking and browning. This will help achieve an even crispiness and prevent the tofu from sticking to the basket.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the tofu may cook faster if it has been pressed for a longer period of time. The more excess moisture that is removed, the longer the cook time will be. Therefore, it is advised to adjust the cooking time accordingly, adding 1-2 minutes at a time, to achieve the desired level of crispiness.

In summary, for crispy tofu, set your air fryer between 375°F and 400°F, typically for around 10-20 minutes, depending on your air fryer model and the texture you desire. Be sure to shake the basket periodically for even cooking and don't forget that a longer press time for the tofu will result in a longer cook time.

Frequently asked questions