Air Fryer Crispy Tofu: The Secret To Perfection

Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, but getting it crispy can be a challenge. However, with an air fryer, you can easily achieve that perfect crunchy texture. The air fryer's high-powered convection oven cooks food as if it were being fried, but with air instead of oil, making it a healthier option.

To make crispy tofu in an air fryer, start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture, which will help it crisp up during cooking. Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces or cubes, and then season it with your choice of spices, sauces, and oils. You can also coat the tofu in cornstarch, arrowroot starch, or potato starch for an extra crispy exterior.

Place the tofu pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a little space around each piece to ensure even cooking. Set the air fryer to 375-400°F and cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to toss the tofu and ensure even browning. Your tofu is ready when it's golden brown and crispy all over.

This method of cooking tofu is not only quick and easy but also delivers a delicious, crispy texture that's perfect for salads, bowls, or even just snacking on its own.

The importance of pressing tofu and how to do it

The commercial manufacturing process leaves a lot of moisture in tofu. In recipes that require tofu to hold its shape, it is crucial to press the tofu to remove enough water so that it will maintain its structure when used in recipes for salads, stir-fries, or grilling. Unless you do this, the tofu will fall apart and lose its shape. Pressing improves the texture of tofu and is essential when it will be fried.

How to press tofu:

You can buy a tofu press or use household items to press tofu. Here is a list of what you will need:

• Paper towels or a clean dish/tea cloth
• A large bowl or second cutting board
• A heavy object to use as a weight (a large can of food, frying pan, iron skillet, books, etc.)

Place a folded towel or cloth on a cutting board, then put the tofu on the paper towels. Place another layer of folded paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth on top of the tofu block. Put the bowl or another cutting board on top of the top layer of paper towels, then place the weight into the bowl or on the cutting board. The weight should be heavy enough to press down evenly across the tofu, but not so heavy that it will cause the tofu block to crumble. Let the tofu sit for at least 30 minutes. The weight will gradually and effectively squeeze the moisture out of the tofu, which will be absorbed by the paper towels.

Other ways to press tofu:

• Slice the tofu in half and place a few paper towels and a heavy skillet on top.
• Wrap the tofu in a kitchen or paper towel and place a heavy cast-iron skillet on top.

How to cut tofu for the air fryer

Cutting tofu for the air fryer is an important step to ensure even cooking and the perfect crispy texture. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to cut tofu for the air fryer:

• Start with a block of extra-firm tofu: It's important to use extra-firm tofu as softer types may fall apart and not get crispy enough. Drain the tofu and remove it from its package.
• Press the tofu: Place the tofu block on a cutting board and gently squeeze out excess water with your hands without breaking the block. You can also use a tofu press or wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and gently press it with a heavy object like a skillet or books. This step helps remove moisture, making the tofu less mushy and more receptive to marinades.
• Cut or tear the tofu: For even cooking and browning, cut the tofu into uniform pieces. You can cut the tofu into cubes of about 1-inch in size, or you can tear it into bite-sized pieces for a craggy texture that holds sauces well.
• Marinade and seasoning (optional): If you want to add extra flavour to your tofu, you can marinate it after cutting. Place the tofu pieces in a shallow baking dish or bowl and pour your chosen marinade over them. Let the tofu sit for about 15 minutes, tossing it halfway through. You can also season the tofu with spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or ground ginger.
• Toss with cornstarch: Before placing the tofu in the air fryer, toss it with cornstarch, arrowroot starch, or potato starch. This step will help create an extra crispy coating on your tofu.
• Arrange in the air fryer: Place the tofu pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a little space around each piece to ensure even cooking and browning. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
• Cook: Follow the cooking instructions for your chosen air fryer tofu recipe, typically cooking at around 400°F for 10-15 minutes, tossing or shaking the basket halfway through. The tofu is done when it's evenly browned and crispy.

By following these steps and adjusting the cutting and cooking times based on your air fryer model, you'll end up with perfectly crispy tofu that's ready to be enjoyed as a snack or added to your favourite dishes!

The best tofu types and alternatives for crispy air fryer tofu

To achieve the perfect crispy tofu in an air fryer, it is crucial to select the right type of tofu and prepare it appropriately. Here are some tips and alternatives to ensure you get that desirable crispy texture:

Selecting the Right Tofu Type

The ideal tofu for air frying is the extra-firm variety. This type of tofu has less water content compared to softer options, which is key to achieving a crispy texture. The reduced water content helps the tofu hold its shape better during cooking, preventing it from falling apart.

If you're looking for alternatives, you can also go for super-firm or high-protein tofu varieties, which are even denser than extra-firm tofu and can crisp up nicely without the need for pressing.

One crucial tip is to avoid silken tofu. This type of tofu has a wrong texture for air frying and will fall apart if you attempt to press it.

Preparing Tofu for Air Frying

To get the most out of your tofu and ensure it crisps up nicely, there are a few preparation techniques you can use:

• Pressing: Pressing the tofu before cooking helps to remove excess moisture, making the tofu firmer and crispier when cooked. You can use a tofu press, a cast-iron skillet, or even a stack of books to press the tofu.
• Freezing: Another alternative is to freeze your extra-firm tofu for a few days or up to several months before using it. When you're ready, defrost it in the microwave or transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. During this process, it will release a significant amount of moisture, similar to pressing.
• Vacuum-packed tofu: If you want to skip the pressing step altogether, look for vacuum-packed tofu, which is already firm and pressed, saving you time and effort.

Marinating for Added Flavour

While not mandatory, marinating your tofu can take your air fryer tofu to the next level. A good marinade will infuse your tofu with flavour and create a more exciting dish. Here are some ideas for your marinade:

• Soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free) adds a rich and salty flavour to your tofu.
• Rice wine vinegar brings a touch of sweet acidity to the marinade.
• Pure maple syrup naturally sweetens the marinade while pairing well with soy sauce.
• Spices like garlic powder, ground ginger, and hot sauce can add a kick of flavour to your tofu.

Remember to cut your tofu into cubes before marinating to increase the surface area and allow for more even cooking.

The Secret Weapon for Crispiness

When it comes to achieving that perfect crispiness, cornstarch is the secret ingredient. Coating your tofu in cornstarch before air frying will give it a delicious crispy coating.

Cooking it All Together

Now that you've selected the right tofu, prepared it, and maybe even marinated it, it's time to cook! Here's a simple guide:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (or 375°F if you're aiming for a lower temperature).
• Arrange your tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space around each piece to allow for even cooking.
• Air fry for 10 to 15 minutes, tossing or shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
• Remove the tofu from the air fryer once it's crisp and browned around the edges.

And there you have it! The perfect crispy air fryer tofu, made with the right tofu type and enhanced with some preparation and cooking techniques. Enjoy!

The best oils for crispy tofu

Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in many ways, but achieving the perfect crispiness can be tricky. One of the key factors in getting crispy tofu is the type of oil used. Different oils have different smoke points, flavours, and health benefits, so choosing the right one can elevate your tofu dish. This guide will explore the best oils for crispy tofu and provide tips on how to get the best results.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is a popular choice for cooking tofu due to its high smoke point. It has a mild flavour that won't overpower the tofu, and it adds a rich mouthfeel to the dish. Avocado oil is also a good source of healthy monounsaturated fats, making it a nutritious option. When using avocado oil, preheat your air fryer to 400°F and cook the tofu for 11-15 minutes, tossing it halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Sesame Oil

Sesame oil adds a unique nutty flavour to tofu and is perfect for Asian-inspired dishes. It has a relatively low smoke point, so it's best to use it in combination with other oils or add it towards the end of cooking. Sesame oil is a good source of antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. When using sesame oil, cook the tofu at 400°F for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil is a heart-healthy option that can add a fruity flavour to your tofu. It has a relatively lower smoke point compared to other oils, so it's best suited for dishes that require lower heat. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and contains antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice. Cook your tofu at 400°F for 25 to 30 minutes, tossing it halfway through, for the best results.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a versatile option that works well in sweet and savoury tofu dishes. It has a high smoke point and a subtle coconut flavour that enhances the taste of the tofu. Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides, which are easily absorbed and used by the body for energy. When using coconut oil, preheat your air fryer to 375°F and cook the tofu for about 15 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

Tips for Crispy Tofu

• Always use extra-firm tofu: Softer types of tofu will fall apart and won't get crispy.
• Press the tofu to remove excess moisture: This step ensures that your tofu cooks up extra firm and crisp.
• Toss the tofu with oil and seasonings: This helps to create a delicious crispy coating.
• Arrange the tofu in a single layer: Leave a little space around each piece to allow for even cooking and crisping.
• Experiment with different oils and seasonings: Find the combination that suits your taste preferences.

By choosing the right oil and following these tips, you'll be on your way to achieving the perfect crispy tofu in your air fryer!

How long to cook tofu in the air fryer

The length of time it takes to cook tofu in an air fryer depends on the desired level of crispiness and the specific air fryer being used. On average, it takes around 10 to 20 minutes to cook tofu in an air fryer, with some recipes recommending a cooking time of 11 to 15 minutes, or until the tofu is crisp and browned around the edges. It is important to keep an eye on the tofu during the cooking process, as the timing may vary based on the air fryer model.

• Prepare the tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, which will help achieve a crispier texture. Cut the tofu into cubes or tear it into bite-sized pieces.
• Season the tofu: Place the tofu pieces in a mixing bowl and add your desired seasonings, such as oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and cornstarch. Toss gently to coat the tofu evenly.
• Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature, typically around 375-400°F.
• Cook the tofu: Arrange the seasoned tofu pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking. Set the timer and cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to toss the tofu and ensure even browning.
• Check for doneness: Keep an eye on the tofu during the cooking process, as the timing may vary. The tofu is done when it is evenly deep golden brown and super crispy on all sides.
• Serve: Remove the tofu from the air fryer and serve immediately. Enjoy your crispy tofu as a snack or add it to your favourite dishes such as stir-fries, rice bowls, or salads.

It's important to note that different air fryers may have varying cooking times and temperatures, so it's always a good idea to refer to the specific instructions for your air fryer model. Additionally, the type of tofu used (extra-firm, firm, or silken) and the size of the tofu pieces can also impact the cooking time. It is recommended to cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes or tear it into bite-sized pieces for optimal cooking.

Frequently asked questions