Crispy & Tender Air Fryer Tofu
Super Easy Air Fryer Tofu Recipe for a Healthy Snack
Introducing an incredibly simple air fryer tofu recipe that’s perfect for when you need a healthy snack or a light meal. This tofu is delightfully crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making it a fantastic side dish for rice or a satisfying snack. Drizzled with Oriental dressing, its flavor is elevated to new heights.
Ingredients- 1 block Tofu (firm or extra-firm recommended)
- 1.5 Tbsp Perilla Oil (or sesame oil)
- 2 Tbsp Oriental Dressing
- 1 pinch Salt
- 1 pinch Black Pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper or an air fryer liner. Place the block of tofu carefully onto the prepared liner. It’s best to leave a little space between pieces if you’re cooking multiple blocks, to ensure even cooking.
Step 2
Gently score the surface of the tofu with a knife, creating a grid pattern like a checkerboard. Make cuts about 0.5 cm apart. This helps the seasoning penetrate and makes the tofu look more appealing when cooked.
Step 3
Be careful not to cut too deeply into the tofu, as this can cause it to crumble. Aim to cut only about two-thirds of the way through the tofu. This technique preserves the tofu’s shape while allowing the flavors to soak in.
Step 4
Brush the scored tofu evenly with 1.5 tablespoons of perilla oil (or sesame oil). The nutty aroma of the perilla oil complements the tofu beautifully, enhancing its overall flavor. Using a pastry brush will help distribute the oil uniformly.
Step 5
Season the tofu with 1 pinch of salt for a touch of flavor and sprinkle 1 pinch of black pepper over the top. This light seasoning brings out the natural taste of the tofu and adds a delicious depth.
Step 6
Place the prepared tofu into the air fryer and cook at 180°C (356°F) for 20 minutes. You can check on the tofu halfway through and flip the pieces for more even browning. It’s ready when it turns golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 7
Once cooked, transfer the crispy tofu to a serving plate. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of Oriental dressing over the top for a burst of refreshing flavor. This tangy dressing pairs wonderfully with the mild tofu. Serve immediately while warm for the best texture.
