The Very Best Air Fryer Tofu (No Cornstarch!)

User Reviews

4.7

859 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    30 mins

  • Cook Time

    15 mins

  • Total Time

    45 mins

  • Servings

    4 servings

  • Calories

    165 kcal

  • Course

    Side Dish

  • Cuisine

    American

The Very Best Air Fryer Tofu (No Cornstarch!)

This air fryer tofu recipe produces flavorful, evenly cooked tofu cubes without using cornstarch. The tofu is pressed to remove moisture, then marinated in a mix of soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, olive oil, and minced garlic. Cooking in the air fryer crisps the tofu edges while keeping a tender interior. The method enables a quicker cook with fewer ingredients while emphasizing savory and aromatic notes from the marinade.

Description

The Very Best Air Fryer Tofu uses extra-firm tofu pressed to reduce watery texture. Pressing prevents sogginess and allows better absorption of marinade. The marinade combines soy sauce for saltiness, toasted sesame oil for a rich nutty flavor, olive oil for moisture, and fresh garlic for pungency. After tossing the tofu in this mixture, it marinates briefly to enhance flavor.

Air frying at 375°F crisps the tofu's exterior while maintaining a firm interior. Occasional shaking ensures even exposure to heat and prevents sticking. As no cornstarch is used, the texture relies on pressing and marinade oils for crispness instead of coating. The result is a well-flavored tofu suitable for serving in stir-fries, salads, or as a snack.

The recipe notes suggest substituting olive oil for sesame oil if needed and recommend storing cooked tofu in an airtight container refrigerate up to 4–5 days. Reheating in the air fryer or pan helps restore texture. For even firmer tofu, vacuum-sealed super-firm tofu or a freeze-thaw-press technique is advised.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 1 oz block extra-firm tofu 453 g
  • 2 Tbsp soy sauce 30 mL
  • 1 Tbsp sesame oil 15 mL, toasted
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil 15 mL
  • 1 clove garlic minced

Instructions

  1. Press: Press tofu for at least 15 minutes, using either a tofu press or by setting a heavy pan on top of it and letting the moisture drain. When finished, cut tofu into bite-sized blocks and transfer to a bowl.
  2. Flavor: Combine all remaining ingredients in a small bowl. Drizzle over tofu and toss to coat. Let tofu marinate for an additional 15 minutes.
  3. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190 C). Add tofu blocks to your air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally to promote even cooking.

Notes

  • Sesame oil can be replaced with olive oil if unavailable, adjusting the flavor slightly.
  • Store cooked tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days for best quality.
  • Reheat tofu in the air fryer or a skillet to regain crispiness before serving.
  • For firmer texture, use super-firm vacuum-sealed tofu or freeze, thaw, and press the tofu before marinating.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Serving 1serving Calories 165kcal (8%) Carbohydrates 3.3g (1%) Protein 11.1g (22%) Fat 13.2g (20%) Saturated Fat 1.9g (10%) Cholesterol 0mg (0%) Sodium 460mg (19%) Potassium 178mg (4%) Fiber 0.5g (2%) Sugar 0.2g (0%) Calcium 460mg (46%) Iron 7mg (39%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 165 kcal

% Daily Value*

Serving 1serving
Calories 165kcal 8%
Carbohydrates 3.3g 1%
Protein 11.1g 22%
Fat 13.2g 20%
Saturated Fat 1.9g 10%
Cholesterol 0mg 0%
Sodium 460mg 19%
Potassium 178mg 4%
Fiber 0.5g 2%
Sugar 0.2g 0%
Calcium 460mg 46%
Iron 7mg 39%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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Overall Rating

4.7

859 reviews
Excellent

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