Crispy Tofu in an Air Fryer
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Air fryer tofu so good you’ll be planning when to make it again after the first bite!
Tofu in an Air Fryer
Crispy Tofu in an Air Fryer
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We have an amazing Thai restaurant that serves the most delicious fried tofu with a spicy peanut sauce, and I order it every single time. No hesitation. No regrets.
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Their tofu is perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, and somehow simple in the best possible way. Over the years I’ve tried recreating it at home—marinating it, seasoning it, adding all the things—and every time I came back to the same conclusion: plain tofu, done right, is just better.
So today I’m sharing the easiest, no-nonsense way to make crispy tofu at home using the air fryer. No fancy marinades. No complicated steps. Just crispy, golden tofu that’s perfect for dipping, tossing in sauce, or snacking straight from the basket.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Tofu
- Ridiculously easy – Just a few pantry staples
- Crispy without deep frying
- Neutral flavor that works with any sauce
- Ready in about 10 minutes once prepped
This is one of those recipes that feels almost too simple… until you taste it.
Ingredients
- Extra firm tofu
- Cornstarch
- Garlic salt
- Vegetable oil
That’s it. Seriously.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Press the Tofu
Wrap the tofu in paper towels, place it between two plates, and put something heavy on top (a skillet or canned goods work great). Let it sit for about 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. This step is key for crispiness.
Step 2: Cut (or Tear!)
Slice the tofu into cubes. Optional: Tear the tofu into chunks instead of cutting it. The rough edges create little nooks and crannies that grab onto sauces beautifully—especially if you’re planning to toss it in peanut sauce later.
Step 3: Coat
Toss the tofu with cornstarch and garlic salt until evenly coated.
Step 4: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer. Lightly oil the basket and add the tofu in a single layer. Cook, shaking once or twice, until the tofu is golden and crispy to your liking.
If you don’t have an air fryer, try our pan-fried crispy tofu recipe!
Tips & Notes
Sauce lovers: This tofu is especially great if you plan to coat it in sauce after cooking, the crispy edges hold on beautifully.
Keep it simple. I tested this with soy sauce, extra spices, and marinades – and honestly? Plain won every time.
Serve it with sauce. This tofu is amazing dipped in peanut sauce, tossed in stir fry sauce, or added to our stir-fry noodle recipe.
Serving Ideas
- Appetizer with spicy peanut sauce
- Tossed into rice bowls or noodle dishes
- Added to salads for crunch
- Snacked on straight from the air fryer (no judgment)
More great air fryer recipes to try!
- Air Fryer Spinach Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
- Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
- Air Fryer Frozen French Fries Recipe
- Air Fryer Hamburgers Recipe
- See all our easy air fryer recipes!
How to Make Tofu in an Air Fryer
Tofu in an Air Fryer (Recipe)
Ingredients
- 14 ounces extra firm tofu
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare the tofu by wrapping it in paper towels, placing it between two plates, and putting something heavy on top for about 15 minutes. This will help to squeeze much of the excess water out.
- Slice the tofu into 1" cubes, then toss with the cornstarch and garlic salt. (Or tear into pieces if you want a more organic "nugget" feel).
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Lightly oil the basket and add the tofu in a single layer.
- Cook for 10–15 minutes, shaking once or twice, until the tofu is golden and crispy to your liking.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu is key for crispiness—don’t skip this step.
- Cook time may vary by air fryer; shake once or twice for even browning.
- Delicious served plain or tossed in your favorite sauce.
Nutrition
Did You Make This Recipe?
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Tools we love
- Kitchen tongs – Every kitchen needs a good pair of tongs.
- Digital air fryer – We have this Cosori 6 quart air fryer. It’s great!
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