With hints of sesame and garlic, this crispy Air Fryer Tofu recipe will knock your socks off with its delightful textures and flavors! Gluten-free and vegan.
Crispy, golden tofu ready to be devoured on its own or incorporated into your favorite dishes. This Air Fryer Tofu recipe is the best thing to happen to tofu since...ever! With hints of sesame and garlic, not only do you have that wonderful texture, you also have a delightful splash of flavor that is dare I say...addictive? I hope you love this air fried tofu as much as we do!
How-to Make
1. Press and drain tofu. 
2. Slice into cubes. 
3. Make marinade. 
4. Drizzle over tofu cubes. 
5. Let marinate for 10 minutes. 
6. Place into air fryer basket or tray. 
7. Air fry for 15 minutes. 
8. Enjoy!
How-to Use and Serve
- On its own — it's that good!
- Served with a favorite dipping sauce. We are partial to Golden Tahini Sauce.
- Served on a bed of rice, quinoa or rice noodles.
- Alongside some roasted or steamed veggies.
Tips, Tricks and FAQ
What kind of tofu should I use?
Extra firm! The firmer the tofu, the crispier the results. I am fond of organic sprouted varieties of tofu for that added nutritional value. But, any tofu will work well, so long as it is firm!
Pressing Tofu
Pressing the liquid out of tofu is essential for that addictively crispy texture. You can use a tofu press or use any large object such as a heavy pan, books or canned goods and place them on top of the block of tofu (I like to wrap the tofu in a dish towel when doing this), allowing the liquid to drain.
Will this recipe work without marinade?
Yes! You can simply drizzle a little oil over the tofu cubes (or omit oil!), then air fry as instructed.
Air Fryers
There can be slight variances in air fryer models as far as temperature and time needed. The important thing is to simply look out for that golden color and crispness as a tell-tale sign it's ready. It's okay if the tofu still seems slightly soft in the middle, as it does continue to crisp while it cools!
How-to Store and Reheat
This air fryer tofu tastes great warm, at room temperature, or even cold! You can store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in air-tight containers. To reheat simply place in a 400F air fryer or conventional oven, or pan fry on the stovetop until warmed throughout.
More Tofu Recipes You Will Love
Sticky Maple Ginger Tofu Noodle Bowl (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Sweet & Spicy Green Power Tofu Quinoa Bowl (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
More Air Fryer Recipes You Must Try
Air Fryer Tofu
Ingredients
Tofu
- 1 14-ounce block of tofu, extra firm pressed and drained
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons coconut aminos or soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or oil of choice
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey if not vegan
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt or pink salt
Instructions
- Using a tofu press or a very heavy pot placed on top of the block of tofu, press the tofu and allow the excess moisture to drain.
- While the tofu is draining, in a small bowl combine all remaining ingredients. Whisk to combine.
- Slice pressed tofu into 1/2-1" cubes. Place into a large bowl.
- Drizzle marinade over the tofu and toss to coat. Let sit and marinate for 10 minutes.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
- Place marinated tofu into air fryer basket or tray. Air fry for 15 minutes or until golden and crispy on the outside, shaking the basket/tray once in a while to ensure even cooking.
- Let cool slightly and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Equipment
Maria says
looks healthy and cripsy! I'm on a diet so maybe this would help me prepare a healthy meal for myself.
Kristen Wood says
Thank you!!
Seema Sriram says
Making perfect tofu is every vegan's dream. With this recipe, you have simplified the whole process. It looks deliciously perfect.
Kristen Wood says
Thank you so much! 🙂
Alison says
I love making tofu in the air fryer. It comes out so crisp and perfect. This has such a nice seasoning! Great to put in your buddha bowls!
Kristen Wood says
I'm so happy to hear that! Thank you! 🙂
Megan Ellam says
Going to try this! I am a fan of tofu and haven't yet tried it in my air fryer. Thanks for the recipe and tips.
Kristen Wood says
Thank you!
Mairead says
What a great, tasty and versatile recipe. I love that you used avocado oil for making this crispy tofu.
Kristen Wood says
Thank you so much!!
Biana says
Tofu looks so crispy! What a great idea for a snack.
Kristen Wood says
Thank you so much!!