Description

This Crispy Air Fryer Tofu recipe delivers perfectly golden and crunchy tofu bites with minimal effort. Using a flavorful batter made from cornstarch, nutritional yeast, soy sauce, and spices, the tofu crisps up beautifully in the air fryer, offering a healthy and versatile plant-based protein option that pairs well with any sauce or dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu and Batter Ingredients

1 block extra firm tofu (vacuum-packed, about 14 oz)
2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 1/2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
2 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce (more as needed)
2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
2–3 teaspoons all-purpose spice blend (e.g., garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper)
Your favorite sauce for serving (e.g., curry sauce, stir-fry sauce, dipping sauce)

Instructions

Mix The Batter: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the nutritional yeast, cornstarch, soy sauce, oil, and your chosen spice blend until smooth. The batter should be loose and runny; if it appears too thick, add 1-2 teaspoons more soy sauce to loosen it.
Coat The Tofu: Tear the extra firm tofu into bite-sized chunks and transfer directly into the bowl with the batter. Gently toss using a wide spatula to ensure every piece is fully coated with the batter.
Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Place the tofu chunks in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, then stop and shake the basket to turn the tofu for even cooking. Continue air frying for an additional 5 minutes or until the tofu is golden and crispy to your liking.
Sauce and Serve: Once cooked, toss the crispy tofu in your favorite sauce or serve them alongside a dipping sauce. These tofu bites are perfect for curries, stir-fries, rice bowls, or simply as a snack.

Notes

Use vacuum-packed extra firm tofu to skip pressing and reduce preparation time.
Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor and helps with crispiness, but can be omitted if unavailable.
The all-purpose spice blend can be tailored to your taste – common choices include garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Choose your favorite sauce to complement the tofu, such as soy-ginger sauce, peanut sauce, or sweet chili sauce.
Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model; check tofu for crispiness before ending cooking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Snack, Main Dish
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: Fusion, Plant-Based

Keywords: Crispy tofu, air fryer tofu, vegan tofu recipe, healthy tofu, plant-based protein, easy tofu snack