Description
Craving something crispy, protein-packed, and ready in under 30 minutes? The Best Crispy Air Fryer Tofu is the perfect solution for healthy snack lovers and those hunting for quick lunch or dinner ideas. It’s golden and crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with bold flavors from spices like smoked paprika and garlic. Whether you’re looking for a high-protein vegan snack, a side dish for dinner, or something to throw into a grain bowl—this easy recipe checks all the boxes. Ideal for anyone searching for easy dinner ideas, healthy snack alternatives, or plant-based food ideas that don’t sacrifice texture or taste.
Ingredients
1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Dipping sauce of choice
Instructions
1. Press the tofu for 20–30 minutes to remove moisture. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a large bowl, toss tofu with soy sauce, oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes to absorb flavor.
4. Sprinkle cornstarch over tofu and gently toss until evenly coated.
5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer without overcrowding.
6. Air fry for 10 minutes, shake the basket, and air fry for another 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy.
7. Transfer to a plate, garnish with herbs, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
8. Enjoy hot and crispy, or add to bowls, wraps, or salads.
Notes
Pressing tofu is essential for the crispiest texture—don’t skip it!
Cornstarch (or arrowroot) creates that irresistible golden crust.
Shake the air fryer basket halfway through for even crisping on all sides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack / Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American / Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 0mg