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Air Fryer Crispy Tofu with Sesame Soy Glaze, air fryer dinner recipes for busy nights
Brittany Stage

Air Fryer Crispy Tofu with Sesame Soy Glaze

Extra-firm tofu pressed dry, tossed with cornstarch, and air fried at 400 degrees F comes out with genuinely crispy edges, then gets finished in a quick sesame soy glaze that clings to every piece.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Calories: 310

Ingredients
  

  • 2 blocks extra-firm tofu 14 oz each
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil avocado or vegetable oil
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce low sodium preferred
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup for vegan
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated, or 1/4 tsp ground ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp cornstarch for the glaze, mixed with 1 tbsp cold water
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds for serving
  • 2 stalks green onions sliced thin, for serving
  • 3 cups cooked rice or noodles for serving

Equipment

  • air fryer
  • clean kitchen towel or paper towels
  • heavy pan for pressing
  • small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Remove the tofu blocks from their packaging and drain off the liquid. Wrap each block in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels, set them on a plate, and place a heavy pan or cutting board on top. Let them press for at least 20 minutes. This step pulls out the moisture that prevents crisping, so do not rush it.
  2. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F for 3 to 4 minutes. While it heats, cut the pressed tofu into 3/4-inch cubes. Try to keep the pieces uniform so they cook evenly. Add the cubes to a large bowl along with the oil and salt, and toss gently to coat.
  3. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch over the tofu and toss again until each piece is lightly coated. The cornstarch is what gives you the crispy exterior, so make sure it is distributed evenly with no clumps.
  4. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Leave a little space between them. Air fry at 400 degrees F for 15 minutes total, shaking the basket firmly at the 7 or 8 minute mark. When done, the edges should be golden and feel firm when you tap them with a spoon.
  5. While the tofu cooks, make the glaze. Combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir the 1 teaspoon of cornstarch into 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth, then add that slurry to the pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the glaze thickens just enough to coat a spoon. Pull it off the heat.
  6. Transfer the hot crispy tofu to a bowl and pour the glaze over it. Toss quickly so every piece gets coated. Serve immediately over rice or noodles with steamed broccoli, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and sliced green onions on top. Serve right away for the crispiest results.

Notes

For the best texture on leftovers, reheat in the air fryer at 375 degrees F for 4 to 5 minutes rather than the microwave. The glaze can be made up to 5 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Stir it well before using as it may thicken when cold.