Go Back

Crispy Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu

A quick and satisfying recipe for crispy air fryer tofu seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and garlic, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Vegan
Cuisine: Asian, Quick Meal
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Tofu Preparation
  • 1 block extra-firm or super-firm tofu (14 to 16 ounces) Choose super-firm for no pressing; otherwise, press extra-firm for 10-15 minutes.
Coating
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like avocado or canola) Helps the coating stick.
  • 2-3 teaspoons cornstarch Provides a crispy coating.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Plus more to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Use freshly ground for best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Add for flavor.
Optional Toppings
  • 1 small jalapeño (sliced thin) For added heat.
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced) For finishing sizzle.
  • 2 scallions (sliced) scallions For garnish.
  • 1 wedge lime For a squeeze over the finished dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 390 F for 3 minutes.
  2. Press extra-firm tofu for 10 to 15 minutes using a clean towel and something heavy. If using super-firm tofu, skip pressing.
  3. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes or triangles.
  4. Pat the tofu dry again to remove any excess moisture.
  5. Toss the tofu with 1 tablespoon of neutral oil.
  6. Coat the tofu with 2 to 3 teaspoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder until evenly coated.
Cooking
  1. Arrange the tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring no overlapping. Cook in batches if necessary.
  2. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. For extra crunch, add an additional 2 minutes.
  3. For optional finishing, warm a teaspoon of oil in a small skillet, then cook the minced garlic and jalapeño for 30 seconds before tossing with the hot tofu.
  4. Garnish with sliced scallions and a squeeze of lime.

Notes

Serve with rice bowls, noodles, or salads. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and re-crisp in the air fryer before serving.