Crispy Air-Fryer Tofu

1. 1
   prep · ~10 min

   Press the tofu.

   1.Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

   2.Place a heavy skillet or tofu press on top and let sit for at least 10 minutes to remove excess water.

   3.Unwrap and cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes.

   TIPThe drier the tofu, the crispier the final result. Don't skip pressing.
2. 2
   mix · ~2 min

   Make the glaze.

   1.In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.

   2.Season with salt and black pepper. Set aside.
3. 3
   prep · ~2 min

   Coat the tofu with cornstarch.

   1.Place tofu cubes in a large bowl and sprinkle cornstarch evenly over them.

   2.Gently toss with your hands or a spatula until each piece is evenly coated with a thin, dry layer.

   TIPMake sure every surface is covered — this is what creates the crispy shell.
4. 4
   bake · ~10 min

   Air-fry the tofu.

   1.Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

   2.Arrange the cornstarch-coated tofu in a single layer in the air-fryer basket, leaving space between pieces.

   3.Air-fry for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

   4.The tofu should be golden and crispy on all sides.

   TIPAvoid overcrowding the basket — cook in batches if needed. Airflow is key for crispiness.
5. 5
   other · ~1 min

   Toss the tofu in the glaze.

   1.Transfer the hot, crispy tofu to a clean bowl.

   2.Pour the prepared glaze over the tofu and gently toss until every piece is evenly coated.

   3.Sprinkle red chili flakes on top if using.
6. 6
   garnish

   Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

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