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Air Fryer Crispy Tofu: A Delicious and Healthy Delight

Tofu, often shunned for its bland reputation, can transform into a crispy, flavour-packed delicacy with just a hint of creativity and the right cooking method. Enter the air fryer—a kitchen marvel that allows for healthier cooking without compromising on taste and texture. In this article, we’ll explore the best way to achieve that coveted crispy tofu texture using your air fryer, along with tips for flavouring and serving.

The Appeal of Air-Fried Tofu

Tofu is a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making it a favourite among vegetarians, vegans, and anyone seeking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. While traditional frying can add unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats, air frying provides a guilt-free alternative. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, resulting in a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and tender inside—perfect for tofu.

Selecting the Right Tofu

The first step to making crispy tofu is choosing the right type. For air frying, firm or extra-firm tofu is ideal as it holds its shape well and provides the best texture. Silken tofu, while delicious in smoothies or soups, can be too delicate for frying.

Preparing Tofu for Air Frying

1. Drain and Press: Begin by draining the tofu thoroughly. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object, like a cast-iron skillet, on top. Allow it to sit for at least 15-30 minutes to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial, as moisture is the enemy of crispiness.

2. Cut into Cubes: Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or rectangles according to your preference.

3. Marinate: To enhance the flavour, marinate your tofu. A simple mixture of soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger, and sesame oil works wonders. For an added kick, consider adding some chilli flakes or sriracha. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 15 minutes; the longer it sits, the more flavour it absorbs.

4. Coat with Cornflour: For an extra crunch, toss the marinated tofu in cornflour (cornstarch) before air frying. This will create a crispy coating that locks in the moisture during cooking.

Air Frying Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating is key to achieving that perfect crunch. Set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes.

2. Arrange the Tofu: Place the tofu pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding, as this can prevent even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.

3. Air Fry: Cook the tofu for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping. The tofu is done when golden and crispy on all sides.

4. Serve and Enjoy: Once out of the air fryer, your crispy tofu is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it on top of a salad, stir it into vegetable stir-fries, or enjoy it with a dipping sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy tofu is versatile and can be paired with various dishes. Here are a few serving ideas:

• Crispy Tofu Bowls: Create a nourishing bowl with brown rice or quinoa, steamed vegetables, and a drizzle of tahini or peanut sauce.
• In Stir-Fried Dishes: Add it into your favourite stir-fry recipe for an added protein kick.
• Tacos: Use crispy tofu as a filling for tacos, topped with fresh avocado, salsa, and crunchy slaw.
• Salads: Toss crispy tofu cubes into salads for a protein boost.

Conclusion

Air fryer crispy tofu is not just a meal; it’s an experience—a delightful blend of health and taste that should not be overlooked. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a deliciously satisfying dish that fits perfectly into any diet. Experiment with different marinades and accompaniments, and you may just find your new favourite go-to recipe!

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