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Crispy Teriyaki Tofu Recipe (Air Fried)

If you’re looking for a deliciously crispy, flavourful dish that’s not only vegan but remarkably easy to prepare, then look no further than this Crispy Teriyaki Tofu recipe. With the help of an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect golden crispiness on the outside while keeping the tofu tender and succulent on the inside. This dish is not just healthy; it’s packed with umami flavour, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetiser.

Ingredients

For the Tofu:

• 400g firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• A pinch of salt

For the Teriyaki Glaze:

• 60ml soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon mirin (optional)
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Chopped spring onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu:
   Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture, which will help it crisp up nicely in the air fryer. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top (like a skillet) for about 30 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.

2. Coat the Tofu:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch and a pinch of salt. Add the pressed tofu cubes and gently toss them until they are evenly coated. This coating will create a wonderfully crispy texture when air-fried.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Set your air fryer to 200°C (or 390°F) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes.

4. Air Fry the Tofu:
   Lightly coat the air fryer basket with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Place the tofu cubes in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Air fry for approximately 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The tofu should turn golden brown and crispy.

5. Make the Teriyaki Glaze:
   While the tofu is cooking, prepare the teriyaki glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, mirin, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Stir frequently until the mixture begins to simmer and the sugar dissolves. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Combine Tofu and Glaze:
   Once the tofu is cooked to perfection, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Pour the hot teriyaki glaze over the crispy tofu and gently toss to ensure each piece is well-coated.

7. Serve and Garnish:
   Serve the crispy teriyaki tofu immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and finely chopped spring onions. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or as part of a vibrant stir-fry. You can also add mixed vegetables for an even healthier option.

Conclusion

This Crispy Teriyaki Tofu recipe is a fantastic way to introduce more plant-based meals into your diet without sacrificing flavour or texture. The air fryer makes the cooking process effortless, creating a satisfying crunch that will impress even the most discerning palates. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to become a favourite in your home. Enjoy your culinary adventure into the heart of Japanese cuisine, and relish the delightful harmony of flavours!