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Crispy Tofu Bites in the Air Fryer: A Protein-Packed Snack

Tofu can often be a polarising ingredient; some adore its versatility, while others find it lacking in flavour and texture. However, when prepared correctly, tofu can deliver a delightful crunch and an abundance of flavour. Enter the air fryer, a culinary marvel that transforms humble blocks of tofu into crispy, golden bites that are perfect for snacking, serving as an appetiser, or even as a topping for salads. Let’s dive into how to make these scrumptious crispy tofu bites that are not only easy to prepare, but also packed with protein, making them an excellent addition to any diet.

Why Choose Tofu?

Tofu is an exceptional source of plant-based protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, making it a fantastic alternative for vegetarians and vegans. Additionally, it’s low in calories and packed with iron and calcium. The versatility of tofu allows it to absorb flavours from marinades and seasonings, enabling you to tailor it to your taste preferences.

Ingredients

To make crispy tofu bites in the air fryer, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 400g block of firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste

Optional Dipping Sauce

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Chilli flakes, to taste

Method

Step 1: Drain and Press the Tofu

Start by draining the firm tofu. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, and place something heavy on top—like a cast iron skillet or a few cans—so that it presses out as much water as possible. Allow it to press for at least 15-30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that desired crispiness.

Step 2: Cube the Tofu

After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. Aim for approximately 1-inch pieces, as this size will allow for even cooking and maximises the crunchy surface area.

Step 3: Marinate

In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the cubed tofu to the marinade and toss gently to coat all pieces thoroughly. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 15 minutes; longer is always better to impart more flavour.

Step 4: Coat with Cornstarch

Sprinkle the cornstarch over the marinated tofu and toss gently again. This step is key to achieving that lovely crunchy exterior when cooked.

Step 5: Air Fry the Tofu

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F). Lightly spray or brush the basket with some oil to prevent sticking. Once heated, carefully place the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Cook the tofu for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking, until the tofu is golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serve

While the tofu bites are cooking, prepare the optional dipping sauce by whisking together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and chilli flakes in a small bowl. Once the tofu is done, let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your crispy tofu bites hot, either on their own or with the dipping sauce.

Conclusion

Crispy tofu bites made in the air fryer are a delicious, protein-rich snack that everyone can enjoy. With their delightful crunch and ability to take on a variety of flavours, these bites are a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet. Perfect for a quick snack, a party appetiser, or as a salad topper, these tofu bites are sure to impress. Give them a go, and you might just find that tofu is a new favourite in your culinary repertoire!