Craving a delicious, healthy meal that’s ready in a flash? This Crispy Sesame Air Fryer Tofu recipe transforms simple tofu into a flavor-packed, healthy air fryer meal with an irresistible crunch, perfect for any weeknight.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Extra-Firm Tofu: Essential for crispiness. Don’t use silken or soft tofu.
- Soy Sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor.
- Cornstarch: Key for achieving that amazing crispy coating. Arrowroot powder is a good substitute.
- Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness. Agave nectar also works.
- Sesame Seeds: For garnish and extra texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2-3
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 (depending on portion size and exact ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Air fryer, mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Press and Cube Your Tofu
Begin by pressing your extra-firm tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove excess water. This step is crucial for crispy results. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
2. Prepare the Sesame Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, minced garlic, and optional grated ginger. This creates a flavorful glaze for your tofu.
3. Coat the Tofu
Add the cubed tofu to the bowl with the glaze. Gently toss the tofu until each piece is evenly coated. Now, sprinkle the cornstarch over the coated tofu and toss again until well distributed. The cornstarch is your secret weapon for extra crispiness in this healthy air fryer recipe.
4. Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. Arrange the tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. You may need to cook in batches. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and delightfully crispy.
5. Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, transfer your crispy sesame air fryer tofu to a serving dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Serve immediately as a fantastic healthy air fryer meal component.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
- Orange Zest: Include a teaspoon of orange zest for a bright, citrusy note.
- Veggies Included: Air fry some broccoli or bell peppers alongside the tofu for a complete meal.
- Sweet & Sour: Add a tablespoon of rice vinegar and a teaspoon of tomato paste to the glaze for a tangy twist.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover crispy sesame air fryer tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the tofu back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-8 minutes, or until warmed through and re-crisped. Avoid reheating in the microwave if you want to maintain the crispy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Why do I need to press the tofu? Pressing tofu removes excess water, allowing it to absorb more flavor and become much crispier when cooked in the air fryer.
- Can I bake this tofu instead of air frying? Yes, you can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for 25-35 minutes, flipping halfway, but the air fryer yields a crispier result.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this a delicious gluten-free healthy air fryer recipe.
- What can I serve with this tofu? It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple side salad.
- Can I prepare the tofu ahead of time? You can press and cube the tofu ahead of time, but it’s best to coat and air fry it just before serving for optimal crispiness.
- My tofu isn’t crispy. What went wrong? Ensure you pressed the tofu thoroughly, didn’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, and air-fried it at the correct temperature for long enough.
