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Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu

Name: Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 14 ounces tofu (14-16 ounces extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed); 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or sea salt); 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper; 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat); 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or Tamari for gluten-free); 2 stalks green onions (thinly sliced, for garnish); 1 tablespoon Toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu –Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate crispy and flavorful delight – Salt and Pepper Tofu made right in your air fryer!

Whether you’re a tofu aficionado or a newcomer to this versatile ingredient, you’re in for a treat.

This recipe takes tofu to a whole new level, infusing it with the perfect blend of salt, pepper, and a hint of spice. With the magic of the air fryer, you’ll achieve that irresistible, crispy exterior while keeping the tofu tender on the inside. Join us on this culinary adventure as we explore the simplicity, bold flavors, and unbeatable texture of Salt and Pepper Tofu in the air fryer. It’s a vegan-friendly dish that will leave you craving more with each bite.

Salt and Pepper Tofu

Salt and Pepper Tofu is a tantalizingly savory and crispy dish that combines the delicate flavors of tofu with the bold seasoning of salt, pepper, and aromatic spices. This vegan-friendly delight has gained immense popularity for its irresistible taste and satisfying texture, and making it in the air fryer takes it to a whole new level. Tofu cubes are lightly coated with a seasoned cornstarch mixture, creating a thin and flavorful crust. When air-fried, the tofu transforms into bite-sized pieces of crispy perfection while remaining tender and creamy inside.

The secret to the appeal of Salt and Pepper Tofu lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The salt adds a savory depth, the pepper provides a subtle kick of heat, and the spices enhance the overall aromatic profile. It’s a versatile dish served as an appetizer, a main course, or a tasty addition to salads or stir-fries. Whether you’re a tofu enthusiast or looking for a new and delicious vegan option, Salt and Pepper Tofu in the air fryer promises a delightful culinary experience that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu --Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate crispy and flavorful delight – Salt and Pepper Tofu made right in your air fryer!

Why Cook Tofu In Air Fryer?

Cooking tofu in the air fryer offers several advantages that make it a popular choice:

Crispy Texture: The air fryer’s high-speed hot air circulation creates a crispy exterior on tofu, similar to deep-frying but with significantly less oil. This results in a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior.
Healthier Option: Air frying uses less oil than traditional frying methods, making it healthier. It reduces the calorie and fat content while preserving the taste and texture.
Even Cooking: The air fryer cooks tofu evenly on all sides, eliminating the need to flip or turn it constantly. This ensures that every bite is consistently cooked to perfection.
Time Efficiency: Air-frying tofu is faster than oven-baking and requires less time to preheat. It’s a quick and convenient way to prepare tofu dishes.
Minimal Cleanup: Air fryers with removable, dishwasher-safe parts are typically easy to clean. This makes post-cooking cleanup a breeze.
Versatile Flavors: Tofu readily absorbs flavors, making it a versatile ingredient. In the air fryer, you can infuse it with various seasonings, sauces, and spices to create different flavor profiles.
Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly: Air fryer tofu is an excellent option for vegans and vegetarians seeking a protein-rich, plant-based meal.
Less Odor: Unlike deep-frying, air-frying tofu produces minimal cooking odors, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh.

In summary, cooking tofu in the air fryer is a healthier, quicker, and more convenient way to achieve that perfect crispy texture while retaining the tofu’s natural flavor. It’s an excellent method for preparing a wide range of delicious tofu dishes that are suitable for various dietary preferences.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You’ll absolutely love this recipe for Salt and Pepper Tofu in the air fryer for several fantastic reasons:

Incredible Texture: The air fryer’s magic transforms tofu into crispy, golden nuggets with a satisfying crunch on the outside while keeping the inside beautifully tender. It’s the perfect balance of textures.
Bold Flavors: The seasoning blend of salt, pepper, and aromatic spices creates an explosion of flavors with every bite. The subtle heat from the pepper complements the savory saltiness, making it incredibly delicious.
Healthier Option: Compared to traditional deep-frying, air frying requires significantly less oil, reducing the dish’s overall calorie and fat content. You can indulge guilt-free!
Quick and Convenient: Air frying is lightning-fast so you can enjoy this mouthwatering dish in no time. No need for lengthy preheating or extensive cleanup.
Versatile: Salt and Pepper Tofu can be served as an appetizer, a flavorful addition to salads, or a satisfying main course. Its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions and meal plans.
Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly: It’s a fantastic vegan and vegetarian option, offering a protein-packed dish that’s both tasty and satisfying.
Less Mess: With the air fryer, there’s minimal splattering, and cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without worrying about a messy kitchen.
Restaurant-Quality: This recipe allows you to replicate the restaurant-quality Salt and Pepper Tofu in the comfort of your home, impressing your family and guests.

In summary, Salt and Pepper Tofu in the air fryer delivers an unbeatable combination of flavors and textures while being healthier, quicker, and more convenient than traditional frying methods. It’s a recipe that will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire, whether you’re a tofu enthusiast or simply looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu

Unlock the secret to creating the perfect Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu by mastering the art of seasoning and simplicity. With just a handful of essential ingredients, you’ll embark on a culinary journey that combines the creamy richness of tofu with the bold flavors of salt, pepper, and aromatic spices. Let’s dive into the components that make this dish a delightful masterpiece of taste and texture.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Extra-Firm Tofu: Extra-firm tofu serves as the dish’s star, providing a creamy and protein-rich base that crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.
Cornstarch: Cornstarch coats the tofu cubes, creating a thin and crispy crust when air-fried. It adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
Kosher Salt or Sea Salt: Salt enhances the tofu’s natural flavors and adds a savory depth to the dish, balancing the heat from the pepper.
Black Pepper: Black pepper provides a mild, pleasant heat and contributes to the “salt and pepper” flavor profile.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle, savory garlic flavor that complements the other seasonings without overpowering the dish.
Onion Powder: Onion powder imparts a gentle oniony aroma and flavor, enhancing the overall seasoning blend.
Ground White Pepper: Ground white pepper offers a milder floral heat than black pepper, contributing to the dish’s well-balanced spiciness.
Sesame Oil: A small amount of sesame oil provides a delightful nutty aroma and flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the tofu.
Soy Sauce (or Tamari for gluten-free): Soy sauce adds a savory umami element and a touch of saltiness to the dish, enhancing its depth of flavor.
Chili Flakes (Optional): Chili flakes can be added for those who prefer a spicier kick. They provide extra heat and a hint of smokiness.
Fresh Green Onions: Fresh green onions, or spring onions, sliced thinly, serve as a garnish, adding a new, crisp, and mildly oniony flavor to the finished dish.
Toasted Sesame Seeds (Optional): Toasted sesame seeds can be sprinkled on top of the tofu for added texture and a nutty aroma.
Cooking Spray (Optional): Cooking spray can be used sparingly to prevent the tofu cubes from sticking to the air fryer basket and to promote even crisping.

These ingredients combine to create Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu, a dish that boasts a harmonious blend of flavors and an irresistible crispy texture.

How to Make Salt and Pepper Tofu In Air Fryer

Making Salt and Pepper Tofu recipe in the air fryer is a straightforward process that results in a crispy and flavorful dish. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Prepare the Tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Place the tofu block between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and set a heavy object (like a cast-iron skillet or cans) on top. Let it press for at least 15-30 minutes. You can also use a tofu press to remove excess water quickly.

Cut the Tofu: Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or rectangles. Aim for uniform-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Season the Tofu: Combine the cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground white pepper in a bowl. Mix well.

Add the sesame oil and soy sauce to the dry mixture, creating a thick paste. Add chili flakes to the seasoning mix if you prefer a spicier dish. Gently coat each tofu piece with the seasoned paste, ensuring an even coating.

Air Fry the Tofu:

Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness. Place the seasoned tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the air fryer tray. You may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.

If desired, lightly spray the tofu with cooking spray to promote even browning and prevent sticking. Set cook time for 12-15 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket every 5 minutes for even cooking.

Check for doneness: The tofu should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.

Serving: Once done, transfer the crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and texture. Serve your Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu hot and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.

This recipe yields a dish that’s delicious but also vegan-friendly and perfect for those seeking a healthier, crispy tofu option.

Pro Tips

To achieve the best results when making Salt and Pepper Tofu in the air fryer, consider these pro tips:

Use Extra-Firm Tofu: Extra-firm tofu is the best choice for this recipe. It holds its shape well and crisps up beautifully in the air fryer. Be sure to press it to remove excess moisture before cooking.
Even Cubes: Cut the tofu into even-sized cubes or rectangles. Uniform pieces ensure consistent cooking and look more appealing on the plate.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer to the specified temperature is essential. This step ensures that the tofu starts cooking immediately, resulting in a crispy exterior.
Coat Thoroughly: When coating the tofu with the seasoning mixture, ensure each piece is evenly and generously coated. This helps create a flavorful crust.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: To achieve the desired crispiness, arrange the tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the tray. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
Shake or Flip: During the air frying, shake the basket or flip the tofu pieces every 5 minutes. This promotes even cooking and browning on all sides.
Cooking Time Adjustments: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size and brand of your air fryer. Keep a close eye on the tofu, and adjust the cooking time by a few minutes if needed.
Spritz with Cooking Spray: Lightly spraying the tofu with cooking spray before air frying can help achieve a beautiful golden brown exterior.
Garnish Creatively: Garnish your Salt and Pepper Tofu with fresh green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or even a drizzle of sriracha sauce for added flavor and presentation.
Serve Immediately: Air-fried tofu is at its best when served immediately. Enjoy it while it’s hot and crispy for the ultimate taste and texture experience.

By following these pro tips, you’ll master the art of making Salt and Pepper Tofu in the air fryer, ensuring that your dish is crispy, flavorful, and a true culinary delight.

Faq’s

Can I use a different type of tofu for this recipe? While extra firm tofu is recommended for its ability to hold its shape and crisp up nicely, you can use firm tofu if that’s what you have. However, avoid using silken tofu, which has a higher water content and won’t yield the same crispy texture. Soft tofu will fall apart during air frying.

Can I marinate the tofu before air frying? While this recipe doesn’t involve marinating the tofu, you can marinate it for added flavor. Consider a marinade with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings. Pat the tofu dry before coating it in the seasoning mixture to maintain crispiness.

What dipping sauce pairs well with Salt and Pepper Tofu? Salt and Pepper Tofu is delicious, but you can serve it with various dipping sauces. Some popular options include sweet chili sauce, maple syrup, soy sauce with a splash of vinegar, hoisin sauce, or a creamy vegan sriracha mayo.

Can I store leftovers? Yes, you can store leftover Salt and Pepper Tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it in the air fryer or oven to maintain its crispiness.

Can I freeze Salt and Pepper Tofu? It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as tofu can change in texture after freezing and thawing, potentially becoming mushy. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using Tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Ensure that all the other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.

How can I adjust the spice level? Add more or less black pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mixture to adjust the spice level. Taste and adjust according to your preferences.

What’s the difference between ground white pepper and black pepper? Ground white pepper has a milder, less pungent flavor than black pepper. It adds a subtle heat and a slightly floral note to the dish. You can use one or the other, or a combination of both, based on your taste preference.

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