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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)

Author: Laurie Fleming
Published: October 2, 2021

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This Chinese-style salt and pepper tofu, made in the air fryer, is crispy and golden perfection! This dish comes together in no time! This is one of the best ways to make tofu with salt and pepper, and makes for a great Chinese dish.

Close-up of crispy Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu on a serving platter.

Serve with my recipe for Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Wings, Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Fingers, or Air Fryer Chinese Spare Ribs.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

Quick and Easy Preparation: Air Fry Salt and Pepper Tofu comes together in no time, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives the air-fried crispy tofu with salt and pepper is a wonderfully crispy exterior.
Flavorful Seasoning: The combination of salt, pepper, and optional spices elevates the dish, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a snack, appetizer, or main course, and pair it with your favorite dipping sauce or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Extra-Firm Tofu: Use extra firm or super firm tofu, which will hold up better when air frying.
Cornstarch: Creates a thin and crispy crust when air-fried.
Kosher Salt or Sea Salt
Black Pepper: Or use white pepper, Sichuan peppercorn powder.
Seasonings: Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Ground White Pepper
Sesame Oil
Soy Sauce (or Tamari for gluten-free)
Chili Flakes (Optional)
Fresh Green Onions
Toasted Sesame Seeds (Optional)
Cooking Spray (Optional)

How to Make Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu

Image of diced tofu cubes seasoned with salt and pepper before cooking

Step One: 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.

Step Two: Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or rectangles.

Air fryer basket filled with golden-brown salt and pepper tofu.

Step Three: Combine the cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground white pepper in a small bowl. 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.

Step Four: Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C). Place the seasoned tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the air fryer tray. 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.

Air Fry Tofu With Salt and Pepper Recipe Tips

Use Extra-Firm Tofu: Extra-firm tofu is the best choice for this recipe.
Even Cubes: Cut the tofu into even-sized cubes or rectangles.
Coat Thoroughly: When coating the tofu with the seasoning mixture, ensure each piece is evenly and generously coated.
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.
Shake or Flip: During the air frying, shake the basket or flip the tofu pieces every 5 minutes.
Cooking Time Adjustments: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size and brand of your air fryer.
Spritz with Cooking Spray: Lightly spraying the tofu with cooking spray before air frying can help achieve a beautiful golden brown exterior.
Garnish Creatively: Use fresh green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or even a drizzle of sriracha sauce.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy it while it’s hot and crispy for the ultimate taste and texture experience.

Plated Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu garnished with green onions and served with dipping sauce.

Air fry salt and pepper tofu recipe faqs

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.

Can I marinate the tofu before air frying? While this recipe doesn’t involve marinating the tofu, you can marinate it for added flavor.

What dipping sauce pairs well with Salt and Pepper Tofu? 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 leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

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.

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.

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.

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