Air Fryer General Tso Tofu
Ready in about 32 minutes.
Updated 7 September 2026
A plant-based take on the takeaway classic: crisp tofu bathed in a sweet, tangy and gently spicy General Tso sauce. Air frying the cornflour-dusted cubes gives that fried-tofu crunch with only a spritz of oil.
Ingredients
- 1 block (400g) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tbsp cornflour
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp tomato ketchup
- 2 dried red chillies
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 spring onions, sliced
Method
- 1Toss the tofu cubes in cornflour until lightly and evenly coated.
- 2Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F).
- 3Air fry for 15-18 minutes, tossing halfway, until crisp and deep golden.
- 4Simmer soy, maple, vinegar, ketchup, chillies and garlic until syrupy.
- 5Add the crisp tofu and toss to coat in the glossy sauce.
- 6Top with spring onions and serve with steamed rice.
Tips for the best results
- Break the dried chillies for more heat, or leave whole for mild warmth.
- Keep the sauce thick so it clings instead of sliding off.
- Serve immediately to keep the coating crunchy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer general tso tofu?+
Cook at 200°C / 400°F for 15-18 min, toss halfway.
How do I make it less spicy?+
Use just one deseeded chilli or swap for a pinch of paprika for colour without the burn.