Tofu in the Air Fryer
Ready in about 29 minutes.
Published by the RecipeAirFryer editorial team · How we source times · Updated
Times and temperatures come from our reviewed cooking database. Explanatory text on each page is generated from that entry so the numbers stay consistent.
Cook pressed tofu cubes in an air fryer at 200°C / 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway, until the edges are crisp.
Written for 4. Cook in batches rather than stacking if you scale up.
Ingredients
- 400 g firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp cornflour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Method
- 1Press the tofu for 15 minutes, then cut into cubes.
- 2Toss with the soy sauce and oil, then coat with the cornflour, garlic powder and paprika.
- 3Preheat the air fryer to 200°C / 400°F.
- 4Spread the tofu in a single layer.
- 5Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway, until crisp and golden.
- 6Toss in your favourite sauce or add to bowls and stir-fries.
Tips for the best results
- Crispy golden tofu cubes with a chewy centre - no deep-frying needed. A little cornflour gives them the perfect crunch.
- Press the tofu well - less water means more crunch.
- The cornflour coating is key to crispy edges.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Crowding the basket so air fryer tofu steams instead of browning.
- Skipping the shake halfway, which leaves one side pale.
- Letting wet coating pieces touch, which peels the crust and keeps it soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long to cook tofu in an air fryer?
Pressed, cornflour-coated cubes take 12-15 minutes at 200°C / 400°F. Shake halfway. Wet tofu steams instead of crisping, so press it first.
What temperature and time for air fryer tofu?
A typical starting point is 200°C / 400°F for 12-15 min, shake halfway. Thickness and wattage change the finish, so check early.
Can I make air fryer tofu ahead?
Cook it, cool it quickly, and refrigerate. Reheat in the air fryer at a slightly lower temperature so the outside does not dry before the middle is hot.
How many people does air fryer tofu serve?
This recipe is written for 4. For a fuller basket, cook in batches rather than stacking, or add a couple of minutes and shake more often.