Although some individuals like deep-fried tofu, air frying it is a healthier and less expensive option. Try this crispy version, and as usual, you may leave off the sauce if you prefer vanilla!
Contents
- 5 Tips for Perfect Air Fried Tofu
- FAQs
- Why is my fried tofu not crispy?
- How do you keep tofu crispy in sauce?
- Do you have to press tofu before air frying?
- What is the secret to crunchy tofu?
- What is the best way to get crispy tofu?
- Should you coat tofu in cornstarch before frying?
- Do you use cornstarch or flour for fried tofu?
- Should you salt tofu before frying?
- What can I use instead of cornstarch to crisp tofu?
5 Tips for Perfect Air Fried Tofu
- Tofu that is extra-firm stands up nicely to frying. Also, if you use soft tofu instead, it will not be as crispy.
- Tofu should be pressed before frying to eliminate excess moisture, which improves taste and texture and makes it crisper when fried.
- To avoid overcrowding the air fryer, place the tofu cubes in a single layer. If necessary, fry them in batches.
- Allow the tofu to marinade overnight for a more rich taste.
- Serve air fryer tofu in peanut sauce with salads, fried rice, steamed broccoli, or simply with green onions.
FAQs
Why is my fried tofu not crispy?
Use the proper breading.
The coating will just get soggy, resulting in fried mush. Tofu has a porous surface that loses water before the coating crisps, so cover it with cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Shake off the excess before frying in oil for a crispy surface and soft within.
How do you keep tofu crispy in sauce?
Tofu crisps up rapidly if it is fully dried. Using a batter for the tofu keeps it crispy even after being tossed in sauce. Cooking each component of the stir fry separately and then mixing them at the end allows for more consistent cooking and browning.
Do you have to press tofu before air frying?
Is a Tofu Press Necessary? If you want the crispiest, crunchiest air fryer tofu imaginable, press your tofu before cooking it. This step adds some time to the preparation, but it is well worth it. Pressing the excess water out of the tofu makes it extra-firm and crisp when cooking.
What is the secret to crunchy tofu?
To finish, mix your tofu in a little oil (1 tablespoon for the whole batch), tamari or soy sauce (for taste), and cornstarch or arrowroot starch. The starch crisps up the edges, making them appealing (I got this concept from The Kitchn).
What is the best way to get crispy tofu?
In a large nonstick frying pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Fry the tofu for 2-4 minutes on each side, or until golden, crispy, and browned. Smaller cubes require 2 minutes each side, whereas bigger triangles take 4 minutes. Cook in batches as necessary, adding a bit extra oil as needed.
Should you coat tofu in cornstarch before frying?
There are two things you must do to ensure that your tofu is absolutely crispy… Cover it with cornstarch! This is an important step in creating a crispy outer layer on your tofu. To flavor the cornstarch, you may add any spices or seasonings.
Do you use cornstarch or flour for fried tofu?
Ingredients for Fried Tofu
Soy sauce: I used liquid aminos, but gluten-free tamari would also work. Cornstarch is an essential component in making crispy fried tofu. Cornstarch is nearly all starch, which is required for the crispy and browned tofu in this fried tofu dish.
Should you salt tofu before frying?
What is the secret? Tofu planks should be soaked in a hot salt brine for 10 to 15 minutes before pan-frying.
What can I use instead of cornstarch to crisp tofu?
Substitutions: If you don’t want to use cornstarch, you may use an equivalent amount of all-purpose flour or potato starch instead. Tofu: This dish may also be done using medium-firm tofu, but you’ll need to press and coat it more gently.
