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Air Fryer Crispy Tofu (Sweet Chili)

Air Fryer Crispy Tofu (Sweet Chili)

This Air Fryer Crispy Tofu with Sweet Chili Sauce is perfectly golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and tossed in a sticky, sweet-spicy glaze. It’s a quick, plant-based favorite that works as an appetizer, protein bowl topper, or easy weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking spray

Sweet Chili Sauce

1/3 cup sweet chili sauce

1 teaspoon rice vinegar

1 teaspoon soy sauce

1/2 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the tofu: Pat pressed tofu dry and cut into 1-inch cubes.

Season: In a bowl, toss tofu with soy sauce and sesame oil. Sprinkle with cornstarch, garlic powder, and pepper; gently toss until coated.

Air fry: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket and add tofu in a single layer.

Cook: Air fry for 14–16 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy and golden.

Sauce: Warm sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and ginger in a small pan or microwave.

Toss & serve: Gently toss crispy tofu with sauce or drizzle on top just before serving.

 

Notes

Cooking Tips

  • Press well: The drier the tofu, the crispier the result.

  • Don’t overcrowd: Cook in batches if needed for maximum crunch.

  • Sauce last: Tossing too early can soften the coating—serve sauce on the side for extra crispiness.


Variations

  • Spicy: Add sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce.

  • Garlic Lover’s: Toss tofu with ½ teaspoon minced garlic before air frying.

  • Orange Chili: Add 1 tablespoon orange juice and zest to the sauce.

  • Low-Sugar: Use reduced-sugar sweet chili sauce or mix honey with chili paste.

  • Meal Bowl: Serve over jasmine rice with steamed broccoli and sesame seeds.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 14g
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