Air Fried Tofu in Peanut Sauce

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Choosing air fried tofu can be a cost-effective and healthier option, despite certain individuals preferring the taste of deep-fried tofu. Consider giving this crunchy variant a shot and remember, it’s perfectly fine to forgo the sauce for a more basic, or what some might call a ‘vanilla,’ taste sensation!

5 Tips for Perfect Air Fried Tofu

  1. Try to find extra-firm tofu as it holds up well to frying. Also, if you decide to use soft tofu instead, it won’t be as crispy.
  2. Pressing tofu before frying to remove excess moisture will improve its flavor and texture and make it more crispy when frying.
  3. It is better not to overcrowd the air fryer and to arrange tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry them in batches if needed.
  4. For a more intense flavor, leave the tofu to marinate overnight.
  5. Add air fryer tofu in peanut sauce to salads, fried rice, steamed broccoli or simply sprinkle with green onions and serve.
Air Fried Tofu

Air Fryer Tofu in Peanut Sauce

Though flavor-wise some people prefer deep-fried, air frying tofu is a healthier and cheaper alternative. Try this crispy version, and, as always, you can skip the sauce to go vanilla!
Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Japanese
Servings 4
Calories 268 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu:

  • 16 oz extra-firm tofu
  • 2 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon ginger powder

For the Peanut Sauce:

  • cup peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoon water
  • 2 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions
 

  • Press the tofu: place the tofu on a plate between two paper towels and top it with a heavy pan. Leave for about 15 minutes to drain excess water.
  • Cut the tofu into 1″ cubes.
  • In a large bowl prepare the marinade by mixing together soy sauce, sesame oil and vinegar with the spices. Add the tofu and toss gently to coat. Leave to marinate for 15-20 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, prepare the sauce. In a medium-sized mixing bowl whisk peanut butter, water and lemon juice until combined. Add in soy sauce and sesame oil and stir. Set aside.
  • Set your air fryer to 375º F (190º C) for 10-15 minutes.
  • Place tofu cubes inside the air fryer basket in a single layer with space between them. Cook for 10-15 min removing the basket occasionally and tossing the tofu around to cook evenly until golden and crispy.
  • Remove the tofu from the air fryer. Pour it over with peanut sauce and serve!

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 268kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 16gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 1467mgPotassium: 377mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 40IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 51mgIron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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