I am excited to share my version of Oil Free Crispy Tofu. I blend pressed extra firm tofu with gluten-free tamari, cornstarch and garlic powder to create a high protein vegan dish in under 30 minutes. This simple recipe delivers satisfying crunch and flavor without any oil for busy days.

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I always love finding a way to make tofu exciting and this recipe totally did the trick for me. I mean, who thought you could get super crispy, oil free tofu with just a few simple ingredients?

I used 14 oz extra firm tofu that’s been pressed and drained, then tossed it in 2 tbsp gluten-free tamari, 1 tbsp cornstarch and a dash of 1/2 tsp garlic powder. In less than 30 minutes, I had this crunchy treat that’s perfect for a high protein vegan meal.

Its crispiness kinda surprises you and makes it a fun twist on classic air fried tofu recipes. One minute you’re prepping your tofu, the next its perfectly air fried without a drop of oil.

I totally recommend trying this quick fix for a tasty oil free meal, whether you are new to tofu or a longtime fan. Enjoy experimenting and pair it with your favorite dipping sauce!

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I really love how fast this recipe comes together, like it takes less than 30 minutes to make, which is awesome when I’m in a rush.
2. I enjoy that there are only a few simple ingredients, so I dont have to worry about hunting down hard-to-find stuff.
3. I appreciate the crispy texture of the tofu from the air fryer, its so satisfying even without any oil.
4. I also dig that its gluten-free and oil-free, so I can feel good about eating it and even have a second helping.

Ingredients

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Extra firm tofu is protein-rich and supplies healthy fiber for a balanced dish.
Gluten-free tamari adds a savory, salty umami boost to the overall flavor.
Cornstarch acts as a binding agent that gives the tofu a tasty, crunchy crust.
Garlic powder provides a mild, aromatic kick, enhancing the dish’s savory profile.

Ingredient Quantities

14 oz extra firm tofu, pressed and drained

2 tbsp gluten-free tamari

1 tbsp cornstarch

1/2 tsp garlic powder

How to Make this

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1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F while you get everything ready.

2. Press and drain the tofu, then cut it into roughly 1-inch cubes.

3. In a bowl, combine the gluten-free tamari and garlic powder.

4. Gently toss the tofu cubes in the tamari mix so they’re evenly coated.

5. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu and stir until every piece is covered.

6. Place the tofu in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not overlapped.

7. Air fry the tofu for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

8. Check if the tofu is crispy enough, and if not, cook for another 2-3 minutes.

9. Remove the tofu from the air fryer and let it cool slightly.

10. Serve the crispy tofu with your favorite sauce or as is for a delicious high-protein vegan meal.

Equipment Needed

1. Air fryer with its basket
2. Cutting board
3. Sharp knife
4. Mixing bowl
5. Measuring spoons
6. Tofu press or paper towels to drain the tofu
7. Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
8. Timer to keep track of cooking time
9. Plate or serving dish

This list should cover all the kitchen equipment and utensils you need to prepare this crispy tofu dish.

FAQ

Q: Can i use firm tofu instead of extra firm tofu?

A: Yeah you can, but extra firm really holds up better in the air fryer so it gets that nice crispy texture.

Q: Do i really need to press and drain the tofu?

A: Yup, pressing removes extra water which helps the tofu crisp up much better in the fryer.

Q: How long do i need to air fry the tofu?

A: Generally about 15-20 minutes works fine, just give it a shake or turn halfway through so it cooks evenly.

Q: Can i marinate the tofu longer for more flavor?

A: Sure, marinating for up to 30 minutes is a good idea. Just dont leave it too long or it might start to fall apart.

Q: What if i dont have gluten-free tamari or cornstarch?

A: If you dont have tamari, you can use a little soy sauce (though its not gluten-free) and if you lack cornstarch, arrowroot powder works in a pinch.

Quick And Easy Crispy Air Fried Tofu Recipe Substitutions and Variations

If you’re low on extra firm tofu, you can use firm tofu, but be careful it might be less sturdy.
If you don’t have gluten-free tamari, a splash of regular soy sauce works fine, though it might add a tiny bit more saltiness.
No cornstarch? Try using arrowroot powder instead, it does a pretty similar job in crisping things up.
If you’re out of garlic powder, use a bit of dried minced garlic – just know that the flavor might be a bit more intense.

Pro Tips

1. It can help a lot if you marinate the tofu for an extra few minutes so that the flavours really get to work – longer marination may make the tofu taste better.
2. Don’t cram too many tofu cubes into the airfryer at once, because if they’re too close, they wont crisp up evenly and some pieces might turn out soggy.
3. Every oven is different, so instead of waiting the full time, check the tofu a little bit early to see if its already crispy, then adjust the cooking time as needed.
4. If you really want that extra crunch, you might try tossing the tofu in a light spray of oil right before you put it in the airfryer; it can sometimes make a big difference in texture.