Crispy Tofu (Pan-Fried, Baked & Air Fryer!)

Name: Crispy Tofu (Pan-Fried, Baked & Air Fryer!)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 block(s) (14–16 oz) extra-firm or firm tofu (cut into small cubes); 1 tablespoon(s) soy sauce; 1 tablespoon(s) light oil ((such as canola or vegetable)); ½ teaspoon(s) garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon(s) black pepper; 2 tablespoon(s) cornstarch

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Crispy Tofu (Pan-Fried, Baked & Air Fryer!)

Learn how to make perfectly crispy tofu every time with this easy method! Whether you pan-fry, bake, or use an air fryer, this tofu turns out golden, flavorful, and delicious. Perfect for bowls, salads, wraps, and more.

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Prep Time10

Cook Time15

Total Time25

Meal Type: Appetizer, Baking, Basics, Dinner, Lunch, Main Course, Sides, Snacks

Keyword: air-fryer, baked, tofu

Special: 10 Ingredients or Less, 30 Minutes or Less, Gluten-Free, Kid-Friendly, Nut-Free, Oil-Free, Seasonal (Cold Weather), Seasonal (Hot Weather)

Tool: Air Fryer, Oven, Stove

Ingredient: Tofu

Showcase: What's Trending

Servings: 4

Ingredients

1 block(s) (14–16 oz) extra-firm or firm tofu cut into small cubes
1 tablespoon(s) soy sauce
1 tablespoon(s) light oil (such as canola or vegetable)
½ teaspoon(s) garlic powder
¼ teaspoon(s) black pepper
2 tablespoon(s) cornstarch

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Instructions

Prep the tofu: If your tofu is very wet, gently press it with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. Cut into bite-sized cubes.
Season: Add the tofu to a bowl and toss with the soy sauce, oil, garlic powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu and toss until evenly coated.
Choose your cooking method:
Pan-Fried: Heat 1–2 tablespoons neutral oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add tofu in a single layer (don’t overcrowd). Cook for 8–12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides.
Baked: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease the basket if needed. Add tofu in a single layer. Air fry for 10–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Notes

Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or air fryer to re-crisp.

Gluten-free option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Oil-free option: Omit the oil and bake or air fry. The tofu will still get lightly crispy.

Cornstarch substitute: Potato starch works as a great 1:1 substitute and can make the tofu even crispier. Arrowroot starch can also be used, but the coating may be slightly lighter and soften more quickly.

Nutrition

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