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Crispy Air Fryer Tofu with Spicy Chili Mayonnaise Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

This Air Fryer Tofu recipe delivers crispy, flavorful tofu with a spicy-sweet sauce, perfect for a quick and healthy meal served over steamed white rice with scallions and sesame seeds.

Ingredients

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For the Tofu

  • 1 (14-oz.) block firm tofu, cut into 1 1/2" cubes
  • 2 Tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tsp. toasted sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp. hot or smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp. onion powder
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp. kosher salt, plus more
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • Olive oil cooking spray

For the Sauce

  • 2 cloves garlic, grated
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. sriracha

To Serve

  • Steamed white rice
  • Sliced scallions
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Marinate the tofu: In a large bowl, toss the tofu cubes with soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes up to 1 hour to soak in the flavors.
  2. Coat the tofu: In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss the marinated tofu in the cornstarch mixture until fully coated, shaking off any excess to ensure an even crispiness.
  3. Air fry the tofu: Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary. Lightly spray with olive oil cooking spray. Cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
  4. Prepare the sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the grated garlic, mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Season the sauce with salt to taste.
  5. Toss tofu in sauce: Add the crispy tofu to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  6. Serve: Serve the sauced tofu over steamed white rice and garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds for added freshness and texture.

Notes

  • Press the tofu before marinating to remove excess water for a firmer texture.
  • If you prefer gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
  • Adjust sriracha quantity based on your preferred spice level.
  • Use an air fryer basket that allows airflow around tofu pieces for the crispiest results.
  • To make it vegan, substitute mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative.