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Crispy Garlic Herb Air Fryer Tofu Recipe

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4.6 from 61 reviews

This Crispy Garlic Herb Air Fryer Tofu recipe delivers perfectly golden and crunchy tofu cubes infused with a flavorful garlic herb marinade. Using an air fryer ensures a healthy, oil-light cooking method that crisps the tofu on the outside while keeping it tender inside. Ideal as a snack, salad topper, or addition to your favorite dishes, this simple recipe combines savory herbs, garlic, and smoked paprika for a deliciously satisfying plant-based protein.

Ingredients

Tofu

  • 14 oz (400g) firm tofu

Marinade

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Press the Tofu: Wrap the block of firm tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy skillet or similar weight on top for about 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. This step helps the tofu absorb the marinade better and crisp up when cooked.
  2. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, dried oregano, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is well combined and flavorful.
  3. Cube the Tofu: After pressing, cut the tofu into approximately 1-inch bite-sized cubes. This size is perfect for even cooking and a crispy texture.
  4. Marinate the Tofu: Gently toss the tofu cubes in the prepared marinade ensuring all pieces are well coated. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature; for deeper flavor, marinate 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
  5. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  6. Air Fry the Tofu: Arrange the marinated tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking or tossing the basket halfway through to promote even browning. The tofu should emerge golden, crispy on the outside, and tender within.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Carefully transfer the crispy tofu to a serving dish. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately as a tasty snack, tossed into salads, or incorporated into other dishes like stir-fries.

Notes

  • Pressing tofu is crucial to achieve a crispy texture; don’t skip this step.
  • For a gluten-free version, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
  • If you prefer spicier tofu, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade.
  • Make sure to air fry in a single layer to get the best crispiness; work in batches if needed.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer for crispiness.

Find it online: https://mealoria.com/crispy-garlic-herb-air-fryer-tofu-recipe/