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Air Fryer Crispy Tofu With Sriracha Mayo - Fast, Crunchy, and Flavor-Packed

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the crispy tofu: 14 oz (400 g) extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • 1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (avocado, canola, or grapeseed)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or arrowroot)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of salt, to taste
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon sesame oil for added aroma
  • For the sriracha mayo: ½ cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
  • 1–2 tablespoons sriracha, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice or rice vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, balances heat)
  • Pinch of salt
  • For serving (optional): Sliced green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Lime wedges

Method
 

  1. Press the tofu: Wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Place a small cutting board and a heavy pan on top. Let it press for 15–20 minutes to remove excess moisture. This step is key for extra crispiness.
  2. Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 390°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. A hot basket helps the tofu crisp faster.
  3. Cut the tofu: Slice into ¾-inch cubes or rectangles. Keep sizes uniform so they cook evenly.
  4. Season the tofu: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, neutral oil, and sesame oil (if using). Add the tofu and gently toss to coat.
  5. Coat for crispiness: In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle over the tofu and toss until every piece is lightly coated with no dry patches.
  6. Air fry: Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Arrange tofu in a single layer with space between pieces. Cook for 10–14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Tofu is done when golden brown and crisp on the edges.
  7. Make the sriracha mayo: In a small bowl, whisk mayo, sriracha, lime juice, and sweetener (if using). Adjust heat and acidity to taste, then add a pinch of salt.
  8. Serve: Transfer tofu to a plate, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve with sriracha mayo and lime wedges.