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Crispy Air Fryer Tofu with Sticky Teriyaki Glaze

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A quick and easy recipe for crispy air fryer tofu coated in a homemade sticky teriyaki glaze, perfect as a protein-packed snack or main dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 ounces extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • ½ teaspoon sriracha or chili flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (cornstarch slurry)

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu by placing it between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and pressing gently for 15-20 minutes to remove excess water.
  2. Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the tofu cubes with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until fully coated.
  4. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive or avocado oil over the tofu and toss gently to coat.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
  6. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
  7. Air fry the tofu for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping, until golden and crunchy on the edges.
  8. While the tofu cooks, whisk together soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sriracha or chili flakes (if using) in a small saucepan.
  9. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it bubbles gently, about 3-4 minutes.
  10. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute until the glaze thickens to a sticky, syrupy consistency. Remove from heat.
  11. Transfer the crispy tofu to a bowl and pour the sticky teriyaki glaze over it. Toss gently to coat every piece evenly.
  12. Serve immediately atop steamed rice, noodles, or fresh greens, garnished with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.
  13. Optional: If tofu loses crispness after glazing, return to the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2 minutes to set glaze and re-crisp edges.

Notes

Press tofu well to remove excess moisture for crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for even cooking. Use cornstarch for a lighter, crispier crust instead of flour. Toss tofu in glaze while hot for better sauce adhesion. Reheat leftovers in air fryer to regain crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy tofu, air fryer tofu, teriyaki glaze, plant-based, vegan, gluten-free, quick dinner, healthy snack

Find it online: https://breezybake.com/crispy-air-fryer-tofu-recipe-easy-homemade-teriyaki-glaze-guide/