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air fryer salt and pepper tofu
Cindy

Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu

5 from 1 vote
With an irresistible, crispy tofu crust and a soft, pillowy interior, this Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu will be your go-to vegan dish. It's savoury, crispy and tasty especially with fresh jasmine rice.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz medium firm tofu 454 g, cut into 2x2 cm cubes
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 2 cups water
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ red pepper diced
  • 1 green onion thinly sliced
  • ½ tsp garlic salt or to taste
  • 3 dashes white pepper or to taste

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Large Bowl
  • Frying pan or wok

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Tofu: Mix salt in water and stir until dissolved. Soak the cubed tofu in salted water for 10 minutes.
  2. Air Fry the Tofu: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Line the air fryer with the tofu in a single layer without over crowding. Spray oil on top of tofu. Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes. Flip. Spray oil again then air fry for another 10 minutes until golden and crispy.
  3. Stir fry: Add a little oil to your pan over medium heat, stir fry the garlic for 30 seconds. Add in red pepper and green onions and stir fry for another 30 seconds. Add in air fried tofu and season with garlic salt and a few dashes of white pepper. Mix altogether.
  4. Serve: Turn off heat and plate. Be sure to get all the little bits to the plate. Optional, garnish with freshly chopped spring onions or cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Video

Notes

  • Use a different texture of tofu if you would like. Firm or extra firm tofu gives a more robust bite.
  • Make it spicy by adding crushed red pepper flakes or jalapenos.
  • Experiment with other spices such as smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or Chinese five-spice powder to introduce different flavour profiles.
  • Add some fresh cilantro to brighten the dish.
  • If an air fryer isn't available, bake the tofu in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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