Sweet Chili Tofu Cubes are crispy, flavorful bites coated in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy glaze. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or protein-packed addition to a salad or stir-fry, these cubes offer a delightful combination of crunch and zest that’s both vegan and irresistible.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
For the Sweet Chili Sauce:
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp grated ginger
Steps:
- Prepare the Tofu:
- After pressing the tofu, cut it into 1-inch cubes.
- In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Air-Fry the Tofu:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the tofu cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Spray lightly with olive oil.
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tofu is golden and crispy.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
- Heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened.
- Coat the Tofu:
- Toss the crispy tofu cubes in the sauce until fully coated.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately as a snack or appetizer. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 15 minutes
- Total: 25 minutes
Servings
- Serves 3–4 people as an appetizer.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
Key Notes:
- Pressing the tofu is crucial to remove excess moisture for maximum crispiness.
- Adjust the level of spice in the sauce by adding sriracha or red pepper flakes.
- For extra crunch, add a second coating of cornstarch before air-frying.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness.
Savor these Sweet Chili Tofu Cubes for a delightful fusion of crispy texture and bold flavor!