Crispy Tofu Bites are a satisfying, plant-based snack or appetizer with a golden, crunchy coating and a soft, savory interior. They’re easy to prepare in the air fryer and can be paired with a variety of dips or sauces, making them a perfect addition to your quick snack lineup or as a side dish.
Recipe
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) of firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess water. Cut into 1-inch cubes and place in a bowl.
- Marinate: Toss the tofu with soy sauce and sesame oil until coated. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Coating: In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch, breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bread the Tofu: Roll each tofu cube in the breadcrumb mixture until well-coated.
- Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Cook: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crispiness. Cook until golden and crunchy.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili, ranch, or soy-based sauce.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 390mg
Key Notes:
- Pressing Tofu: Removing water from tofu is crucial for a crisp texture.
- Customization: Add cayenne pepper for extra spice or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Sauce Pairings: Serve with a variety of sauces to elevate the flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Enjoy these crispy, protein-packed bites anytime!