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Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Bites Recipe Easy Sweet Spicy Glaze Snack

crispy air fryer tofu bites - featured image

These crispy air fryer tofu bites feature a crunchy exterior and a sticky, sweet-spicy glaze, making them a perfect quick snack or protein-packed topping for meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 ounces extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado or canola)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (Kikkoman recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons sriracha
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional garnish)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu: Remove tofu from packaging, wrap in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, place a heavy skillet or canned goods on top, and press for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes, keeping them uniform for even cooking.
  3. In a medium bowl, toss tofu cubes with 3 tablespoons cornstarch until evenly coated with a thin dusting.
  4. Drizzle 2 tablespoons neutral oil, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger over the tofu; toss gently to combine.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  6. Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip each piece and cook for another 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  7. While tofu cooks, whisk together 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey, 1-2 teaspoons sriracha, and 1 teaspoon rice vinegar in a small bowl to make the glaze.
  8. Transfer crispy tofu to a large bowl, drizzle the glaze over, and toss gently to coat evenly.
  9. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve warm as a snack or add to bowls and wraps.

Notes

Press tofu well to remove excess moisture for best crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. Toss tofu with glaze only after air frying to keep bites crispy. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and cornstarch with almond flour or arrowroot powder. Reheat leftovers in air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: tofu bites, air fryer tofu, crispy tofu, sweet spicy glaze, vegan snack, plant-based protein, quick snack