Description
This crispy and flavorful Teriyaki Tofu recipe uses an air fryer to achieve a perfectly golden exterior while keeping the inside tender. Coated with a seasoned potato starch mixture and brushed with savory teriyaki sauce, the tofu is garnished with toasted sesame seeds and fresh spring onions for a delightful Asian-inspired dish. Quick to prepare and ideal for a healthy, protein-rich meal.
Ingredients
Tofu
- 1 block firm tofu (255 grams)
Coating
- 4 tablespoons potato starch
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
Sauce & Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
- Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
- Fresh spring onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Drain and press tofu: Drain the tofu and lightly press it using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place it on a paper-lined plate and cover with more paper towels for at least 15 minutes to ensure it’s adequately dried for better crisping.
- Cut tofu: Slice the tofu block into four equal portions. Cut each portion into four bite-sized pieces, approximately 1 inch thick and 1 1/2 inches long, totaling 16 pieces.
- Prepare coating: On a plate, combine potato starch, sea salt, and ground black pepper. Carefully coat each tofu piece evenly with this mixture to create a crispy exterior once air fried.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 396°F (202°C) and preheat for optimal cooking.
- Arrange tofu: Gently place each coated tofu piece on the air fryer tray lined with parchment paper. If using an air fryer oven with a rotisserie catch, place the tray near it. For air fryers with baskets, place the coated tofu evenly in the basket.
- Air fry tofu: Cook the tofu for 25 minutes at 396°F, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning and crispness.
- Adjust temperature: Lower the air fryer temperature to 370°F (188°C) to prepare for saucing.
- Coat with teriyaki sauce: Brush each tofu piece liberally with teriyaki sauce to infuse flavor.
- Finish air frying: Continue air frying for another 3 to 5 minutes at 370°F, flipping once halfway to caramelize the teriyaki glaze.
- Serve: Remove the tofu from the air fryer immediately onto a serving plate. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and garnish with fresh spring onions for a flavorful and visually appealing finish.
Notes
- Pressing tofu well is essential to get crispy results in the air fryer.
- Use parchment paper designed for air fryers to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Adjust cooking time slightly depending on your specific air fryer model and tofu thickness.
- For extra flavor, marinate tofu in teriyaki sauce for 10-15 minutes before coating with potato starch.