Using an air fryer makes this savory tofu crispy in record time, but if you don't have one, see the notes for baking in an oven or toaster oven. Also, the longer you marinate, the tastier the tofu will be, so start it soaking early for the best flavor.
Recipe by Susan Voisin on March 19, 2018
Prep time: PT10M
Cook time: PT10M
Total time: PT20M
Rating
5 stars (11 reviews)
Keywords
air fried tofu
Ingredients
8 ounces extra-firm tofu
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (gluten-free, if necessary)
1 tablespoon aquafaba or broth ((see notes))
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
1/4 teaspoon granulated onion
black pepper (to taste)
Categories
Main Course
Sandwich
Cuisine
Air-Fryer
Gluten-free
Italian
Vegan
Steps
Drain the tofu and cut it into three slices lengthwise. Put down a double layer of tea towels or paper towels, place the tofu slices on top, and cover with more towels. Place your hands over the tofu slices and press down, gently increasing pressure, to press enough water out that the towels are noticeably wet. (You can also use a tofu press for this, of course.)
Return the tofu to the cutting board and cut each piece into about 10 cubes (one cut down the length and then 5 across works well.) Place the tofu in a large ziplock bag or bowl.
Mix the remaining ingredients well. Pour over the tofu and gently turn the bag or stir the tofu until all sides are coated. Let it marinate at least 10 minutes--the longer you marinate it, the more flavorful it will be.
Preheat your air fryer at 390-400F for about 3 minutes. Place the tofu in a single layer in the basket (leaving any marinade behind) and immediately reduce the temperature to around 350F. Air fry for 6 minutes. Use a thin, flexible spatula to loosen the tofu and turn it. Return it to the air fryer and begin checking at 4 minutes to see if it is golden overall and slightly darker at the edges but not overcooked or it will be tough.
Use any way you like--my preference is in wraps with plenty of veggies and balsamic vinaigrette--but it's also good in pasta.
Nutitrion
Serving Size: 4 ounces
Calories: 87 kcal
Carbohydrates: 3.4 g
Protein: 10 g
Fat: 4.4 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Sodium: 452 mg
Reviews
samantha on 2022-09-21 (5 stars): These Italian Style Air Fried Tofu seems delicious , can't wait to try this . Thank you for sharing with us.
Deborah Bills on 2018-11-19 (5 stars): When I'm making tofu, mushrooms, burgers and the like in my basket air fryer, I add 4 ice cubes to the basket when I loosen the food (halfway through cooking). It makes a big difference in the final product. Your tofu looks delicious. I can't wait to try it!
Beth Burnett on 2018-09-02 (5 stars): My first time ever trying tofu thanks to this recipe. It was delicious, but mine did not come out crispy and gorgeous like yours, despite cooking it longer. Wonder if I should have done two smaller batches as mine were kind of crammed into my small fryer. It was good enough that I will try again, though. Thank you!
Lynn on 2018-08-19 (5 stars): Mmmm What a quick, easy recipe! Even though my air fryer is just a small one so I had to cook it in two batches, it turned out beautifully and tastes delicious! This one is a keeper! Thank you!
RCamacho on 2018-07-14 (5 stars): This looks good. Thanks for the awesome recipe. Can't wait to try it out and have a bite at it. :)
Ana Vegan on 2018-04-25 (5 stars): Can’t wait to try this out for my husband. He must love it much. Thanks.
Kim on 2018-04-16 (5 stars): Made this tonight and loved it! My husband the reluctant tofu eater also said, "wow! This is really great! I didn't think I would like the tofu, but I do!" We had it with polenta and braised root veggies.
