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Air Fryer Bang Bang Tofu That Actually Gets Crispy
why make this recipe
Air Fryer Bang Bang Tofu is a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a crispy, flavorful dish without deep frying. This recipe is not only plant-based but also quick and easy to make. The combination of spices and the bang bang sauce gives the tofu a delicious kick that everyone will love. Plus, using an air fryer means you can achieve that perfect crunch with much less oil, making this dish a healthier alternative!
how to make Air Fryer Bang Bang Tofu
Ingredients:
- 1 block of firm tofu, pressed and drained
- 1 cup of cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons of sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sriracha (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Directions:
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and toss them in soy sauce. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Toss the marinated tofu cubes in the cornstarch mixture until they are fully coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the tofu in the air fryer basket in a single layer, spray with olive oil, and cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.
- Serve the crispy tofu drizzled with the sauce and garnish with chopped green onions.
how to serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Tofu
Air Fryer Bang Bang Tofu is best served hot and fresh. You can serve it as an appetizer, a snack, or alongside a hearty salad or rice bowl. Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the tofu, and enjoy the crunchy texture and spicy flavor.
how to store Air Fryer Bang Bang Tofu
If you have leftovers, store the tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to eat it fresh. If you need to reheat it, place the tofu back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain its crispiness.
tips to make Air Fryer Bang Bang Tofu
- Make sure to press the tofu well to remove excess water before frying.
- For extra flavor, you can add more spices to the cornstarch mixture or let the tofu marinate longer in soy sauce.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or add more sriracha in the sauce.
variation
You can customize the bang bang sauce by adding different ingredients. For instance, some people enjoy adding lime juice or a touch of honey for extra sweetness. You can also use different plant-based sauces or dips if you want to change up the flavor!
FAQs
-
Can I use other types of tofu?
Yes, you can use soft tofu, but keep in mind that it won’t hold its shape as well as firm tofu. It may be a little less crispy. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free. -
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but you may need to cook the tofu in batches in the air fryer to ensure it gets crispy.
Air Fryer Bang Bang Tofu
Enjoy a crispy, flavorful plant-based dish with this Air Fryer Bang Bang Tofu recipe, featuring a deliciously spicy kick from the bang bang sauce.
Ingredients
Tofu and Marinade
- 1 block firm tofu, pressed and drained
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional)
Oil and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for spraying
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and toss them in soy sauce. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Toss the marinated tofu cubes in the cornstarch mixture until they are fully coated.
Cooking
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the tofu in the air fryer basket in a single layer, spray with olive oil, and cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Serving
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.
- Serve the crispy tofu drizzled with the sauce and garnish with chopped green onions.
Notes
Air Fryer Bang Bang Tofu is best served hot and fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, eat it fresh and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes for crispiness. You can customize the bang bang sauce with lime juice or honey for sweetness.
