Air Fried Sticky Tofu Bowl

Ingredients

• 1 block extra firm tofu (drained and pressed for 15 minutes)
• 1.5 tbsp oil (neutral oil for coating tofu)
• 3 tbsp cornstarch (for coating the tofu)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 0.25 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (can substitute with coconut sugar)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for sauce slurry)
• 0.25 cup water (for sauce slurry)
• 2 cup cooked rice (for serving)
• 0.5 cup cucumber (sliced for serving)
• sesame seeds (for garnish)

Steps

1. 1

   Drain the block of extra firm tofu and wrap it in paper towels. Place it on a cutting board and set a heavy object, like a large pan, on top. Let it press for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, break the pressed tofu into bite-sized pieces by hand. Add 1-2 tablespoons of oil and 3 tablespoons of cornstarch. Toss with your hands until every piece is evenly coated.

3. 3

   Place the tofu pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.

4. 4

   While the tofu is frying, prepare the sauce. In a pan over low-medium heat, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar (or coconut sugar), and sesame oil. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to simmer.

5. 5

   In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1/4 cup of water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce while stirring constantly. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens to a syrupy consistency.

6. 6

   Once the tofu is finished air frying, add it directly into the pan with the thickened sauce. Toss well to ensure every piece of tofu is thoroughly coated in the glaze.

7. 7

   Serve the sticky tofu in bowls over a bed of rice. Garnish with sliced cucumbers and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Notes

To ensure the tofu gets crispy, do not skip the pressing step. If you don't have an air fryer, you can bake the tofu at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• plant-based
• vegetarian
• vegan
• gluten-free
• air-fryer
• dinner
• healthy