Shatteringly Crispy Air Fryer Tofu

Steps

1. 1

   Place the tofu between layers of paper towels or clean kitchen towels. Set it on a plate or tray, weigh it down with a heavy pan or other weight, and press for 15 minutes to remove excess water. Use firm or extra-firm tofu so the cubes hold their shape.

   Start 15-minute timer
2. 2

   While the tofu presses, combine the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, white pepper, and Chinese five-spice powder in a small bowl. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.

3. 3

   Slice the pressed tofu into slabs about 1 inch thick. Stack the slabs, cut the stack in half, and then cut across it to form roughly 1-inch cubes.

4. 4

   Transfer the tofu cubes to a bowl. Add half of the seasoning blend and the soy sauce. Toss gently until the tofu is evenly moistened and coated, forming a thin wet batter around the cubes.

5. 5

   In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and baking powder until evenly combined.

6. 6

   Add the cornstarch mixture to the seasoned tofu. Toss carefully until every cube is evenly coated and the surface looks dry and powdery rather than wet.

7. 7

   Lightly spray the air-fryer tray or basket with neutral oil spray. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer with space between them so hot air can circulate.

8. 8

   Spray the tops of the tofu cubes lightly with more neutral oil. Air-fry at 400°F (200 °C) (200°C (400 °F)) for 10 minutes, or until the coating begins to turn crisp and golden.

   Start 10-minute timer
9. 9

   Shake the air-fryer basket or turn the tofu cubes to expose another side. Spray the tofu lightly with oil again.

10. 10

    Return the tofu to the air fryer at 400°F (200 °C) (200°C (400 °F)) for another 4–5 minutes, until deeply crisp and golden on the outside and tender inside.

    Start 5-minute timer
11. 11

    Immediately transfer the hot tofu to a bowl and toss it with the reserved half of the seasoning blend. Serve while hot and crisp.