Air Fryer Popcorn Tofu

Ingredients

• 500 g firm tofu (Drain and press or pat dry; cut lengthwise or into smaller bite-sized cubes.)
• 0.333 cup plain flour (For the batter.)
• 3 tbsp corn flour (Cornstarch; for the batter.)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (For the batter.)
• 0.5 cup water (For the batter.)
• 1 tsp salt (For the batter.)
• 0.75 cup breadcrumbs (For coating the tofu.)
• 2 tbsp oil (Mix into the breadcrumbs.)
• 1 tsp salt (For the breadcrumb mixture, or to taste.)
• 0.5 tsp red chili powder or spice mix (Use according to taste.)
• 1 tbsp oil (For spraying or brushing the tofu during cooking, including halfway through if needed.)

Steps

1. 1

   Drain the firm tofu and press or pat it thoroughly dry to remove excess moisture. Cut it into smaller, bite-sized pieces.

2. 2

   In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, red chili powder or preferred spice mix, the breadcrumb salt, and 2 tablespoons of oil. Mix until the crumbs are evenly seasoned and lightly coated with oil; set aside.

3. 3

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, corn flour, soy sauce, batter salt, and water until smooth and lump-free.

4. 4

   Add the tofu pieces to the flour batter and turn them gently until every piece is evenly coated.

5. 5

   Transfer the battered tofu to the breadcrumb mixture. Roll each piece gently in the crumbs, pressing lightly so the coating adheres and completely covers the tofu.

6. 6

   Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (355°F). Arrange the coated tofu pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the tray, leaving space between them for air circulation.

7. 7

   Lightly spray or brush the tofu with some of the remaining oil.

8. 8

   Air fry for 13–14 minutes, checking halfway through. If the coating looks dry, lightly spray or brush with more oil at that point. Cook until the exterior is golden brown and crisp.

9. 9

   Serve the popcorn tofu hot with tomato ketchup, chili sauce, or your favorite chutney.

Notes

For the crispiest result, remove as much moisture as possible from the tofu before battering. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer; cook in batches if necessary. A perforated air-fryer liner may be used.

Nutrition per serving

• appetizer
• snack
• vegetarian
• protein-rich
• air-fried
• crispy
• quick
• teatime