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Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Bites Easy Recipe with Creamy Peanut Sauce

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These crispy air fryer tofu bites are a quick, easy, and delicious snack or appetizer, paired perfectly with a creamy, tangy peanut sauce. They offer a satisfying crunch without the mess of deep-frying and are great for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz (400 g) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) creamy peanut butter (natural preferred)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
  • 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce (optional)
  • Water to thin, as needed

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu: Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for 20-30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes.
  3. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the tofu cubes gently in the marinade and let sit for at least 10 minutes, turning halfway.
  4. Sprinkle cornstarch evenly over the marinated tofu, tossing lightly to coat each piece.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Place tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t touching.
  7. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the cubes halfway through until golden and crispy.
  8. While tofu cooks, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, lime juice, toasted sesame oil, and chili flakes. Add water a teaspoon at a time until creamy and dippable.
  9. Serve tofu bites immediately with peanut sauce on the side.

Notes

Press tofu thoroughly to remove moisture for best crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Peanut sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat tofu bites in air fryer for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness. For gluten-free, use tamari; for vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey. Optional spices and nut butter substitutions can customize flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: tofu bites, air fryer tofu, crispy tofu, peanut sauce, vegan snack, gluten-free, plant-based, quick snack

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/crispy-air-fryer-tofu-bites-easy-recipe-with-creamy-peanut-sauce/