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Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Bowl Easy Recipe with Creamy Peanut Sauce

crispy air fryer tofu bowl - featured image

A quick and easy crispy tofu bowl made in the air fryer, served with a rich and creamy peanut sauce and fresh veggies. Perfect for a healthy, flavorful meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz (400g) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (avocado or canola oil)
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) creamy peanut butter (natural, unsweetened recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 23 tablespoons water to thin sauce
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice (or quinoa)
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
  • Optional: sliced green onions, sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Press tofu by wrapping in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy skillet on top for 15-20 minutes. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
  2. In a large bowl, toss tofu cubes with soy sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and oil. Sprinkle cornstarch over tofu and toss to coat evenly.
  3. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking basket every 5 minutes until golden and crispy.
  4. While tofu cooks, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, lime juice, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Add water one tablespoon at a time until sauce is smooth and pourable.
  5. Cook rice or quinoa according to package instructions and fluff with a fork.
  6. Assemble bowls by spooning rice into each bowl, topping with crispy tofu, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and drizzling with peanut sauce. Garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds if desired.
  7. Serve immediately while tofu is warm and crispy.

Notes

Press tofu well to remove moisture for best crispiness. Shake air fryer basket every 5 minutes for even cooking. Adjust peanut sauce thickness with water. Store tofu separately from rice and veggies to prevent sogginess. Reheat tofu in air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to regain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: tofu bowl, air fryer tofu, peanut sauce, crispy tofu, healthy dinner, vegan, gluten-free, quick recipe, plant-based