Crispy Sesame Tofu Air Fryer

Name: Crispy Sesame Tofu Air Fryer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 block firm tofu, drained and pressed; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice or quinoa; Steamed vegetables; Chopped green onions; Extra sesame seeds

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Enjoy the delightful crunch of perfectly air-fried sesame tofu, a delicious plant-based dish that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-24T05:43:28.637Z

This Crispy Sesame Tofu is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. The air fryer gives the tofu a perfect crunch without the extra oil, making it a healthier option. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or over a bed of rice for a complete meal!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture that satisfies every bite
Savory sesame flavor that elevates the tofu
Quick and easy preparation in the air fryer

      

The Health Benefits of Tofu

Tofu is a powerhouse of nutrition, making it an excellent choice for a plant-based diet. Rich in protein, it provides all nine essential amino acids, which are crucial for muscle repair and growth. Additionally, tofu contains iron, calcium, and magnesium, minerals that support bone health and overall vitality.

Incorporating tofu into your meals can also help lower cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that the isoflavones found in soy products like tofu can positively influence heart health by reducing LDL cholesterol and improving blood flow. This makes crispy sesame tofu not only a delicious choice but a heart-healthy one as well.

Air Fryer Advantages

Using an air fryer for this sesame tofu recipe is a game-changer. Air fryers cook food by circulating hot air, which results in a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. This method significantly reduces the calorie content, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dishes guilt-free.

Moreover, air fryers are incredibly versatile and easy to use. They preheat quickly and can cook a variety of foods in a fraction of the time it takes to bake or fry. Whether you’re preparing appetizers, main dishes, or even desserts, the air fryer simplifies the cooking process while enhancing flavors and textures.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the best things about this crispy sesame tofu recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the flavors to suit your palate. For a spicy kick, consider adding sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade. Alternatively, you can experiment with different oils, such as peanut or olive oil, to create unique flavor profiles.

Additionally, feel free to change up the serving suggestions. While this recipe pairs beautifully with rice or quinoa, you can also serve it over a bed of greens for a fresh salad or wrap it in lettuce leaves for a fun and interactive meal. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

For the Tofu

1 block firm tofu, drained and pressed
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Cooked rice or quinoa
Steamed vegetables
Chopped green onions
Extra sesame seeds

Combine all ingredients and prepare for the air fryer!

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu

Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes. In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Toss the tofu cubes in the mixture until well coated.

Coat with Cornstarch and Sesame Seeds

Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu cubes and toss to ensure an even coating. Then, sprinkle sesame seeds and give them another toss to coat.

Air Fry the Tofu

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Serve

Remove the tofu from the air fryer and serve it over rice or quinoa with steamed vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions and extra sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover crispy sesame tofu, storing it properly is key to maintaining its delicious texture. Allow the tofu to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the tofu may lose some of its crispiness when reheated.

To revive the crunch, simply reheat the tofu in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. This quick reheating method will help restore its delightful texture, making it a perfect addition to your meals throughout the week.

Pairing Suggestions

When serving crispy sesame tofu, consider pairing it with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. Steamed vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas not only add vibrant colors but also provide essential nutrients that complement the tofu's flavor profile.

For a refreshing touch, you could serve a side salad dressed with a light sesame vinaigrette. This adds a crunchy, zesty element to your meal, balancing the savory flavors of the tofu beautifully. Don't forget to sprinkle additional sesame seeds or chopped nuts for extra texture!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use soft tofu for this recipe?

It is recommended to use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best texture and crispiness.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute.

→ What can I serve with this tofu?

It pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also add it to stir-fried dishes.