Perfectly Seasoned Air-Fried Tofu
This way of cooking is what I call Perfect Air Fried Tofu, and it is my absolute favorite! No oil needed and they come out every time with the best texture! The seasoning blend is perfect for almost any recipe as it gives the tofu a down home classic savory flavor feel. I use this seasoning in my recipe Chef Paul’s Magic Salmon Seasoning
It gives the best flavor. If you don’t have that on hand, you can use seasoned salt, but that would add a considerable amount more sodium.
This Perfect Air-Fried Tofu is easy to make and you don’t need tons of time to press your tofu. I love serving it on top of salads like my Vegan Caesar Salad With Homemade Croutons This recipe is a definite go to! Once you make it, let me know how it turned out for you!
My Tofu Story
Are you, or were you someone like me? When I first heard about tofu, I was probably in college eating the typical standard American diet. It was described to me as fermented soybeans and I wanted nothing to do with that. I tried it once and thought it to be mushy and tasteless, and from then on, blew it off as one of those strange health foods that people eat and I don’t understand why.
Well my friends, let me tell you that I have made a complete 180! I am going to be so bold as to say that Tofu would be on my list of top 10 favorite foods now. Let me tell you why! Read on, then give it a try!
What Is Tofu Exactly?
Tofu is made from soybeans that are ground up and put into water. When the water is heated enough a sort of curd begins to form over the top. This curd is gathered and pressed into what we know as a “block of tofu”.
You can buy tofu in many forms, but here are some of the most popular:
- Silken Tofu: Silken tofu is a soft, smooth block of tofu that does not hold up on its, own. I have used it in desserts, frostings, sauces, and dips. It adds a creamy thickness and all of the health benefits!
- Firm Tofu: Firm tofu can hold up on its own. It tends to crumble however, so it is best used in stir fries, as “scrambled eggs”, or as a meat replacement, (think taco meat, or egg salad sandwich, so good!)
- Extra Firm Tofu: This is my favorite! Extra firm tofu is a pretty solid block that can be cut into bite sized blocks, or bigger slices. It is so good when baked or air fried. I use it in salads, wraps, soups, or curries. I just love the taste and texture it gives to dishes.
Why Tofu?
Well, first off, when you can get a whopping 10 grams of protein is just a 3.5 oz serving…why not? But tofu is SO much more than a good source of protein. For starters, it’s a rich source of powerful anticancer plant compounds called isoflavones and phenolic acids. I is also a great source of Omega-3s, calcium and iron.
Tofu is associated with lower blood pressure and it’s thought that replacing meat with tofu may reduce blood cholesterol, decreasing the risk of heart disease. It may even reduce menopausal symptoms. Yeah!
Tofu is the staple food in places like Okinawa Japan, one of the world’s “Blue Zones” where people are found to live unusually long, healthy lives. I could go on and on, but I think you are getting the picture. When you have just one food that is so packed with good for you things, and you pair it with other foods that are packed with different good for you things, you are getting superior nutrition to fuel your body. Thus, your body will start working for you, not against you. Get it?
Tips For Preparing Tofu
When you are making a tofu recipe using firm or extra firm tofu, you will likely be instructed to “press” your tofu. This is to gently remove all of the water inside the block to ensure it cooks up properly. One of the best ways to do this is to wrap the tofu between some towels and lay some heavy books over the top. Do this for about 1/2 hour. This will allow it to drain to give you the best texture for baking or air frying.
I have pressed tofu quickly with my hands between some paper towels when I’m in a rush and it has worked out well for me. There is no need to use oil when baking or frying tofu as it is already wet and spices stick to it so nicely.
If I’m making tofu in soups or stir frys, I like to put it in a marinade of soy sauce, maple syrup, and garlic. This seeps into the little crevices and gives it the perfect flavor. My favorite way to cook it however, is found below.
So don’t wait to try this Perfect Air-Fried Tofu recipe ASAP! Let me know if it changes your mind about tofu. You won’t be disappointed.
Perfect Air-Fried Tofu
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 2 14 oz package extra firm organic tofu
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 teaspoon Magic Salmon Seasoning
Instructions
- Press your tofu and cut into bite sized blocks.
- Preheat air fryer at 400° for 3 minutes.
- Place into a large bowl and sprinkle with seasonings.
- Gently toss seasonings with tofu blocks using hands until all tofu pieces are evenly coated with seasonings.
- Lightly spray the bottom of your air fryer with olive oil and place tofu pieces inside.
- Air fry for 15 minutes, stopping halfway to shake.
- Serve on top of salads or with your favorite rice or noodle dishes.
Notes
Nutrition
