Description
This Air Fryer Agedashi Tofu recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic Japanese dish by using an air fryer to achieve a crispy exterior without deep frying. Firm tofu is coated in a light cornstarch and flour mixture, air fried to golden perfection, and served with a savory soy-based sauce, garnished with green onions, bonito flakes, and sesame seeds for an authentic flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu
- 1 block firm tofu
Coating
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Cooking
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing)
Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
Garnishes
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Bonito flakes (for garnish, optional)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Press the tofu: Wrap the block of firm tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, which is essential for a crispy texture.
- Cut the tofu: After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized 1-inch cubes to allow even cooking and easy serving.
- Prepare the coating: In a shallow bowl, combine cornstarch, all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each tofu cube thoroughly in this mixture to ensure an even, crispy coating.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the air fryer basket with vegetable oil or spray with a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Air fry the tofu: Place the coated tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tofu is golden and crispy.
- Make the sauce: While the tofu cooks, combine soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, and sugar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat until it simmers and slightly thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the dish: Transfer the crispy tofu to a serving plate, pour the warm sauce over the top, and garnish with chopped green onions, bonito flakes, and sesame seeds as desired.
- Serve: Serve the Air Fryer Agedashi Tofu immediately for the best texture and flavor. Enjoy this crispy, savory Japanese-inspired dish!
Notes
- Pressing the tofu is crucial to remove moisture for crispiness.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with any neutral oil suitable for air frying.
- Bonito flakes are optional but add an authentic umami flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure soy sauce is gluten-free and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- This dish is best served immediately as tofu tends to lose crispiness over time.
