Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu (Print Version)

Crispy golden tofu bites coated with a tangy sweet chili glaze, prepared quickly for a flavorful snack.

# Components:

→ Tofu Nuggets

01 - 14 oz extra-firm tofu
02 - 2 tbsp cornstarch
03 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour or rice flour for gluten-free
04 - 1 tsp garlic powder
05 - 1 tsp onion powder
06 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
07 - 1/2 tsp salt
08 - 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
09 - 2 tbsp neutral oil such as canola or avocado

→ Sweet Chili Sauce

10 - 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce store-bought or homemade
11 - 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
12 - 1 tsp rice vinegar
13 - 1 tsp sesame oil

→ Garnish

14 - 1 tbsp sesame seeds
15 - 2 tbsp chopped green onions

# Directions:

01 - Wrap the tofu in a clean towel and place a heavy object on top. Let it drain for 10 to 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
02 - Cut the tofu into bite-sized nuggets approximately 3/4 to 1 1/4 inch each.
03 - In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
04 - Toss the tofu nuggets in the dry mixture until evenly coated on all sides.
05 - Drizzle the neutral oil over the tofu pieces and toss again to ensure complete coverage.
06 - Arrange the tofu nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
07 - Air fry at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking until the tofu is golden and crispy.
08 - While the tofu cooks, mix the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
09 - Once the tofu is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the sauce over and gently toss to coat all nuggets.
10 - Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The air fryer does all the heavy lifting, giving you crispy edges without a deep fryer or excessive oil.
  • It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect when you need something impressive but have no time.
  • The sweet chili sauce balances savory spices in a way that keeps you reaching for more.
02 -
  • Skipping the tofu press is tempting but leads to steam instead of crispiness—those 10 minutes are not negotiable if you want the real experience.
  • Overcrowding the air fryer basket traps steam and ruins texture, so if you have doubts, work in batches and keep the first batch warm in a low oven.
  • The sauce coats best when drizzled over hot tofu, so time it so they finish cooking around the same moment.
03 -
  • For next-level crispiness, lightly spray the coated tofu with a bit of oil in a spray bottle right before air frying—it sounds extra, but it works.
  • Make the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge; the flavors actually deepen overnight, so you can prep on a lazy Sunday and enjoy all week.
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