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air fryer salt & pepper crispy tofu
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Air Fryer Salt & Pepper Crispy Tofu

This air fryer salt & pepper crispy tofu is one of those recipes I make when I’m craving something bold, flavorful, and a little addictive — without going anywhere near a deep fryer.
Keyword air fryer salt & pepper crispy tofu
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Author Geraldine Julie

Ingredients

  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed (400 g)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon white pepper (optional but recommended)
  • 1 small onion , thinly sliced
  • 4 garlic cloves , minced
  • 2 green chilies , sliced
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for the pan sauté)

Instructions

  • Press tofu for at least 10 minutes, then cut into cubes. Toss with cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and white pepper until coated.
  • Preheat to 390°F (200°C). Lightly oil or spray tofu.Air fry 10 minutes, shake the basket, then cook 8–10 minutes more until golden.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet. Cook onions for 3 minutes. Add garlic + chilies; sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add the crispy tofu to the pan and toss quickly so everything coats evenly.
  • Serve hot as a snack, appetizer, or over rice/noodles.

Notes

Taste & Texture

Crispy shell
Soft tofu inside
Fragrant garlic + onion
Fresh chili heat
Bold black & white pepper finish
It tastes like takeout… but lighter.

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: 3 days
Reheat:
 Air fryer — 375°F (190°C), 5 minutes
Stovetop — sauté 3–4 minutes
Freezing: Not ideal — texture becomes chewy.