Learn how to make Crispy Tofu with this easy and delicious recipe that you can make in your air fryer, oven or on a skillet. Just a few ingredients and you'll have the crispiest tofu on your table in less than 30 minutes. Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan and low carb.
If pressing tofu: Use a tofu press to remove excess moisture or place the block of tofu between two paper towel lined heavy plates or blocks for 10 minutes.
Cut the tofu into even-sized 1-inch cubes.
Add the tofu cubes to a bowl. Season with coconut aminos, nutritional yeast, sesame oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt and black pepper. Toss gently to coat then let it sit for at least 15 minutes. Then sprinkle with arrowroot starch (in 1/2 tablespoon increments, mixing in between so that it’s easier to combine).
Add the tofu into the air fryer basket in a single layer, (you will have to cook batches). Lightly coat with avocado oil spray. Air Fry at 375F for 15 minutes, or until golden and crispy, shaking the basket or flipping each piece halfway through.
Preheat the oven to 415 F.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the tofu on the baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven for 22-28 minutes, or until golden and crispy - flipping halfway through and watching carefully that the tofu does not burn.
Optional: Set the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes for charred tops.
Heat 3 Tbsp avocado oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is nice and hot, add tofu, in a single layer (you may have to cook in batches) and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until, golden brown and crispy on all sides.
In a large pot or wok, whisk together the sauce ingredients. Bring to a boil over medium-heat, allowing to bubble for 1 minute. Once boiling, bring the heat down to medium and cook until the sauce is thick and glossy, about 2-3 minutes. Add more water, as needed to thin out sauce to desired consistency.
Coat tofu with sauce: Once tofu and sauce are done, add tofu to the pot and heat on medium. Use tongs or chopsticks to toss gently, until every piece is coated and heated through.
Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds and serve.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Leftover pan seared tofu should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days. You can reheat your stir fry in the microwave in 15-second increments or warm it over low heat on the stove.
How to freeze
You can freeze your tofu leftovers if you'd like. However, the texture of the veggies or tofu won't be as crispy after they've been frozen. If you don't mind this, then go ahead and freeze your stir fry for up to 2 months. Just thaw it out in the fridge before you reheat it.