Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu (Printable version)

Crispy golden tofu coated in sweet chili sauce, air fried to perfect tenderness and flavor.

# Ingredient list:

→ Tofu Nuggets

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

→ Sweet Chili Sauce

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

→ Garnish

14 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

# Step-by-step guide:

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 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 coating mixture until evenly coated on all sides.
05 - Drizzle the neutral oil over the tofu pieces and toss again to ensure all pieces are well coated.
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, 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 thoroughly.
10 - Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • They're genuinely crispy on the outside with that satisfying crunch that converts tofu skeptics.
  • The sweet chili sauce hits that perfect balance between tangy, sweet, and just a little dangerous.
  • Ready in 30 minutes flat, which means you can call them last-minute appetizers without the stress.
02 -
  • Skipping the tofu pressing step will result in steam that ruins crispiness—no shortcuts here, the moisture has to go.
  • Don't toss the sauce in immediately if you want to serve them with dipping instead; some people prefer that control.
03 -
  • A light spray of oil over the coated tofu before air frying takes the crispiness from good to restaurant-level incredible.
  • Make the sauce while the tofu cooks so everything comes together hot and the flavors actually integrate instead of just sitting on top.
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