If you’ve never tried Agedashi Tofu before, you’re in for a treat! This crispy, golden exterior paired with a delicate, silky interior is like a flavor explosion in every bite. And the best part? We’re making it in the air fryer, which means it’s quicker and healthier without sacrificing that signature crunch. Seriously, once you try this Air Fryer Agedashi Tofu, it’s going to become your new favorite snack or appetizer. It’s simple, savory, and totally addictive—trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one piece!
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Agedashi Tofu
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about the experience. Whether you’re hosting a Japanese-themed dinner, adding a new appetizer to your recipe collection, or simply craving something crispy and satisfying, this dish fits the bill. Here’s why it’s a winner:
Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal. You can even pair it with rice or noodles for a complete dish.
Budget-Friendly: Tofu is super affordable, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples. You’ll get that restaurant-quality dish without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy: The air fryer does most of the work for you. No need for deep frying—just a few minutes and voilà, crispy, delicious tofu!
Customizable: Want more heat? Add some chili sauce. Want extra umami? Throw in some toasted sesame seeds or seaweed. It’s all up to you.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, Agedashi Tofu is a dish that always impresses. It’s crispy, savory, and packed with flavor that both vegetarians and non-vegetarians will enjoy.
Ingredients in Air Fryer Agedashi Tofu
Agedashi Tofu is all about the balance of textures and flavors. Here’s what you’ll need to make this crispy delight:
Firm Tofu: The star of the dish! Firm tofu holds up well in the air fryer, keeping that perfect balance of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Cornstarch: This is your secret ingredient for achieving that crispy, golden crust. It gives the tofu that satisfying crunch!
Soy Sauce: Adds that savory umami flavor that makes the dish so irresistible.
Mirin or Rice Vinegar: Adds a subtle sweetness and tanginess to balance the salty soy sauce.
Dashi Stock (or vegetable broth): This gives the sauce that rich, umami-packed base that makes Agedashi Tofu so special.
Sesame Oil: For a light, nutty finish and to enhance the flavors of the sauce.
Green Onions (optional): For a fresh, crisp garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor.
Shredded Daikon or Grated Ginger (optional): These add a fresh, zesty contrast that perfectly complements the rich sauce.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the tofu gets crispy all over.
Prepare the Tofu: Drain the tofu and press out excess moisture using a paper towel or tofu press. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Coat the Tofu: In a bowl, lightly toss the tofu cubes in cornstarch until they are evenly coated. This will give them that irresistible crunch when air-fried.
Prepare Your Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer, making sure they aren’t crowded, so they cook evenly.
Cook to Perfection: Air fry the tofu for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping. The tofu should be golden and crispy on the outside.
Make the Sauce: While the tofu is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin (or rice vinegar), and dashi stock. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low and add sesame oil. Stir until heated through and well combined.
Finishing Touches: Once the tofu is crispy, remove it from the air fryer and transfer it to a plate. Pour the sauce over the tofu and garnish with green onions, daikon, or grated ginger, if desired.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while it’s hot and crispy! Enjoy the tofu as a snack, side dish, or even as part of a main course.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approx. 180
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
How to Serve Air Fryer Agedashi Tofu
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve over a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or sushi rice for a more substantial meal.
- Pair with miso soup or a simple green salad for a complete, light meal.
- Add a drizzle of spicy mayo or sriracha for an extra kick of flavor.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and a dash of soy sauce for added texture and depth.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Be sure to press your tofu well to get rid of excess moisture, as this will help it crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
- If you like your tofu extra crispy, feel free to air fry it for an additional few minutes.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—air needs to circulate around the tofu to get it nice and crispy.
- You can substitute the dashi stock with vegetable broth if you don’t have dashi on hand.
- Make the sauce to your liking! Add more mirin for sweetness or more soy sauce for saltiness.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use soft tofu instead of firm tofu?
Soft tofu is too delicate for this recipe and will fall apart. Stick with firm tofu for the best texture.
2. How do I make this dish spicier?
You can add chili flakes or drizzle some sriracha on top for an extra kick of heat.
3. Can I bake the tofu instead of using the air fryer?
Yes! Bake the tofu at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a crispy texture.
4. Is the sauce vegan?
Yes, the sauce is vegan as long as you use vegetable dashi or broth.
5. Can I use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version?
Absolutely! Tamari is a great gluten-free substitute for soy sauce.
6. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer to get the tofu crispy again.
7. Can I use cornstarch for the coating?
Yes! Cornstarch is the perfect option for that crispy, golden crust.
8. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Make the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge.
9. What can I serve with this dish?
Serve it with rice, miso soup, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.
10. Can I use frozen tofu?
Frozen tofu works well for a chewier texture. Just make sure to thaw and press it before using.
Conclusion
And there you have it—Air Fryer Agedashi Tofu, crispy on the outside, soft and silky on the inside, and bursting with umami goodness. With the air fryer doing most of the work, you’ve got a dish that’s both easy and impressive. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sophisticated appetizer, this recipe delivers it all in just 25 minutes. So go ahead, make this today—you’re going to love it!
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Air Fryer Agedashi Tofu
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A healthier twist on the classic Japanese dish, this Air Fryer Agedashi Tofu features crispy golden tofu served in a warm, savory dashi-based sauce—light, comforting, and packed with umami.
Ingredients
- 400g firm tofu (preferably silken or medium-firm)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for brushing)
- 2 cups dashi stock
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- Grated daikon radish (optional, for garnish)
- Bonito flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Grated ginger (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Press tofu gently with paper towels to remove excess water. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Lightly coat tofu pieces in cornstarch, shaking off the excess.
- Brush tofu with vegetable oil or spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Place tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 200°C (392°F) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- While tofu is cooking, prepare the sauce by combining dashi, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar in a small saucepan. Heat gently until warm, stirring to dissolve sugar. Do not boil.
- Once tofu is ready, transfer to serving bowls. Pour warm sauce over tofu and garnish with chopped green onions, grated daikon, bonito flakes, and grated ginger if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
- For the best texture, use medium-firm or silken tofu and press it well before cooking.
- If you don’t have dashi stock, substitute with a light vegetable broth and a dash of soy sauce.
- To make this vegan, omit bonito flakes and ensure dashi is made with kombu and shiitake instead of fish-based stock.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg