Air Fryer Sweet Chili Tofu (Print version)

Crispy tofu nuggets coated in a sweet chili glaze, air fried for a golden, flavorful bite.

# What You Need:

→ 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 10–15 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 dry mixture until evenly coated on all sides.
05 - Drizzle the neutral oil over the coated tofu pieces and toss again to ensure even coverage.
06 - Arrange the tofu nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
07 - Air fry at 400°F for 12–15 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 - Transfer the cooked tofu to a large bowl. Pour the sauce over and gently toss to coat all nuggets evenly.
10 - Serve immediately garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The air fryer does something magical here—the exterior gets shatteringly crisp while the inside stays creamy, no deep frying required.
  • It's genuinely faster than ordering takeout, and the sweet chili glaze tastes like you've been simmering something all day.
  • Works as a snack at midnight, an impressive appetizer for guests, or a light dinner when you're tired of making excuses.
02 -
  • Pressing the tofu isn't boring prep work—it's the difference between crispy nuggets and disappointment, so don't rush it or skip it out of impatience.
  • The air fryer times vary wildly depending on the model, so check around minute 12 and look for golden color rather than setting a timer and hoping for the best.
03 -
  • Make the coating mix ahead of time and store it in a jar—when you get home after a long day, pressing tofu and coating it takes half the mental energy if the mixture is already waiting.
  • Double batch the sauce and refrigerate the extra for dipping tomorrow, or for drizzling over rice bowls later in the week.
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