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Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Bites with Easy Homemade Peanut Sauce

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Golden, crunchy tofu bites made in the air fryer and served with a creamy, sweet-and-spicy peanut sauce. This easy, crowd-pleasing snack is perfect for parties, potlucks, or healthy weeknight comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz firm or extra-firm tofu (pressed to remove excess water)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • 1/4 cup natural creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1–2 teaspoons sriracha or chili paste
  • 2–4 tablespoons warm water (to thin sauce)
  • Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu: Unwrap tofu and set between layers of paper towels or a clean dish towel. Place a heavy skillet or a few cans on top and let sit for 10 minutes to remove excess water.
  2. Cube the tofu: Cut pressed tofu into 3/4-inch cubes (or smaller for bite-size pieces).
  3. Season & coat: In a mixing bowl, gently toss tofu cubes with soy sauce and olive oil. Sprinkle with cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  5. Air fry the tofu: Arrange cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crisp and golden.
  6. Make the peanut sauce: While tofu cooks, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sriracha in a bowl. Add warm water a tablespoon at a time until creamy and pourable. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Serve & garnish: Transfer crispy tofu bites to a plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, green onions, and crushed peanuts if desired. Serve hot with peanut sauce for dipping.

Notes

Pressing the tofu is crucial for crispiness. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—work in batches if needed. For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos. The peanut sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. For extra crunch, let tofu cool for 2 minutes after air frying. To reheat, air fry at 350°F for 5 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer tofu, crispy tofu, peanut sauce, vegan appetizer, gluten-free snack, healthy snack, plant-based, party food, Asian tofu bites

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/crispy-air-fryer-tofu-bites-recipe-easy-homemade-peanut-sauce/