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Crispy Air Fryer Teriyaki Tofu Bites with Sesame Glaze
Discover the ultimate air fryer recipe: crispy teriyaki tofu bites with sesame glaze. A deliciously quick, healthy, and vegan snack! Try it now!
There's something magical about the way an air fryer can transform simple ingredients into culinary delights. My recent experimentation led me to these crispy teriyaki tofu bites, a recipe that pays homage to my love for Asian flavors while embracing the modern convenience of the air fryer. Growing up, tofu was a staple in our household, making its way into everything from stir-fries to soups. But achieving that perfect crispiness was always a challenge—until now.
These air fryer tofu bites are everything you want them to be: crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with the sweet-salty umami of homemade teriyaki sauce. The air fryer not only speeds up the cooking process but also ensures an even, golden-brown finish that's hard to achieve with traditional frying methods. This dish is a testament to how technology and tradition can come together to create something truly delicious.
Recipe Overview
🥗 Vegetarian
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
20 mins
Total Time
35 mins
Servings
4
Calories
210 kcal
per serving
Cuisine
Chinese
Discover the ultimate air fryer recipe: crispy teriyaki tofu bites with sesame glaze. A deliciously quick, healthy, and vegan snack! Try it now!
Ingredients
- • extra-firm tofu: 14 oz block
- • soy sauce: 1/4 cup
- • mirin: 2 tablespoons
- • maple syrup: 2 tablespoons
- • garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- • fresh ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
- • sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
- • cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
- • black sesame seeds: 2 teaspoons
- • green onions: 2, thinly sliced
- • toasted sesame seeds: for garnish
Instructions
- 1 Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that the tofu cooks evenly and achieves a perfect crispy texture.
- 2 Press the tofu block to remove excess moisture, then cut it into 1-inch cubes. Removing moisture is crucial for crispiness.
- 3 In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, maple syrup, garlic, and ginger to make the teriyaki marinade. Toss the tofu cubes in this mixture and let them marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- 4 Drain the tofu cubes from the marinade, reserving the liquid, and gently coat them in cornstarch. This creates a light, crispy layer when air-fried.
- 5 Arrange the coated tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tofu is golden and crisp.
- 6 Meanwhile, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan, add sesame oil, and simmer over medium heat until it thickens into a glaze.
- 7 Once the tofu is cooked, drizzle with the thickened teriyaki glaze, sprinkle with black sesame seeds and green onions, and toss to coat evenly.
- 8 Serve immediately, garnished with toasted sesame seeds for an extra nutty crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- • Pair these crispy tofu bites with a refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a perfect balance of flavors. A side of steamed jasmine rice can transform this snack into a satisfying meal, offering a comforting contrast to the crunchiness of the tofu. For a beverage pairing, consider serving a light, chilled sake or a jasmine green tea to complement the Asian-inspired flavors. The floral notes of the tea or the delicate sweetness of the sake will enhance the umami of the teriyaki glaze, making every bite a harmonious experience.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover tofu bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the tofu bites on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can be kept for up to 2 months. When reheating, use the air fryer to restore their crispiness—just a quick 5-minute blast at 350°F (175°C) should do the trick. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tofu soggy. Consider refreshing the glaze with a touch of sesame oil and soy sauce before serving.
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