This air fried tofu is the easiest most delicious way to make a good for you flavorful show stopping veggie dinner at home on a weekday. (No cornstarch needed)
Remove the tofu from its package and drain all the water. Slice the block into 4 pieces about 1 inch thick or so.
16 oz block extra firm tofu
Line a large plate with a lint free towel and place the tofu on top. Fold the sides of the towel over the tofu and press with the palm of your hands to absorb as much liquid as possible. Add a heavy item on top like a large can or heavy pot. Allow the tofu to press for a good half hour or so. (This step can be prepped a couple of days ahead if desired and refrigerated).
Using a sharp knife cut a few shallow diagonal slits in the wider side of each tofu fillet. For a diamond patter also score the tofu in the opposite direction.
In a shallow container combine the marinade ingredients.
Place the tofu fillets in the marinade with the scored side down. Move the container around as to allow the marinade to flow over the top and coat the tofu all over. Allow to marinade for 30 minutes flipping the tofu half way. (This can also be done overnight in the refrigerator, make sure to bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking).
Preheat your air-fryer to 400”F.
Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with oil or line with a piece of parchment paper. Alternatively you can oil one side of each tofu fillet to prevent sticking.
Place the marinated tofu inside the air fryer basket with the scored side up. Air fry for 23 to 25 minutes until you notice a little caramelization around the edges.
While the tofu is cooking you can make the mango salsa and the basil mango sauce. These can also be prepped in advance. Serve the tofu over a bed of rice drizzled with the basil mango sauce and mango salsa on top.
Mango Salsa
Peel and dice the mango into small cubes. Combine with the red onion, chili pepper, a good squeeze of lime juice and basil. Season to taste with sea salt and extra lime as desired.
1 yellow mango, 1 red or green chili pepper, 1/2 red onion, 1/4 cup basil leaves, 1 lime, sea salt to taste
Notes
Air Fryer Tofu Cooking Times
1 inch thick tofu steaks - 23 to 25 minutes @400" F.