Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu (Air Fryer Recipe)
Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu (Air Fryer Recipe) has become one of our absolute favorite ways to enjoy tofu—it’s quick, easy, delicious, healthy, and totally plant-based. The first time we had this dish at a cozy little Chinese restaurant, we were blown away by the golden, crispy texture and bold, peppery flavor. Since then, we’ve been on a mission to recreate that magic at home, and the air fryer has made it possible—without all the excess oil.
This air fried version gives you all the crunch with a lighter, healthier twist. Each bite is perfectly seasoned and irresistibly crispy on the outside, while the tofu stays tender inside. Whether you’re a tofu newbie or a seasoned fan, this dish is a total crowd-pleaser and one we keep coming back to for a quick weeknight dinner or satisfying snack.
Table of Contents
- About Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu Recipe
- Why You’ll Love Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu Recipe
- Key Ingredients
- How To Make Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu (Air Fryer Recipe)
- Have It Your Way
- Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Health Benefits
- Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Tofu Press
About Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu Recipe
This Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu recipe takes everything you love about the classic takeout favorite and gives it a wholesome twist. Air-fried tofu cubes are coated in cornstarch, seasoned generously with sea salt and white pepper, and tossed with aromatic stir-fried garlic, shallots, jalapeños, and scallions. A sprinkle of crushed Sichuan peppercorns and Chinese five-spice brings the heat and depth of flavor. It’s quick, delicious, and packed with texture.
Why You’ll Love Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu Recipe
- Crispy, crunchy, and full of flavor – All the satisfaction of deep-fried tofu, without the oil.
- Healthier version of a takeout classic – Made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients.
- Perfect for weeknight meals or appetizers – Comes together quickly and easily.
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free – Just make sure to check your spices!
- Great for sharing – Serve it at parties or alongside rice and veggies.
Key Ingredients
- Extra-Firm Tofu – Provides a sturdy, chewy texture that crisps beautifully when air-fried.
- Cornstarch (or Potato Starch) – Creates a light, crispy coating on the tofu for that satisfying crunch.
- White Pepper – Adds a warm, earthy heat that’s distinct from black pepper.
- Sea Salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances the aromatics and spices.
- Cooking Spray – Helps achieve even browning and crispiness in the air fryer.
For the Stir-Fry
- Neutral Oil – Used for sautéing without overpowering the other flavors.
- Garlic Cloves – Adds deep, savory flavor and aromatic intensity.
- Jalapeños – Brings a fresh, bright heat that wakes up the dish.
- Shallots – Offer a subtle sweetness that rounds out the spice.
- Scallions – Add freshness, a pop of color, and a mild oniony bite.
Spice Mix for Sprinkling
- Crushed Sichuan Peppercorns – Provide a signature tingling heat and a slightly citrusy aroma.
- Garlic Powder – Intensifies the savory flavor without the moisture of fresh garlic.
- White Pepper – Repeated here for extra layered heat and complexity.
- Salt – Unifies the flavors in the spice blend.
- Chinese Five Spice Powder – Adds aromatic warmth with hints of star anise, clove, and cinnamon.
How To Make Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu (Air Fryer Recipe)
Air Fry Tofu
- Press the tofu for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Cut the tofu into bite sized cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, mix together corn starch, white pepper, and salt.
- Add tofu pieces and gently toss until all pieces are evenly coated. Spray with cooking spray until all pieces are coated.
- Transfer the tofu pieces to a parchment lined air fryer tray.
- Air fry at 375-400 ℉ for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden and crispy.
Stir Fry
- In a wok or pan over medium low heat, add cooking oil and allow it to heat up.
- Add minced garlic, sauté for 30-60 seconds. Then add chopped shallots, chopped scallions, and sliced jalapenos, along with a pinch of seasoning powder, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add the air fried tofu pieces, and stir to combine all ingredients. Sprinkle with a couple of pinches of seasoning powder. Remove from heat.
- Transfer to a bowl, and garnish with more green onions.
Have It Your Way
- Make it spicier: Add chili oil or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Make it a full meal: Serve over steamed jasmine rice, with sautéed greens on the side.
- No air fryer? Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes or shallow-fry on the stovetop.
- Swap the tofu: Try tempeh or soy curls for a fun variation.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: ~13g
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Fat: ~10g
- Fiber: ~3g
Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.
Health Benefits
- High in plant protein – Tofu is a complete protein that helps with muscle repair and energy.
- Low in saturated fat – Air frying cuts down on oil, making this a heart-healthy option.
- Rich in antioxidants – Jalapeños, garlic, and spices offer immune-boosting benefits.
- Supports digestion – Aromatics like garlic and shallots promote gut health.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- General Tso’s Tofu
- Crispy Eggplant & Tofu Stir Fry
- Sichuan Tofu Stir Fry
- Easy Teriyaki Tofu
- Crispy Sesame Tofu
Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu
Ingredients
For the Air Frying Tofu:
- 16 oz Extra Firm Tofu Pressed, Cubed
- 3 tbsp Corn Starch or potato starch
- 2 tsp White Pepper
- 1 tsp Sea Salt
- 1 tbsp Cooking Spray or oil for misting
For the stir-fry :
- 1 tbsp Cooking Oil
- 2 Garlic Cloves minced
- ½ Jalapenos
- ¼ cup Shallots finely chopped
- 2 Scallions chopped
Spice Mix for Sprinkling:
- ¼ tsp Sichuan Peppercorns crushed
- ¼ tsp Garlic Powder
- ½ tsp White Pepper
- ⅛ tsp Chinese Five Spice Powder
- ¼ tsp Salt
Instructions
Air Fry Tofu
- Press the tofu for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Cut the tofu into bite sized cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, mix together corn starch, white pepper, and salt.
- Add tofu pieces and gently toss until all pieces are evenly coated. Spray with cooking spray until all pieces are coated.
- Transfer the tofu pieces to a parchment lined air fryer tray.
- Air fry at 375-400 ℉ for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden and crispy.
Salt and Pepper Tofu
- In a wok or pan over medium low heat, add cooking oil and allow it to heat up.
- Add minced garlic, sauté for 30-60 seconds. Then add chopped shallots, chopped scallions, and sliced jalapenos, along with a pinch of seasoning powder, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add the air fried tofu pieces, and stir to combine all ingredients. Sprinkle with a couple of pinches of seasoning powder. Remove from heat.
- Transfer to a bowl, and garnish with more green onions.
Notes
- Press the tofu for 20–30 minutes to remove excess moisture—this helps it crisp up better.
- Don’t skip the spice mix – it’s what gives this tofu its signature flavor.
- Use fresh aromatics for the stir-fry to get the best flavor payoff.
- Leftovers keep well – Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days and re-crisp in the air fryer or oven.
Nutrition
Tofu Press
Using a good Tofu Press is crucial for enhancing the texture and flavor of tofu in your culinary creations. Pressing tofu removes excess water, allowing it to absorb marinades and spices more effectively, resulting in a richer and more robust taste. This process also improves the tofu’s texture, making it firmer and more suitable for grilling, frying, or baking. A well-pressed tofu holds its shape better and achieves a desirable crispy exterior while remaining tender on the inside. Investing in a quality tofu press simplifies this process, saving time and ensuring consistent results, ultimately elevating your dishes to a new level of deliciousness. Here is our favorite Tofu Press. It easily And quickly remove water from Tofu to Improve the flavor and give Perfect Texture every time.
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