Name: Crispy Tofu Fries in the Air Fryer Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian/American
Ingredients: 1 block tofu (super-firm or extra-firm, vacuum-sealed); ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 2 tablespoons corn starch; ¼ cup nutritional yeast

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Introduction

Crispy tofu fries are a delicious, healthy alternative to traditional fries, perfect for snacking or a side dish. Made in the air fryer, they come out crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices and nutritional yeast.

A white speckled bowl lined with white parchment paper is filled with golden-brown, rectangular vegan chickpea fries. The fries have a crispy texture with small green herbs sprinkled all over them. On the right side inside the bowl, there is a small white ramekin filled with smooth, bright yellow vegan honey mustard sauce. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, and a green parsley leaf is around the bottom right corner outside the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 block tofu (super-firm or extra-firm, vacuum-sealed)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
2 tablespoons corn starch
¼ cup nutritional yeast

Instructions

Step 1: Open and drain the block of tofu, then pat dry thoroughly with a towel. Slice the tofu into fry shapes using a sharp knife.
Step 2: Place the tofu fries in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle on the salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder. Add the toasted sesame oil and mix well to coat evenly.
Step 3: Add the corn starch to the bowl and toss the tofu fries until they are coated evenly.
Step 4: Sprinkle the nutritional yeast over the tofu fries and gently mix until all pieces are fully coated. Some loose flakes at the bottom of the bowl are fine.
Step 5: Spread the tofu fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Cook at 390°F for 20 minutes, shaking the basket twice during cooking to ensure even crisping. Adjust cooking times as needed based on your air fryer model.
Step 6: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy your crispy tofu fries!

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, press the tofu for 15-30 minutes before slicing to remove excess moisture.
Try substituting smoked paprika for red pepper flakes for a smoky twist.
If you don’t have nutritional yeast, you can omit it or substitute with grated vegan Parmesan for extra flavor.

Storage

Store leftover tofu fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.

How to Serve

A close-up of crispy golden brown sticks coated with a coarse breadcrumb mixture, showing tiny green herb flakes and small orange bits, being dipped into a smooth, creamy, bright yellow sauce inside a small white cup. A woman's hand is holding one stick, partly covered in the thick sauce. More sticks rest on crisp white paper underneath the cup, all set against a white marbled surface. The texture of the sticks looks crunchy, with detailed breadcrumb coating visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake these tofu fries instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake them at 425°F on a lined baking sheet for about 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through until golden and crispy.

What type of tofu works best for tofu fries?

Super-firm or extra-firm tofu works best because it holds its shape well and crisps nicely. Be sure to drain and press the tofu well before cooking.