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- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1 tablespoon cornstarch - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - ½ teaspoon black pepper - ½ teaspoon salt I love using firm tofu for this recipe. It holds its shape well and offers a great texture. The soy sauce adds a savory flavor that makes every bite tasty. Cornstarch is key for that perfect crunch. Olive oil helps everything cook evenly. - 1 ripe mango, diced - 1 red chili, finely chopped (adjust for spice preference) - 1 tablespoon lime juice - 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup - Salt to taste The spicy mango sauce is a game changer. Ripe mango gives it a sweet base. Red chili adds heat, so you can adjust it to your liking. Lime juice brightens the flavors, while honey or maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness. - Air fryer - Mixing bowls - Cutting board - Knife - Blender or food processor - Measuring spoons You’ll need an air fryer for this recipe. It makes the tofu crispy without deep frying. Mixing bowls are great for marinating. A cutting board and knife are essential for prepping the tofu and mango. A blender or food processor helps create a smooth dipping sauce. Measuring spoons ensure you get the right amounts for each ingredient. For the full recipe, check the recipe section above. Enjoy making these tasty snacks! To start, you need to cut and drain the tofu. Use firm tofu for the best texture. First, press the tofu to remove excess water. Once drained, cut it into bite-sized cubes, about one inch each. This size helps it cook evenly and gives a nice crunch. Next, marinate the tofu. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Add the tofu cubes and toss gently. Make sure each piece is coated well. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes. This helps the tofu absorb all the tasty flavors. After marinating, it’s time to coat the tofu. Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated cubes. Toss them gently again until all sides are covered. The cornstarch is key for a crispy finish when air frying. Now, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures even cooking and crispiness. While it heats, prepare your air fryer basket. Lightly coat it with olive oil spray. This helps prevent sticking and adds a bit of flavor. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate. Cook the tofu for 15 to 20 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure all sides get golden brown. While the tofu cooks, you can make the dipping sauce. In a blender, combine diced mango, red chili, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or salt as needed. This spicy mango dipping sauce pairs perfectly with the crispy tofu. The sweet and spicy flavors create a fun snack that everyone will love. Enjoy your homemade crispy tofu bites with this delicious dip! Tofu can be soft, but we want it crispy. Coating it in cornstarch is key. The cornstarch helps create a crunchy outer layer when air fried. It absorbs moisture and creates a nice crust. When placing tofu in the air fryer, don't overcrowd it. Spread the pieces out in one layer. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece. It helps them crisp up evenly for that perfect bite. You can boost the flavor of your tofu bites. Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary. Spices such as cayenne pepper or cumin can also add depth. For marinating, 15-20 minutes is ideal. This allows the tofu to soak up the flavors. If you have more time, marinate for an hour or even overnight. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes. These tofu bites can shine alongside many sides. Pair them with a fresh salad or crunchy veggies. You can also serve them with rice or quinoa for a full meal. For presentation, arrange the crispy tofu bites on a bright platter. Add fresh cilantro or mint leaves for color. Place the spicy mango dipping sauce in a small bowl in the center. This makes for an eye-catching display that will impress your guests. For the full recipe, check out the Crispy Tofu Bites with Spicy Mango Dipping Sauce. {{image_2}} You can use different types of tofu for this recipe. Firm tofu works best, but you can also try extra-firm tofu. Extra-firm tofu gives a denser bite and holds its shape well. Silken tofu is softer and does not crisp up like firm types. It is better for blending into sauces or soups. Dipping sauces can change the whole dish. I love spicy mango sauce, but peanut sauce adds a rich flavor. Tahini sauce is another great choice for a creamy texture. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chilies. This way, you can make the sauce as mild or spicy as you like. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still enjoy crispy tofu bites. Oven-baking is one method. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated tofu on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway. Pan-frying is another option. Heat oil in a skillet and cook the tofu until golden brown. Each method will give you tasty tofu, but the texture may vary. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. To store leftover crispy tofu bites, use an airtight container. Glass containers work great. Keep your tofu in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing. This keeps it fresh and ready for later. To reheat your crispy tofu, the air fryer is best. Set it to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps the tofu crispy. You can also use a skillet on medium heat. Just add a splash of oil and cook for a few minutes. This method helps maintain texture and flavor. You can freeze uncooked tofu bites. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. For cooked tofu, let it cool first. Then, store in an airtight container. To thaw, move the tofu to the fridge overnight. This keeps the texture nice. Avoid microwaving directly from the freezer, as it can make it mushy. To get crispy tofu, follow these key steps: - Use firm tofu: Firm tofu holds its shape well and crisps nicely. - Press the tofu: Remove excess water by pressing it. This helps with crispiness. - Cut into small cubes: Aim for 1-inch pieces. Smaller pieces cook faster and get crispier. - Marinate before coating: Use soy sauce, garlic powder, and spices. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes. - Coat with cornstarch: Sprinkle cornstarch evenly over the marinated tofu. This gives it a crunchy crust. - Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Arrange tofu in a single layer. This helps hot air circulate evenly. Yes, you can use frozen tofu. Freezing changes the texture, making it spongier. This means it absorbs marinades well. Here's what to know: - Thaw properly: Let it sit in the fridge overnight or use a microwave. - Press after thawing: Remove excess water like you would with fresh tofu. - Texture difference: Frozen tofu is softer and chewier, which some people love. Crispy tofu bites pair well with many dishes. Here are some great options: - Rice or quinoa: These grains complement the tofu's texture. - Salads: Add crispy tofu to a fresh green salad for extra protein. - Wraps: Use the tofu in a wrap with veggies and sauces. - Dipping sauces: Serve with spicy mango dipping sauce from the Full Recipe or try peanut sauce. - Veggies: Pair with steamed or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Tofu bites are simple and tasty. You need firm tofu, spices, and a few tools. I shared steps for preparing and cooking, plus a spicy mango dipping sauce. You can tweak flavors and try different sauces, too. Remember these tips for crispiness and flavor. Store leftovers well to enjoy later. With the right ingredients and methods, you can make yummy tofu bites at home. Enjoy experimenting with this dish!

Air Fryer Crispy Tofu Bites

Discover the ultimate recipe for Crispy Tofu Bites with Spicy Mango Dipping Sauce that will elevate your snacking game! This simple dish combines marinated, air-fried tofu with a sweet and spicy mango sauce that's perfect for parties or a cozy night in. Get ready to impress your taste buds with these delightful flavors.
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Ingredients
  

14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon salt

For the Spicy Mango Dipping Sauce:

1 ripe mango, diced

1 red chili, finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

Salt to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Tofu: Begin by cutting the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces).

    Marinate: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Add the tofu cubes, gently tossing to coat evenly. Allow the tofu to marinate for 15-20 minutes for enhanced flavor.

      Coat with Cornstarch: Sprinkle the cornstarch over the marinated tofu. Toss gently again until all sides are coated, which will help achieve a crispy texture during air frying.

        Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

          Arrange Tofu: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded for optimal crispness.

            Air Fry: Cook the tofu for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy on all sides.

              Prepare the Dipping Sauce: While the tofu is cooking, make the dipping sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine diced mango, red chili, lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth, adjusting sweetness and seasoning as desired.

                Serve: Once the tofu is crispy and golden, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with the spicy mango dipping sauce on the side for dipping.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 30 mins | 2-4 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: Arrange the crispy tofu bites on a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro or mint leaves. Place the mango dipping sauce in a small bowl in the center for a colorful and enticing display.