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Crispy Air-Fried Tofu Balls

Deliciously Crispy Air-Fried Tofu Balls You’ll Crave

Crispy Air-Fried Tofu Balls are a delicious, healthier alternative to greasy takeout, packed with flavor and quick to prepare.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Pressing Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 14 minutes
Course Appetizers
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4 balls
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • Air Fryer

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu Mixture

  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu Pressing well is key to achieving that perfect texture.
  • 2 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari Adds essential savory flavor; tamari is gluten-free!
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil Gives a rich, nutty aroma.
  • 2 cloves garlic Finely minced adds depth and aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger Grated fresh ginger brightens the flavor.
  • 2 green onions Both white and green parts create a lovely mix of flavors.
  • 1 small carrot Finely grated for sweetness and crunch.
  • ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro or parsley Optional, but highly recommended for freshness.
  • ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs Creates the perfect crunch.
  • ¼ cup cornstarch Helps bind the mix and adds to the crispy texture.
  • 2 tablespoon nutritional yeast Adds a cheesy umami flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper A must for a well-rounded flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika Adds a lovely smoky touch.
  • ¼ teaspoon chili flakes Add for a spicy kick.

For the Crispy Coating

  • ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs Provides that addictive crunch.
  • 2 tablespoon cornstarch Helps achieve a golden-brown color.
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil Toss with crumbs for an extra crispy finish.
  • Pinch salt and pepper Enhances the overall flavor.

For the Dipping Sauce (Optional)

  • 3 tablespoon soy sauce Classic dipping sauce base.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice Adds tanginess to balance the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil Deepens the flavor profile.
  • 1–2 teaspoon maple syrup Sweetness to counterbalance salty and tangy notes.
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha Optional for heat; adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds For added crunch.
  • 1 tablespoon finely sliced green onion Fresh garnishing.

For Serving (Optional)

  • Steamed rice or noodles Serve on the side for a complete meal.
  • Extra chopped green onion As a garnish.
  • Toasted sesame seeds For an attractive topping.
  • Lime or lemon wedges Squeeze for a zesty finish.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Start by draining the extra-firm tofu and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. Place a flat plate on top and add a weight, pressing for 20–30 minutes until the excess moisture is removed.
  • While the tofu is pressing, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
  • Once the tofu is pressed, crumble it in a large mixing bowl until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
  • Into the crumbled tofu, add soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, grated carrot, and chopped cilantro or parsley. Stir everything thoroughly.
  • Next, mix in panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, nutritional yeast or Parmesan, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chili flakes.
  • Scoop out about 1 to 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll it between your palms to create balls, about 1–1.25 inches in diameter.
  • In a shallow bowl, combine ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of neutral oil and rub it into the crumbs.
  • Roll each tofu ball in the prepared crumb mixture, gently pressing to adhere well to the surface.
  • Place the coated tofu balls in a single layer in your preheated air fryer, leaving small gaps for air circulation.
  • Air-fry the tofu balls at 380°F (190°C) for 10–14 minutes, turning or shaking them halfway through.
  • While the tofu balls are cooking, mix the dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
  • Transfer the hot crispy tofu balls to a serving plate, drizzling them with your prepared dipping sauce.

Notes

Ensure the tofu is pressed well to remove excess moisture for maximum crispiness. Customize flavors as needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ballCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 10gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg
Keyword air fryer recipes, Crispy Air-Fried Tofu Balls, easy recipes, Healthy Snacks, tofu balls, vegan appetizers
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