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Crispy Air-Fried Tofu Balls

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Delicious crispy air-fried tofu balls, bursting with flavor and perfect for snacking or pairing with your favorite dishes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz (400 g) extra-firm tofu, pressed well
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil (or neutral oil like canola)
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated (or 1/2 ground ginger)
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped (white and green parts)
  • 1 small carrot, finely grated (about 1/3 cup)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro or parsley (optional but recommended)
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch (or potato starch)
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast or finely grated Parmesan (optional, for umami)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or regular paprika
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes or cayenne (optional, for heat)
  • For the crispy coating:
  • 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil (to toss with crumbs for extra crispiness)
  • Pinch of salt and pepper
  • For the dipping sauce (optional but recommended):
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1–2 tsp maple syrup, honey, or sugar (to taste)
  • 1 tsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional, to taste)
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp finely sliced green onion
  • For serving (optional):
  • Steamed rice or noodles
  • Extra chopped green onion
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Lime or lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tofu: Press the tofu for 20–30 minutes to remove moisture.
  2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
  3. Make the Tofu Mixture: Crumble the tofu and mix with remaining ingredients in a bowl.
  4. Add Binders and Seasonings: Combine all binders and adjust moisture if necessary.
  5. Shape the Tofu Balls: Roll the mixture into balls about 1–1.25 inches in diameter.
  6. Prepare the Crispy Coating: Mix coating ingredients and rub oil into crumbs.
  7. Coat the Tofu Balls: Roll each ball in the crumb mixture.
  8. Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place in a single layer in the fryer basket.
  9. Air-Fry the Tofu Balls: Cook at 380°F for 10–14 minutes until golden and crisp.
  10. Make the Dipping Sauce: Combine sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
  11. Serve: Enjoy hot with dipping sauce and optional side items.

Notes

Ensure tofu is pressed properly for the best texture. Adjust seasonings as per your taste preference.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingwithmayaa.com/crispy-air-fried-tofu-balls/

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