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Air Fryer Orange Tofu

Crispy, tangy, and irresistibly sticky—this Air Fryer Orange Tofu is a healthier, vegan twist on a classic Chinese takeout favorite. Made with simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, it's the perfect quick dinner that delivers flavor and crunch without the oil.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2 People
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu:
  • 1 block 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tbsp sesame oil optional
  • Cooking spray for air fryer
For the Orange Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup orange juice fresh or bottled
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup or agave
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water slurry
  • 1 tsp garlic minced
  • 1 tsp ginger minced
  • 1/2 tsp red chili flakes optional for heat
  • 1 tsp orange zest optional, for stronger citrus flavor

Method
 

  1. Press tofu for at least 10–15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
  2. Toss tofu with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil until evenly coated.
  3. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place tofu in a single layer in the basket.
  4. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crisp.
  5. Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, soy sauce, maple syrup, vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
  6. Once simmering, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened (2–3 mins).
  7. Toss cooked tofu in the orange sauce until fully coated.
  8. Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or steamed veggies.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate tofu in soy sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before air frying.
Adjust sweetness or spice level by changing maple syrup or chili flakes.
Sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
This dish pairs well with jasmine rice or stir-fried broccoli.