Sweet and Tangy Air Fried Lemon Tofu (or Baked Without Oil)
Crispy lemon tofu is easy to make in the air fryer or oven without oil. Toss the golden tofu cubes with a sweet and tangy fresh lemon sauce for an easy vegan dinner.
Servings: 4
Calories: 104kcal
Ingredients
- 1 16-ounce block super firm tofu (or extra-firm tofu, pressed), patted dry and cubed
- 1 Tablespoon tamari (or soy sauce, if not gluten-free)
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
For the sauce:
- ½ cup water
- ⅓ cup lemon juice
- 2 Tablespoons organic sugar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Place the tofu cubes in a quart-size sealable storage bag or a storage container with a tight-fitting lid. Add the tamari and seal the bag or container. Shake until all the tofu is coated with the tamari.1 Tablespoon tamari, 1 16-ounce block super firm tofu
- Add the tablespoon of cornstarch. Shake again until the tofu is evenly coated. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- Meanwhile, add all the sauce ingredients to a small bowl and stir until combined. Set aside.½ cup water, ⅓ cup lemon juice, 2 Tablespoons organic sugar, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- For air frying*: Place the tofu in the air fryer in a single layer. You may need to cook it in two batches, depending on your model. Cook at 390 to 400°F for 10 to 15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until lightly browned and crispy.
- For baking: Spread the tofu cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 425°F for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until lightly browned and crispy.
- Place the cooked tofu in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Give the sauce a stir, then pour it over the tofu. Stir until the sauce has thickened and coats the tofu.
- Serve immediately with rice and vegetables, if desired.
Notes
*Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model. Adjust the time as needed until the tofu is golden brown and your desired level of crispness.
This tofu is best enjoyed immediately. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave.
Nutrition
Calories: 104kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Sodium: 325mg | Potassium: 206mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 39mg | Iron: 1mg
