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Crispy Air Fryer Tofu and Broccoli Bites with Spicy Gochujang

These Crispy Air Fryer Tofu and Broccoli Bites are a delightful combination of textures and flavors, featuring golden, crispy tofu and vibrant broccoli, all drizzled with a spicy gochujang sauce. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal, they are sure to satisfy your taste buds!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz (400g) firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 medium head)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for vegan option)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon minced ginger
  • 1 tablespoon water (to adjust consistency)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
  • Chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
  • Lime wedges (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Start by prepping your tofu: Drain and press the firm tofu for about 15 to 20 minutes to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving the crispy texture you want. You can place a heavy object on top of the tofu to help press it.
  2. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch each). Aim for uniformity to ensure even cooking. You should have about 16-20 pieces. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed tofu, broccoli florets, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the tofu and broccoli are evenly coated. This will create a crispy outer layer during air frying.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that your tofu and broccoli start cooking immediately when you place them in the fryer.
  5. Carefully place the tofu and broccoli mixture in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even crispiness. Air fry for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to help them cook evenly. You want the tofu to be golden brown and the edges of the broccoli to be slightly charred.
  6. While the tofu and broccoli are cooking, prepare the gochujang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and water until well combined. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed. It should be thick but pourable.
  7. After 10 minutes, check the tofu and broccoli. If the tofu isn’t crispy enough for your liking, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes. The broccoli should be bright green and tender yet crispy.
  8. Once done, remove the tofu and broccoli from the air fryer and drizzle with the spicy gochujang sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and lime wedges, if desired. Enjoy your flavorful and crispy bites!

Nutrition

Keywords: Make sure to press the tofu thoroughly to eliminate excess moisture for the best crispy texture. Use parchment paper in the air fryer basket if needed to prevent sticking. Adjust the gochujang sauce to your taste, and consider adding cooked chickpeas or edamame for extra protein.