Step 1: Press the Tofu: Remove the tofu from its packaging. Wrap it in 2–3 layers of paper towels and place it on a plate. Set a heavy object on top — a baking sheet with 2 cans works perfectly — and press for 15–20 minutes. The paper towels will soak through with excess water. More water pressed out = crispier final result. If you're in a rush, 10 minutes with extra firm tofu still works. Image alt text: Air fryer tofu step 1: tofu block wrapped in paper towels being pressed with a heavy baking sheet and cans

Step 2: Cube and Marinate: Cut the pressed tofu into 2cm (¾-inch) cubes. Toss them in a bowl with the soy sauce and sesame oil, gently turning so every piece is coated. Let it sit for 5 minutes — this gives the tofu enough time to absorb the soy sauce's savory depth without making it soggy. Image alt text: Air fryer tofu step 2: tofu cubes in a bowl being tossed with soy sauce and sesame oil, marinating

Step 3: Coat with Cornstarch: Mix the cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, and black pepper in a large bowl. Add the marinated tofu cubes and gently toss — hands or chopsticks work best — until every cube is evenly coated with a thin layer of dry powder. Shake off any excess. A light dusting creates a delicate crisp shell; too thick a layer turns tough and pasty. Image alt text: Air fryer tofu step 3: tofu cubes being coated with cornstarch and spices mixture, white powder evenly covering each cube

Step 4: Air Fry at 200°C (400°F) for 15 Minutes: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3 minutes. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer — no overlapping, space between each piece. Air fry for 15 minutes. At the 7–8 minute mark, pull out the basket and give it a good shake to flip the cubes. You'll see them transform from pale white to golden, with deep amber-brown edges appearing — that's the crispy part forming. Image alt text: Air fryer tofu step 4: tofu cubes in air fryer, turning golden brown with crispy edges at the halfway shake

Step 5: Serve Immediately: The finished tofu should have a golden, crisp exterior that resists slightly when pressed. Tip it into a bowl and serve right away. Dip in sweet chili sauce, drizzle with chili oil, or eat plain. For a tofu bowl: start with steamed rice, pile on the air fryer tofu, add shredded cucumber and carrot, then drizzle with sauce. Image alt text: Air fryer tofu step 5: finished golden crispy tofu cubes in a bowl, served with sweet chili sauce, some on a rice bowl