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Porous air fryer tofu tikka bites with roasted peppers and red onion
TrendyTadka Editorial

Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Tikka Bites

Extra-firm tofu gets crisp edges in the air fryer with a thin tikka-spiced yogurt coating, cornstarch, bell pepper, and red onion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 29 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Dinner
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 block 14 ounces extra-firm tofu, pressed or thoroughly dried and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/3 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
  • 1 garlic clove finely grated
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 small bell pepper cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 small red onion separated into 1-inch petals
  • Cilantro and lemon wedges for serving

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Press the tofu for 10 minutes between clean towels under a light weight, or pat it very dry on all sides. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
  2. In a bowl, whisk yogurt, oil, cornstarch, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and salt into a thick paste.
  3. Add tofu, bell pepper, and onion. Fold gently until each piece has a thin coating; no puddle of marinade should remain.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F for 3 minutes. Lightly oil the basket if the manufacturer permits.
  5. Arrange the mixture in one layer with space between pieces. Air fry for 12 to 14 minutes, turning the tofu and vegetables at 7 minutes, until the tofu has dry browned edges.
  6. Rest for 2 minutes, then serve with cilantro and lemon. Cook a second batch rather than crowding a small basket.

Notes

  • Press before cutting so the cubes do not crumble under the weight.
  • Use a flexible spatula when folding tofu into the marinade.
  • Do not line the basket with solid foil that blocks airflow.
  • Air fryers vary; begin checking at 11 minutes and use browning cues.