Hey, friend!
If you’re looking for a super tasty, plant-based dinner that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, you’ve got to try this Air Fryer Tofu with Sticky Sesame Sauce.
The tofu gets crispy on the outside, soft inside, and that sweet, garlicky sesame glaze? Total game-changer.
I’ve made this one at least a dozen times—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. You won’t even miss takeout.
Let’s get into it!
🍴 What You’ll Need
For the Tofu:
- 1 (14 oz) block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
For the Sticky Sesame Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
For Serving (optional):
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Steamed white rice or brown rice
🍽 Servings + Time
- Servings: 3 to 4
- ⏱️ Cook Time: 25 minutes
❤️ Why I Love This Recipe
This is one of those recipes that never fails me. Here’s why:
- Fast and fuss-free: Thanks to the air fryer, it’s quick and easy.
- Crispy without deep frying: No oil splatter, just crispy tofu.
- That sticky sauce: Sweet, savory, a little tangy—SO good!
- Perfect for meal prep: Reheats like a dream.
I started making this when I was trying to cut back on takeout and needed something satisfying but simple. It’s now in regular rotation!
🔬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Cornstarch coating on tofu helps it get extra crispy by absorbing surface moisture and creating a golden crust in the air fryer.
- Soy sauce + hoisin + maple syrup = perfect balance of salty, sweet, and umami.
- Air fryer circulates hot air fast, crisping the tofu evenly without oil.
❌ Common Mistakes
- Not pressing the tofu enough: Too much moisture = soggy tofu.
- Skipping the cornstarch: Don’t! It makes the crust happen.
- Overcrowding the air fryer: Give those cubes room to crisp.
🍚 What to Serve With
- Steamed jasmine or brown rice
- Stir-fried broccoli or bok choy
- Noodles or lettuce wraps
- A light cucumber salad with rice vinegar
👩🍳 Pro Tips
- Press your tofu well — 15 to 30 minutes makes a big difference.
- Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking for even crisp.
- Use fresh ginger and garlic — the flavor is 10x better than powders.
- Double the sauce if you like things extra saucy (I always do).
- Let sauce thicken slowly — don’t rush it or it’ll get gloopy.
🛠 Tools You’ll Need
- Air fryer
- Medium saucepan
- Small mixing bowls
- Silicone spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Tofu press or paper towels + heavy object
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- No hoisin? Use more soy sauce with a dash of peanut butter.
- Low-sodium soy sauce if watching salt.
- Honey instead of maple syrup — both work!
- Gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
⏰ Make Ahead Tips
- Press and cube tofu in the morning or night before.
- Make the sauce and store in a jar in the fridge for up to 4 days.
🧑🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Press and Cube the Tofu
Pat dry a 14 oz block of extra-firm tofu. Press it for at least 15 minutes, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
Step 2: Season and Coat the Tofu
In a bowl, mix the tofu cubes with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, and 1 tbsp cornstarch. Toss until all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 3: Air Fry the Tofu
Place tofu in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a saucepan, add 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp hoisin sauce, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp water, 1 tsp cornstarch, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tsp grated ginger. Stir and simmer over medium heat until thick, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Toss the Tofu in Sauce
Add the crispy tofu to the pan and toss until each piece is coated in the sticky sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Serve tofu over rice, sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
🥡 Leftovers & Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer for 5 minutes to crisp back up.
- Don’t freeze—sauce texture gets weird.
❓ FAQ
Q: Can I bake the tofu instead of air frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: What if I don’t have hoisin sauce?
You can sub with soy sauce + a little peanut butter or even ketchup in a pinch.
Q: Is this good for meal prep?
Totally! Just keep sauce and tofu separate until ready to serve.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
Yes! Add 1 tsp of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
💬 Let’s Wrap It Up
This Air Fryer Tofu with Sticky Sesame Sauce is the kind of dish that’ll have you licking the bowl—it’s that good. It’s simple, flavorful, and honestly… pretty addictive. If you give it a try, leave a comment below! I’d love to hear how it went or help if you have any questions. Happy cooking!