Author: Sharon

Modified Recipe (now oilfree!)

Here’s how to convert your recipe to **oil-free + air fryer** while keeping that crispy, flavorful finish. (Oven version & soy curls version are both at bottom.)

**Ingredients (modified marinade)**

* 1 lb super firm tofu (same as yours)

**Marinade (oil-free):**

* 2 Tbsp soy sauce
* 2 Tbsp water *(we’ve replaced the original oil with extra liquid here)*
* 1 tsp vinegar
* 2 Tbsp nutritional yeast
* 1/2 tsp garlic powder
* 1/2 tsp onion powder
* 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
* Salt & pepper (to taste)

👉 *Optional for crispiness:*

* 1–2 tsp cornstarch or arrowroot (light coating before air frying)

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### **Instructions (air fryer method)**

1. **Prep the tofu**
   Use super firm tofu (no pressing needed). Pat dry and break into bite-sized chunks.

2. **Make the marinade**
   Whisk or blend everything together. Since there’s no oil, blending helps it coat more evenly.

3. **Coat the tofu**
   Toss tofu gently in the marinade until well coated.

Let it sit for **10–20 minutes** (optional but improves flavor).

4. **Optional crisp boost**
   Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu and toss lightly. This helps mimic the crispiness oil usually provides.

5. **Air fry**

   * Preheat air fryer to **375°F (190°C)**
   * Arrange tofu in a single layer (don’t overcrowd)
   * Cook for **12–15 minutes**, shaking halfway through

6. **Finish & flavor**

   * Add salt/pepper or extra seasoning after cooking
   * Toss with BBQ, buffalo, or teriyaki sauce if desired

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### 🔥 Tips for best results

* No oil means slightly less browning—but the cornstarch helps a lot
* If your air fryer tends to stick, use **parchment liner made for air fryers** (no oil spray needed)
* For extra chew/crisp: cook 2–3 more minutes at the end

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Conventional Oven Option:

Bake at 425°F (220°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet. After marinating, toss tofu with 1–2 tsp cornstarch for better crisping, then spread in a single layer. Bake 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until browned and slightly crispy; broil 2–3 minutes at the end if you want extra crisp edges.

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Soy Curl Option:

Rehydrate soy curls in hot water or broth for 10 minutes, then drain and squeeze out excess liquid. Toss with the same oil-free marinade (reduce added water slightly since they hold moisture), and optionally sprinkle with a little cornstarch for texture. Air fry at 375°F for 8–12 minutes (or bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes), shaking or flipping halfway, until lightly crisped.