Creating delicious Air Fryer Tofu is simple when you follow these easy steps:

1. Drain and Press Tofu: Remove the tofu from its packaging, drain the liquid, and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. Place something heavy on top to press out excess moisture for about 15–20 minutes.

2. Cut into Cubes: Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1 inch each.

3. Prepare Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.

4. Marinate Tofu: Gently toss the cubed tofu in the marinade until evenly coated. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

5. Coat with Cornstarch: Sprinkle the cornstarch over the marinated tofu and gently toss again until all pieces are coated. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.

6. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

7. Arrange Tofu in Air Fryer: Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.

8. Air Fry Tofu: Cook the tofu in the air fryer for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

9. Check for Crispiness: After 15 minutes, check the tofu for desired crispiness. If you’d like it to be more golden and crispy, air fry for an additional 2 to 5 minutes.

10. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the tofu from the air fryer and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve with your choice of dipping sauce or over a bed of rice or vegetables.