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Preheating your air fryer is an essential step that should not be overlooked when making Spicy Air-Fried Buffalo Tofu. Preheating ensures that the cooking environment is hot enough to achieve that coveted crispy texture. The hot air circulation in the air fryer works best when the appliance is already at the right temperature, allowing the tofu to sear quickly and lock in moisture while forming a delightful crust.

Spicy Air-Fried Buffalo Tofu

Discover the joy of plant-based eating with this Spicy Air-Fried Buffalo Tofu recipe! Perfect for game days or gatherings, this dish combines crispy tofu with bold buffalo flavors, making it a hit even among non-vegetarians. Using the air fryer dramatically cuts down on oil while ensuring a crunchy texture. Packed with protein and essential nutrients, this healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings is both delicious and easy to make. Boost your meals with this scrumptious recipe!
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Ingredients
  

1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed

1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour if desired)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat)

1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Cooking spray or olive oil for air frying

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Tofu: Start by draining the tofu and pressing it to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or triangles.

    Make the Coating: In a bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a seasoned flour mixture.

      Prepare Plant-Based Milk Bath: In a separate shallow bowl, pour the plant-based milk.

        Dredge the Tofu: Dip each tofu piece into the plant-based milk, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat evenly in the seasoned flour mixture. Ensure a consistent coating on each piece.

          Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the tofu starts cooking immediately and helps achieve a crispy texture.

            Air-Fry the Tofu: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with olive oil. Place the coated tofu pieces in a single layer in the basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.

              Cooking Time: Air-fry the tofu for 12-15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping. The tofu should be golden brown and crispy when done.

                Prepare Buffalo Sauce: While the tofu is air-frying, heat the buffalo sauce in a small pan over low heat until warmed through.

                  Toss in Sauce: Once the tofu is crispy, remove it from the air fryer and place it in a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm buffalo sauce over the tofu, tossing gently until all the pieces are evenly coated.

                    Serve: Plate the spicy buffalo tofu and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your favorite dipping sauce (like ranch or blue cheese, if desired).

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings