Tofu and Tempeh in the Air Fryer

Tofu and tempeh are two of the most versatile plant proteins available today. Packed with nutrition and easy to flavour, they can be transformed into golden, crispy meals with minimal effort — especially when you have an air fryer at hand.

This blog shows you how to cook tofu and tempeh in your air fryer. You’ll find easy techniques, tasty ideas, and helpful tips. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to make delicious, high-protein plant-based meals.

If you’re new to air frying or looking for a tasty tofu recipe or crispy tempeh ideas, you’ve come to the right place.

Why Tofu and Tempeh Work Brilliantly in the Air Fryer

Both tofu and tempeh benefit massively from the rapid air circulation of an air fryer.

Benefits include:

• A crisp exterior with little or no added oil
• Fast cooking times compared to ovens or stovetops
• Even browning without constant flipping
• Retention of a tender, juicy centre

These features make the air fryer great for quick, high-protein, plant-based meals.

Choosing the Right Type of Tofu

Not all tofu is created equal, and choosing the right variety matters when using an air fryer.

Best Tofu for Air Frying

• Firm or extra-firm tofu: Holds shape well and crisps up beautifully
• Pressed tofu: Even better texture for frying, absorbs marinades quickly
• Avoid silken tofu: Too soft for air frying, better suited to sauces and smoothies

If your tofu feels too wet straight from the pack, press it gently to remove excess water. This ensures a better crisp without needing heavy coatings.

Preparing Tofu for the Air Fryer

Good preparation is the key to perfect results.

Simple Preparation Steps

• Drain and press the tofu for at least 20 minutes
• Cut into even-sized cubes, slabs, or sticks
• Marinate or season lightly for added flavour
• Toss lightly in cornstarch or arrowroot powder for extra crispiness

Preparation ensures crispy outsides and tender insides without deep frying.

Crafting the Perfect Air Fryer Tofu Recipe

Getting it right does not require complicated techniques. Simple combinations of flavours and textures deliver the best results.

Basic Air Fryer Tofu Method

1. Press and cube your tofu.
2. Toss in a light marinade or seasoning.
3. Preheat your air fryer (if required) to 200°C.
4. Place tofu pieces in a single layer.
5. Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway for even browning.

The result? Crispy, golden tofu is perfect for bowls, wraps, salads, or snacking straight from the basket.

Why Tempeh Is the Next Step for Air Fryer Cooking

Tempeh often gets less attention than tofu, but it deserves a starring role in your kitchen.

Made from fermented soybeans, tempeh offers:

• Higher protein content than tofu
• A firmer, chewier texture
• A naturally nutty, savoury flavour

Its structure makes it ideal for creating a crispy tempeh air fryer masterpiece with little effort.

For beginners, our Getting Started with Your First Air Fryer guide is the perfect starting point.

Preparing Tempeh for the Best Air Fryer Results

Good preparation brings out the best in tempeh too.

Steps for Tasty Air-Fried Tempeh

• Slice tempeh into thin strips or cubes
• Steam briefly (5 minutes) to soften and reduce bitterness
• Marinate with bold flavours (soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic, or spices)
• Arrange evenly in the air fryer basket

Steaming is optional but highly recommended, especially if you’re new to cooking tempeh.

Simple Marinades to Transform Tofu and Tempeh

Bold, simple marinades take air-fried plant proteins to the next level.

Marinade Ideas

• Soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger
• BBQ sauce mixed with apple cider vinegar
• Tahini, lemon, and garlic blend
• Sweet chilli sauce with lime zest

Marinate for 20 to 30 minutes. Then, air fry for a deep, satisfying flavour that clings nicely to the crispy surfaces.

Building Balanced Plant-Based Meals Around Tofu and Tempeh

Protein is important, but so is building complete, satisfying plates.

Meal Ideas to Try

• Tofu bowls: Pair crispy cubes with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and tahini drizzle
• Tempeh wraps: Load tortillas with tempeh strips, slaw, and avocado
• Rice and beans: Top seasoned rice with spicy air-fried tofu for a protein boost
• Salad toppers: Toss crispy tempeh onto fresh greens with balsamic dressing

Air-fried tofu and tempeh add heft, crunch, and protein to countless plant-based meals.

Air Fryer Tips for Perfect Plant Protein Every Time

Avoid common pitfalls with a few simple habits.

Top Air Frying Tips

• Avoid overcrowding: Give each piece room to breathe for crispier results
• Flip or shake halfway: Ensures even cooking on all sides
• Use minimal oil: A light spray helps with crispness without excess fat
• Watch closely: Air fryers cook faster than ovens — check a few minutes early
• Rest before serving: Let tofu or tempeh sit for a minute to finish firming up

These tips guarantee golden, satisfying bites every time.

Budget-Friendly Ways to Maximise Plant Protein Meals

Sticking to a budget while eating more plant-based foods is easy with a little planning.

Saving Money with Tofu and Tempeh

• Buy bulk packs and freeze extras for later
• Marinate leftovers and use in new meals (salads, sandwiches, stir-fries)
• Combine with affordable staples like rice, pasta, and seasonal vegetables
• Plan weekly menus around multi-use ingredients

Creating plant protein air fryer meals doesn’t need to cost a fortune — just a little smart thinking.

Quick Tofu and Tempeh Snack Ideas

Air frying isn’t just for dinners. Quick snacks can be healthy and satisfying too.

Snack Suggestions

• Tofu “popcorn” bites dusted with nutritional yeast
• Tempeh strips glazed with maple and sriracha
• Air-fried tofu croutons for soups and salads
• Seasoned tempeh cubes tossed with BBQ spices

These small bites help keep your energy up between meals. They’re a great choice instead of processed snacks.

Experimenting with Global Flavours

One of the joys of cooking tofu and tempeh is how well they absorb bold, vibrant flavours from around the world.

Flavour Themes to Explore

• Thai: Coconut milk, lime, and chilli
• Mexican: Cumin, paprika, and coriander
• Mediterranean: Olive oil, oregano, and lemon
• Indian: Garam masala, turmeric, and cumin seeds

Trying different global influences keeps your meals exciting and varied without adding complexity.

Crispy, Delicious Plant Protein Made Simple

Mastering tofu and tempeh in your air fryer unlocks endless possibilities. From hearty dinners to tasty snacks, these adaptable ingredients make golden, satisfying meals with ease.

A basic air fryer tofu recipe or a fun crispy tempeh method is great for your weekly meal prep.

With some clever tricks and bold spices, your plant protein air fryer meals can be tasty and healthy.

Give it a try, have fun, and find out just how simple plant-based eating can be with an air fryer.

(Need more plant-powered meal inspiration? Visit: Affordable Vegan Air Fryer Recipes.)