Crispy Lemon Pepper Tofu (Air Fryer)

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This crispy lemon pepper tofu in the air fryer is a delicious weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make in the air fryer and the crispy tofu is coated in a flavorful lemon pepper sauce that is vibrant with a little spice.

What you’ll love about this recipe:

EASY – This is a simple tofu recipe that is also great for meal prep (just double the recipe to have a big batch and pair with some rice and veggies and you are good to go!)
FLAVORFUL– Crispy tofu coated in a mouthwatering lemon pepper marinade
HEALTHY – This recipe is oil-free and high in vegan protein (17 grams of protein per serving)
VEGAN, DAIRY-FREE, & GLUTEN-FREE (with use of tamari or coconut aminos)

This vegan lemon pepper tofu is packed with so much flavor! You will love the peppery lemon sauce that coats the crispy tofu. This is a simple dish you can make for any weeknight in less than 30 minutes. I love to garnish it with some lemon slices to make it look even more vibrant!

Did you know you can transform your tofu into pillowy soft gnocchi? Try out this Tofu Gnocchi with Sundried Tomato Sauce that’s high protein and delicious!

You can also crumble tofu to make delicious tofu and black bean tacos or enjoy it in a stir fry like this tofu teriyaki stir fry.

What is Lemon Pepper Seasoning?

Lemon pepper seasoning is a popular spice blend that combines the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon with the warm, spicy kick of black pepper. It typically consists of dried lemon zest or lemon peel, coarsely ground black pepper, and sometimes additional ingredients such as salt, garlic powder, or other herbs and spices. You can find it at nearly every grocery store near the other spices.

Ingredients:

This lemon pepper tofu has simple ingredients you can find at nearly every grocery store.

Extra-firm tofu: You just need one block of extra firm tofu (unless you want to double this recipe). This type of tofu works best for stir fry, noodle dishes, bowls, and more. It has a chewy texture and gets crispy on the outside (like in my delish sticky tofu!). I still recommend pressing extra-firm tofu.
Cornstarch: This is used to thicken our sauce. Mix it with water before adding to the pan to prevent clumps.
Lemon pepper seasoning: You can find this near the spices at nearly every grocery store.
Maple syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness to the sauce that compliments the lemon and soy sauce.
Fresh lemon juice: This will add so much vibrant flavor to this lemon pepper tofu.
Soy sauce: This pairs well with the lemon pepper flavor to create a slight umami flavor.

Equipment

Tofu press (optional)
Large bowl
Air fryer – my favorite way to cook tofu!

Instructions

Step 1: If you haven’t yet, press the tofu for 20 minutes with a tofu press or wrap in paper towel and place a heavy object on top to remove excess water.

Preheat air fryer at 400F for 5 minutes. Cut tofu into 1.5-2 inch cubes. Air fry at 400F for 5 minutes, shake, then air fry again for another 6-8 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.

*Air frying time may vary based on size of tofu and air fryer.

Step 2: In a large shallow pan over low-medium heat, add soy sauce, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, and 1/4 cup water. In a separate small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with 1/4 cup water. Add the cornstarch mixture to the pan and mix together. Stir sauce every 30 seconds for 3-5 minutes until it begins to thicken. *FYI It will thicken more after you take it off the heat so don’t let it get too thick and goopy!

Step 3: Add cooked tofu to the pan and stir until combined.

Step 4: Serve the marinated tofu with rice, noodles, vegetables, or whatever you would like!

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat the in the microwave or stovetop. (FYI the next day the tofu won’t be as crispy).

What to serve with lemon pepper tofu:

I love to serve this either as a stir fry or a grain bowl!

Roasted vegetables such as green beans, broccoli and zucchini, asparagus, and more
Steamed veggies (find recipes in this list of 20+ vegan steamer recipes)
Whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, wild rice, farro (or what favorite grain you like!)

FAQ

Is lemon pepper tofu spicy?

Lemon pepper tofu typically has a mild to medium level of spiciness, depending on the amount of black pepper used in the seasoning. While black pepper can add a hint of heat, it is not typically overpowering. We only use 1 tsp of lemon pepper seasoning which provides a slight spiciness that is not too strong.
You can add more lemon pepper seasoning if you prefer spicier tofu.

What can I serve with lemon pepper tofu?

This dish is great with a variety of sides including a grain (white or brown rice, quinoa, farro, or even noodles), vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, red pepper, and more), avocado, herbs, and more.
Check out this amazing list of what to serve with tofu for lots of ideas!

Why isn’t my tofu crispy?

There could be a variety of reasons. First, make sure you use extra-firm tofu to get the best texture. I also strongly recommend you press this for at least 20 minutes. If your tofu is too wet when it goes in the air fryer, it will stick together and not obtain a crispy texture. You also need to preheat your air fryer for 5 minutes so it’s hot when you add the tofu. Air fry at a high temperature (400F) for crispy tofu. Adjust cooking time as needed to get the crispy texture.

Pro Tips

Use extra firm tofu for better texture and to prevent it from becoming too soft in the air fryer.
Watch your sauce closely so it doesn’t get too thick and goopy. Cook on low-medium heat and stir often.
Preheating the air fryer helps to cook the tofu faster. This is not a requirement but I think it makes the tofu crispier!

Other amazing tofu recipes:

▶︎Try out this amazing Miso Glazed Tofu for another delicious recipe!