Crispy Lemon Pepper Tofu (Air Fryer)

5 from 52 votes

This crispy lemon pepper tofu is coated in a mouthwatering homemade lemon pepper sauce. Pair with your favorite grain and veggie.

Prep Time10

Cook Time12

Total Time22

Course: Dinner, Lunch

Servings:

Calories: 159kcal

Author: Allie Petersen

Ingredients

1 block extra firm tofu drained and pressed

Lemon Pepper Sauce

1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoon soy sauce
1.5 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
2 tsp maple syrup
1 tablespoon corn starch
½ cup water split

Instructions

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.
*Air frying time may vary based on size of tofu and air fryer.
In a large shallow pan over low-medium heat, add soy sauce, lemon juice, maple syrup, lemon pepper seasoning, and ¼ cup water. In a separate small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with ¼ 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!
Add cooked tofu to the pan and stir until combined.
Serve with rice, noodles, vegetables, or whatever you would like!

Notes

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!

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 teaspoon 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.

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.

Nutrition