Air Fryer Salt & Pepper Tofu

For the Tofu

• 16 oz extra firm tofu, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1/2 tsp coarse sea salt
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 1/4 tsp ginger powder
• 1/4 tsp Sichuan peppercorn powder
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 4 tbsp potato starch (or tapioca starch), divided
• Avocado oil spray, for the air fryer basket

For the Salt & Pepper Seasoning

• 2 spring onions, finely chopped
• 4 large garlic cloves (about 0.5 oz), finely minced
• 1 fresno chili pepper, seeds removed, finely chopped
• 1/2 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tsp coarse sea salt
• 1/4 tsp five spice powder
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp Sichuan peppercorn powder

Directions

• Drain the tofu and pat dry with paper towels. Slice into cubes slightly larger than 1/2-inch, then pat dry again.
• Combine the tofu seasonings (salt through Sichuan peppercorn powder) in a large bowl. Add the cubed tofu and gently toss. Add the oil, then sprinkle in the starch 2 tbsp at a time until all sides are evenly coated.
• Preheat the air fryer, then spray the basket with oil. Spread the tofu evenly with space between the pieces. Air fry at 400 F for 10 minutes. Flip carefully, spray with more oil, and air fry 5 minutes more until golden and crispy.
• Meanwhile, chop the spring onions, garlic, and chili pepper, reserving some for garnish. Combine the salt & pepper seasoning spices separately.
• Heat the 1/2 tbsp oil in a preheated saute pan over medium heat. Saute the aromatics for 1 minute with a pinch of salt.
• Add the cooked tofu and sprinkle over half the salt & pepper seasoning. Toss for 30 seconds.
• Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with the reserved scallions and chili, sprinkle with extra seasoning, and serve immediately with more on the side.

No tofu pressing needed. From ChihYu Chiang / I Heart Umami on Instagram; full recipe at iheartumami.com.