Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Tofu is a simple and delicious recipe perfect for a quick, healthy meal or snack. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this tofu is packed with flavor thanks to a savory marinade. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Healthy and nutritious: Packed with protein and cooked with minimal oil.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Adapt the seasoning to your taste.
- Perfectly crispy: The air fryer ensures even cooking with a crisp exterior.
- Great for any occasion: Works as a snack, appetizer, or main dish.
What Is Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Tofu?
This recipe features tofu marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, garlic, and spices, then air-fried to golden perfection. The result is a delicious, crispy tofu that pairs well with salads, rice, noodles, or dipping sauces.
Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Tofu Ingredients
- 400g (14 oz) firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds

Other Recipes
Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Chicken Kiev
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Tofu
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
- Drain the tofu and press it between two plates with a weight on top for 15 minutes to remove excess water. Cut the tofu into cubes or triangles.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, olive oil, sesame oil (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chili flakes.
Step 3: Marinate the Tofu
- Add the tofu cubes to the marinade, gently tossing to coat. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes for the flavors to absorb.
Step 4: Coat with Cornstarch
- Sprinkle the cornstarch over the marinated tofu and toss gently to create a light coating.
Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3-5 minutes.
Step 6: Cook the Tofu
- Arrange the tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tofu is golden and crispy.
Step 7: Serve
- Transfer the tofu to a serving plate and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a meal.
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Tofu
- Rice or noodles: Pair with steamed rice or stir-fried noodles for a hearty meal.
- Salad: Toss the tofu into a fresh green or Asian-style salad.
- Dipping sauces: Serve with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or peanut sauce.
- Vegetable stir-fry: Add the tofu to sautéed veggies for a complete dish.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Tofu
- Press the tofu thoroughly: Removing excess water ensures crispy tofu.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Cook in batches if needed for even crispiness.
- Use firm or extra-firm tofu: Softer tofu may break apart during cooking.
- Experiment with spices: Add curry powder, cumin, or nutritional yeast for different flavors.
- Shake the basket: Tossing the tofu halfway ensures even cooking.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Tofu
- Sweet and spicy: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade.
- Herbed tofu: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme.
- Asian-inspired: Add grated ginger and rice vinegar to the marinade.
- Cheesy flavor: Toss with nutritional yeast before air frying.
- Extra crispy: Double coat the tofu with cornstarch for a crunchier texture.
How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Tofu?
- Refrigerate properly: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for later: Freeze cooked tofu in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Tofu?
- In the air fryer: Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 3-5 minutes to regain crispiness.
- In the oven: Warm at 175°C (350°F) for 10 minutes.
- In the microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, though the tofu may lose its crispiness.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
How do I make tofu crispy in an air fryer?
To make tofu crispy, press it thoroughly to remove excess water, coat it lightly in cornstarch, and cook in a single layer in the air fryer. Shaking the basket halfway ensures even crispiness.
Can I use silken tofu for this recipe?
Silken tofu is not recommended for air frying as it is too delicate and may fall apart. Use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best results.
How long should I marinate tofu for the best flavor?
Marinate the tofu for at least 10 minutes, but for deeper flavor, allow it to sit in the marinade for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
What dipping sauces go well with air fryer tofu?
Sweet chili sauce, peanut sauce, soy sauce, or a tangy sesame dressing pair wonderfully with air fryer tofu for added flavor.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Tofu is a quick and versatile recipe that delivers crispy, flavorful tofu with minimal effort. Whether enjoyed as a snack or part of a meal, this dish is sure to please tofu lovers and skeptics alike. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of flavor and texture!
Print
Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Tofu Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Appetizer/Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This recipe features tofu marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, garlic, and spices, then air-fried to golden perfection. The result is a delicious, crispy tofu that pairs well with salads, rice, noodles, or dipping sauces.
Ingredients
-
- 400g (14 oz) firm tofu
-
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
-
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
-
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
-
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
-
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
-
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
Optional Garnishes:
-
- Chopped green onions
-
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
-
- Drain the tofu and press it between two plates with a weight on top for 15 minutes to remove excess water. Cut the tofu into cubes or triangles.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
-
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, olive oil, sesame oil (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chili flakes.
Step 3: Marinate the Tofu
-
- Add the tofu cubes to the marinade, gently tossing to coat. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes for the flavors to absorb.
Step 4: Coat with Cornstarch
-
- Sprinkle the cornstarch over the marinated tofu and toss gently to create a light coating.
Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer
-
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3-5 minutes.
Step 6: Cook the Tofu
-
- Arrange the tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tofu is golden and crispy.
Step 7: Serve
-
- Transfer the tofu to a serving plate and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a meal.