This irresistible Sticky Ginger Tofu brings a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors to your table in just 27 minutes. A protein-packed vegetarian dish that’s both healthy and satisfying, it delivers bold Asian-inspired taste while keeping the calories surprisingly low at just 11kcal per serving.
The ginger-infused sauce creates a glossy coating that transforms ordinary tofu into a mouthwatering main course – ideal for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep adventures.
Ingredients for Sticky Ginger Tofu
- Tofu: 1 block firm or extra firm, essential for achieving the perfect texture
- Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons (can substitute with Coconut Aminos)
- Garlic: 1 teaspoon minced, adds aromatic depth
- Fresh Ginger: 1 tablespoon diced, brings zesty Asian flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Tofu: Press tofu for 12 minutes, adjusting press knobs every 3-4 minutes for optimal moisture removal
- Cube and Season: After pressing, cut tofu into uniform cubes. Place in a gallon-sized bag with soy sauce, minced garlic, and diced ginger
- Marinate: Gently shake the bag to ensure all tofu cubes are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture
- Air Fry: Set air fryer to 370°F (187°C) and cook for 12 minutes. For crispier results, add a few extra minutes
- Serve: Portion the cooked tofu onto plates or into meal prep containers. Pairs wonderfully with air-fried green beans
Recipe Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Nutritional Info (per serving): 11 calories, 1g carbs, 2g protein, minimal fat
Pressing and Marinating Tips
Getting your tofu nice and firm is the secret to amazing texture! While the recipe calls for 12 minutes of pressing, you can press it longer if you have time – up to 30 minutes works great. No tofu press? No problem! Just wrap your tofu in paper towels and put a heavy cookbook on top. For the marinade, make sure to give the bag a gentle shake every few minutes to help the flavors sink in.
Air Fryer Success
The magic happens at 370°F! Your tofu cubes will get golden and crispy on the outside while staying tender inside. A quick tip: shake the basket halfway through cooking to help them crisp evenly. If you love extra-crispy tofu, add 2-3 minutes to the cooking time. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Serving Ideas
This sticky ginger tofu is so tasty over a bowl of steamed rice! Try it with air fryer green beans like the recipe suggests, or pair it with broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. Want to make it into a complete meal? Add some sesame seeds on top and serve with a side of quick-pickled cucumbers. It’s also perfect for meal prep – just portion it out with your favorite veggies for easy lunches.
Storage and Reheating
Keep your cooked tofu fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 350°F – this brings back that amazing crispy texture! You can also microwave it for about 1 minute, though it won’t be as crispy.
Sticky Ginger Tofu
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Tofu Press
- Gallon-sized Ziplock Bag
Ingredients
- 1 block Tofu firm or extra firm
- 3 tbsp Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos
- 1 tsp Minced Garlic
- 1 tbsp Ginger diced and fresh
Instructions
- Press your tofu for 12 minutes. Tightening the knobs on the Tofu Press every 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the tofu block from the press, cut tofu into cubes. Put cubes into a gallon sized baggie, add soy sauce, garlic and ginger. Shake the baggie to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Set the air fryer temperature for 370f/187c. Turn on the Air Fryer for 12 minutes. (You may need to add a few minutes if you like crispier tofu).
- When the tofu is done cooking, divide equally among plates or food prep storage containers. This tofu serves well with air fryer green beans.
