Crispy Tofu Gangjeong (Air Fryer Recipe)
Crispy and Sweet-Spicy Tofu Gangjeong Made in the Air Fryer, Loved by Kids
Try this special tofu dish, Tofu Gangjeong, made easily in your air fryer! It’s perfect for children who are picky eaters. The crispy exterior, soft interior, and the delightful sweet and spicy sauce make it a winner. Cooking it in the air fryer makes it healthier and more convenient.
Main Ingredients- 1 block of firm tofu (firm or pan-frying tofu recommended)
- 2 Tbsp starch powder (cornstarch or potato starch)
- A little sliced almonds (for garnish, optional)
Sweet and Spicy Sauce- 1 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp tomato ketchup
- 1 Tbsp plum syrup or corn syrup
- 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp water
- 1/3 Tbsp sesame oil
- 3-4 whole garlic cloves (optional, for enhanced flavor)
- 1 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp tomato ketchup
- 1 Tbsp plum syrup or corn syrup
- 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp water
- 1/3 Tbsp sesame oil
- 3-4 whole garlic cloves (optional, for enhanced flavor)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Pat the tofu block thoroughly dry with paper towels. Then, cut it into bite-sized cubes (about 2-3 cm). Removing excess moisture is key to achieving a crispier texture when frying or baking.
Step 2
Place the cubed tofu and 2 Tbsp of starch powder into a resealable plastic bag. Seal the bag and shake gently to evenly coat each piece of tofu with the starch. A thin coating of starch will make the tofu extra crispy.
Step 3
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3-5 minutes. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper and arrange the starch-coated tofu in a single layer, ensuring pieces do not overlap. Air fry at 180°C for 10 minutes for the first round.
Step 4
After 10 minutes, carefully remove the air fryer basket and gently toss the tofu to ensure even cooking. Return the basket to the air fryer and continue cooking at 180°C for another 7 minutes. If using whole garlic cloves, add them now to infuse flavor.
Step 5
After the additional 7 minutes, toss the tofu once more. Air fry at 180°C for a final 5 minutes. This multi-stage frying ensures the tofu pieces become evenly crispy on all sides.
Step 6
Check if the tofu is golden brown and crispy. It’s ready when it looks nicely browned and firm.
Step 7
While the tofu is in its final air frying stage, prepare the sauce. In a small pot or pan, combine all sauce ingredients (gochujang, ketchup, plum syrup, soy sauce, and water). Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Once it starts to bubble, cook for about 1-2 minutes more to thicken slightly. Be careful not to burn the sauce.
Step 8
Add the crispy fried tofu and garlic cloves to the prepared sauce. Gently toss everything together until the tofu is well coated with the sauce. Ensure every piece is evenly covered.
Step 9
Finally, add the coarsely chopped sliced almonds and mix lightly. Drizzle with a little sesame oil for an extra nutty aroma. Your delicious Tofu Gangjeong is ready to be enjoyed!
