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Bang Bang Tofu with Crispy Coating and Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe

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4.2 from 82 reviews

This Bang Bang Tofu recipe offers a crispy, flavorful twist on the vegan favorite using air frying for a delightfully golden exterior. Coated in a tangy, sweet chili mayo sauce and served over rice with green beans, it’s a quick, satisfying dish perfect for a wholesome weeknight meal.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Tofu

  • 1 block extra firm tofu (high protein tofu recommended, e.g., Trader Joe’s)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil

For the Sauce

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sweet chili sauce
  • ½ tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, grated

For Serving and Garnish

  • Sesame seeds and/or green onions for garnish
  • 1-2 cups cooked rice
  • 12 ounces green beans, steamed or sautéed

Instructions

  1. Prep Tofu: Pull the tofu into craggly, bite-sized chunks with your hands to create an authentic texture.
  2. Coat Tofu: Toss the tofu chunks with cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, and salt using your hands for even coverage. Then, toss again with soy sauce and oil to coat thoroughly.
  3. Air Fry Tofu: Place the coated tofu in the air fryer and cook at 350°F for 10 minutes. Remove, shake or stir the tofu to ensure even cooking, then air fry for an additional 5 minutes at 375°F until crispy and golden brown.
  4. Make Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and grated garlic until smooth and well combined.
  5. Sauce Tofu: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the crisped tofu. Pour in ¼ cup of the sauce and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce caramelize and glaze the tofu. Repeat adding sauce if desired to deepen flavor.
  6. Serve: Serve the glazed tofu over cooked rice. Drizzle or dollop the remaining sauce on top, thinning with a tablespoon or two of water if needed. Garnish with sesame seeds and/or sliced green onions. Pair with steamed or sautéed green beans for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Use extra-firm, high-protein tofu for best texture and firmness.
  • Air frying creates a crispy exterior without excess oil, making the dish healthier.
  • Adjust the sweetness and spice of the sauce by varying the amount of sweet chili sauce or adding chili flakes if desired.
  • To make the sauce thinner for drizzling, stir in a small amount of water gradually.
  • This recipe pairs well with steamed greens or other favorite vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian Fusion
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/bang-bang-tofu-with-crispy-coating-and-sweet-chili-sauce-recipe/