Parmesan Crusted Tofu: A Crispy Delight from Your Air Fryer
If you're living in the UK and looking for a delightful vegetarian option packed with flavour, look no further than our Parmesan crusted tofu recipe. This dish is not only a healthy meal alternative but also showcases the versatility of tofu, making it irresistibly crispy and cheesy. It’s an excellent option for those keen on experimenting with meat alternatives or for anyone who simply enjoys a tasty, easy-to-prepare dish.
Why Choose Tofu?
Tofu, also known as bean curd, originates from China and has become a staple in various Asian cuisines. High in protein, it is an excellent meat substitute, offering numerous health benefits such as being low in calories and high in essential nutrients. The neutral taste of tofu allows it to absorb flavours from other ingredients, making it perfect for savory dishes like our Parmesan crusted recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 block of firm tofu (approximately 400g)
- 75g of grated Parmesan cheese
- 50g of breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons of plain flour
- 2 eggs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil
Equipment:
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork
- Shallow dish for coating
Preparation:
To ensure your Parmesan crusted tofu turns out crispy, it's essential to start with firm tofu. Here's how to prepare it:
- Drain and Press: Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain the water. To remove excess moisture, wrap the tofu block in a clean tea towel and place a heavy pan or books on top. Let it press for about 20 minutes.
- Cut the Tofu: Once pressed, cut the tofu into even slices or cubes, ensuring each piece is approximately 1 cm thick to guarantee even cooking.
Get Crusty:
Now it's time to add the delicious crust that makes this dish stand out.
- Mix Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the Coating Stations: Place the flour in one bowl, beat the eggs in another, and set the cheese and breadcrumb mixture in a final shallow dish.
- Coat the Tofu: Take each piece of tofu and coat it lightly with flour. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is well-covered. Finally, roll the tofu in the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture until it is completely coated.
Air Frying Perfection:
The air fryer is a fantastic kitchen tool that cooks food evenly while using less oil than traditional frying methods.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) and let it heat for around 5 minutes.
- Place the Tofu: Arrange the coated tofu pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space between them for even cooking. You might have to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook: Spray or lightly drizzle olive oil over the tofu to encourage crisping. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Check for Doneness: The tofu should be golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Serving Suggestions:
Parmesan crusted tofu is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:
- As a Main Dish: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- In a Sandwich: Place the tofu in a bun with fresh lettuce, slices of tomato, and a dollop of your favourite sauce.
- For Snacking: Serve with a delicious homemade dip, such as garlic aioli or spicy sriracha mayo.
Storing and Reheating:
If you have leftovers, store the Parmesan crusted tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C for about 5 minutes to regain that initial crispiness.
Conclusion:
With this Parmesan crusted tofu recipe, you're set to bring delicious, crispy, and healthy vegetarian meals to your dining table. Whether you're an experienced cook or a novice, this simple air fryer recipe will satisfy your cravings. Enjoy the texture, flavour, and versatility of this delightful dish, perfect for weekdays or special occasions alike!