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Bang Bang Tofu bowl with crispy tofu, rice, purple cabbage, carrots, and cucumber topped with creamy spicy sauce

Bang Bang Tofu (Air Fryer or Pan Fried)


  • Author: Omar
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 3-4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Crispy Bang Bang Tofu tossed in a creamy, sweet-spicy sauce and served over rice with fresh veggies. This easy air fryer or pan fried recipe is perfect for quick, flavor-packed weeknight dinners.


Ingredients

For the Tofu:

  • 1 (14–16 oz) block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1–2 tablespoons cornstarch

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise

  • 1 ½ tablespoon sweet Thai chili sauce

  • 1 ½ teaspoon Sriracha

  • ½ teaspoon rice vinegar

Optional for Serving:

  • Cooked jasmine or white rice

  • Shredded purple cabbage

  • Julienned carrots

  • Sliced cucumber

  • Avocado

  • Edamame

  • Sesame seeds

  • Lime wedges


Instructions

  1. Prep the Tofu:
    Press tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut or tear into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, toss with soy sauce and olive oil. Add cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

  2. Cook the Tofu (Air Fryer):
    Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Arrange tofu in a single layer. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy and golden.

  3. Cook the Tofu (Pan Fried):
    Heat 1–2 tablespoons oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add tofu in a single layer. Cook for 8–12 minutes, flipping occasionally until golden and crispy on all sides.

  4. Make the Sauce:
    In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar until smooth.

  5. Combine:
    Transfer cooked tofu to a bowl and toss with half of the sauce until coated.

  6. Assemble:
    Divide rice into bowls. Top with tofu, cabbage, carrots, cucumber, and desired toppings. Drizzle remaining sauce and finish with sesame seeds and lime.

Notes

Pressing tofu is key for achieving a crispy texture.

Do not overcrowd the pan or air fryer to avoid steaming.

Add sauce after cooking to keep tofu crispy.

Adjust Sriracha for your preferred spice level.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Air Fryer / Pan Fried
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 480 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 5 mg