Crispy Air-Fried Tofu Wraps with Cabbage Slaw and Peanut Sauce
Crispy air-fried tofu wraps offer a healthy, plant-based meal option packed with flavor. This recipe combines golden tofu, fresh cabbage slaw, and a creamy peanut sauce for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Air frying keeps the tofu crunchy without excess oil, making it ideal for vegan diets or those seeking low-calorie meals. You’ll love how easy these wraps come together using simple ingredients like firm tofu, tortillas, and everyday veggies.
Why Choose Air-Fried Tofu Wraps?
Air-fried tofu provides a crispy exterior and tender inside, thanks to the hot air circulation in your air fryer. This method cuts down on frying oil while preserving nutrients in tofu, a soy-based protein source. Paired with cabbage slaw, these wraps add crunch and freshness from shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing.
The peanut sauce ties everything with its nutty, slightly sweet profile, using natural peanut butter and soy sauce. This combination makes the dish versatile for vegetarians or anyone exploring meatless meals. Each wrap delivers balanced nutrition: protein from tofu, fiber from veggies, and healthy fats from peanuts.
Ingredients for Crispy Air-Fried Tofu Wraps
Gather these items to serve 4 wraps. Adjust quantities for larger batches.
Tofu and Wrap Components
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cabbage Slaw Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt to taste
Peanut Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2-3 tablespoons water (to thin)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon sriracha for heat
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Prepare each part separately for best results. Start with the tofu, then move to slaw and sauce. Total time: 30 minutes.
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Press the tofu to remove excess water, which helps it crisp up. Wrap the block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object, like a cast-iron skillet, on top for 15 minutes.
Cut the pressed tofu into 1/2-inch cubes or strips. In a bowl, toss the tofu pieces with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it marinate for 5-10 minutes while you preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Air Fry the Tofu
Arrange the marinated tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The tofu should turn golden and crispy on the edges.
Check for doneness; if needed, add 2 more minutes. Remove and set aside. This step creates the star of your wraps: crispy, seasoned tofu bites ready for assembly.
Step 3: Make the Cabbage Slaw
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups shredded green cabbage, 1 cup shredded red cabbage, and 1 julienned carrot. These veggies provide color and texture to your vegan wraps.
For the dressing, whisk together 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon honey, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Pour over the cabbage mixture and toss well. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soften slightly while flavors blend. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
Step 4: Prepare the Peanut Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix 1/2 cup peanut butter with 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and 1 minced garlic clove. Add 2-3 tablespoons water gradually, stirring until the sauce reaches a drizzle consistency.
If you want a spicy kick, stir in 1 teaspoon sriracha. This creamy peanut sauce complements the tofu and slaw, adding a savory depth to every bite.
Step 5: Assemble the Wraps
Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side, or microwave them wrapped in a damp towel for 20 seconds. This prevents cracking.
Lay out a tortilla and add a handful of cabbage slaw in the center. Top with 4-5 pieces of crispy air-fried tofu. Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of peanut sauce over the filling.
Fold the bottom of the tortilla up, then fold in the sides and roll tightly to enclose the ingredients. Repeat for all wraps. For extra flair, slice in half diagonally before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Tips
Serve these tofu wraps immediately for maximum crispiness. Pair with a side of fresh cucumber slices or edamame for a complete meal. For meal prep, store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat tofu in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 minutes.
To boost nutrition, add avocado slices for healthy fats or cilantro for herbal notes. If you’re new to air frying, note that models vary; adjust time based on your device. This recipe yields about 400 calories per wrap, making it a light yet filling option.
Customize for preferences: use almond butter in the sauce for a nut-free version, or swap cabbage for lettuce in the slaw. These adjustments keep the dish accessible for various dietary needs.
Nutritional Benefits of Tofu Wraps with Peanut Sauce
Tofu serves as an excellent plant-based protein, offering 10 grams per serving in these wraps. Cabbage slaw contributes vitamins A and C from the colorful veggies, supporting immune health. Peanuts in the sauce provide monounsaturated fats, which promote heart health.
This meal is low in saturated fats and cholesterol-free, aligning with clean eating goals. The air-frying technique reduces calorie intake compared to deep-frying, while maintaining flavor through seasonings like garlic and ginger.
FAQs
Can I bake the tofu instead of air frying?
Yes, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the marinated tofu on a lined sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. It won’t be as crispy but still works well.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be; use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free tortillas. Check labels for hidden gluten in peanut butter.
How do I store leftover peanut sauce?
Keep it in a jar in the fridge for up to a week. Stir in a splash of water if it thickens before using.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
Pan-fry the tofu in a non-stick skillet with a little oil over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until golden.
Can I make these wraps ahead of time?
Assemble just before eating to keep the tortillas from getting soggy. Prep the slaw and sauce up to a day in advance.
Are there substitutions for cabbage in the slaw?
Try shredded lettuce or kale for a similar crunch. Adjust the dressing to match the milder flavor.
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo: A Quick and Comforting Pasta Dish - October 13, 2025
- Triple Layer Nutella Mousse Cups: A Decadent Dessert Recipe - October 13, 2025
- Air Fryer Churros with Cinnamon Sugar and Homemade Chocolate Dip - October 13, 2025
