Lightened-Up Air Fryer Teriyaki Tofu with Broccolini with Rice
Published Jun 26, 2025
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Looking for a healthier twist on a takeout classic? This easy Air Fryer Teriyaki Tofu with Broccolini with Rice is your new weeknight go-to. We’ve lightened up this flavorful dish by using San-J 50% Less Sodium Tamari and San-J Teriyaki Lite, making it a better-for-you option that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Plus, by cooking the tofu in the air fryer instead of pan-frying, we cut down on oil while still achieving that crispy, golden texture everyone loves. Paired with broccolini and served over rice, it’s a complete, satisfying vegetarian and gluten-free meal.
Table of Contents
While this is not a vegetarian or vegan food blog, we do love a good tofu recipe such as Crispy Rice with Szechuan Tofu and Tofu Veggie Buddha Bowls.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Well, first of all, this dish is fast, flavorful, and fuss-free. Ok, there is a little bit of time for the tofu to marinate, but you can do that the day before. Plus, all it does is sit there – no hands-on work. Whether you’re cooking for one or prepping a quick dinner for the family, this tofu and broccolini combo delivers major taste with minimal effort. Because it’s made in the air fryer, cleanup is a breeze, and you’ll avoid the mess of pan-frying.
Even better, the use of San-J’s lower-sodium tamari and teriyaki sauces makes this meal health-conscious without compromising flavor. The result? A balanced, satisfying dish that tastes indulgent—but isn’t.
What You’ll Need
Here’s a quick look at the wholesome, gluten-free ingredients that bring this dish together:
- Extra firm tofu
- San-J 50% Lite Tamari
- Rice vinegar
- Fresh grated ginger
- Cornstarch
- Avocado oil or gluten-free cooking spray
- San-J Teriyaki Lite Sauce
- Broccolini
- Water
- Furikake (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
As you can see, the ingredients are simple, accessible, and packed with flavor.
Tips and Variations
To ensure your tofu turns out perfectly, be sure to press out as much moisture as possible before marinating. That step is essential. Additionally, don’t skip the cornstarch—it gives the tofu its signature crunchy coating.
Want to mix things up? Here are a few easy swaps and add-ons:
- Vegetable swap: Try this with snap peas, asparagus, or baby bok choy in place of broccolini.
- Add more protein: Stir in shelled edamame or top with a soft-boiled egg for extra protein.
- Go spicy: Add a drizzle of gluten-free sriracha or chili crisp for a spicy finish.
- Serve differently: Instead of rice, serve the tofu and veggies over cauliflower rice or rice noodles.
No matter how you customize it, this dish is incredibly versatile and easy to adapt to your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular tamari or teriyaki sauce?
Absolutely! However, we recommend the lite versions to keep sodium in check without losing flavor.
Do I need an air fryer for this recipe?
The air fryer creates a wonderful texture with less oil, but if you don’t have one, you can bake the tofu in the oven at 400°F for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I meal prep this dish?
Definitely. The tofu holds up well for 3–4 days in the fridge, making it perfect for lunches. Keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to eat for the best texture.
Whether you’re a tofu lover or just tofu-curious, this lighter teriyaki tofu dish will win you over with its sweet-savory flavor and crispy texture. Plus, it’s craveable, gluten-free, vegetarian, and totally satisfying—what more could you want?
If you are looking for more tofu recipes, just go here!
Ary Fryer Teriyaki Tofu & Broccolini
Ingredients
- 1 block extra firm tofu
- ¼ cup San-J 50% Lite Tamari
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch, divided
- Avocado or gluten-free nonstick cooking spray
- ¾ cup San-J Teriyaki Lite
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 10 ounces broccolini
- 1 tablespoon water
- Furikake, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Drain the tofu, wrap in paper towels and place on a sheet pan or cutting board with something heavy (like a skillet) on top to dry it out, and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Make the marinade by combining the tamari, rice vinegar, and ginger in a small bowl. Cut the tofu into 1-inch pieces and place in a food storage bag with the marinade. Let marinate for 30 minutes. Can be done ahead up to 24 hours.
- Gently toss the tofu with 3 tablespoons of cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Spray the basket with oil, place the tofu in an even layer in the air fryer and spray with a little more oil. Air fry for 9 minutes, shaking the basket every 3 – 4 minutes.
- Toss the broccolini with oil, push the tofu to the side and add the broccolini to the air fryer. Air fry for another 6 minutes.
- While the tofu and broccolini finish, heat the teriyaki sauce in a small saucepan until it simmers. Whisk the remaining tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water. Whisk into the teriyaki sauce until thickened. Let cool slightly.
- Toss the tofu with the thickened sauce and serve with the broccolini over rice. Garnish with furikake if desired.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
