Step One: Prepare the tofu:

Remove the tofu from the packaging and gently rinse it with clean water. Then, slice it into 12 equally-sized pieces for even cooking.

Step Two: Boil the tofu:

Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a small pot and add a tablespoon of sea salt. Carefully place the sliced tofu into the boiling water, cover the pot, and let it boil for 3 to 5 minutes.

Step Three: Dry the tofu thoroughly:

Use a strainer to transfer your boiled tofu to a baking pan lined with paper towels to cool for 15 minutes. Gently press down with additional paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Step Four: Coat the tofu:

Set up the coating station,  put 1 cup of Japanese panko breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, and cornstarch on three separate plates. Take one piece of tofu at a time, coat it with cornstarch, dip it in the eggs, and then coat it evenly with breadcrumbs. Repeat for the remaining tofu pieces. 

Step Five: Air-fry tofu:

Spray a light layer of cooking spray on the surface of the coated tofu and the air fryer basket.  Place all the tofu in the basket.  If you cannot fit all the tofu all at once, then make them in batches and never overcrowd them.  Assure air can circulate. Set the Air fryer at 400F/ 200C.  Cook them for 15 minutes.  Then open the basket, and use a thong or a pair of chopsticks to flip each piece over.  Then air fry them for an additional 5 minutes or until golden. 

Step Six: Make the Asian garlic sauce:

Combine sugar, soy sauce, oyster sauce, minced garlic, chopped green onion, and Fresno chili pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir the mixture well and set it aside. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a small saucepan. Once the oil is hot, carefully pour it into the sauce mixture, allowing the hot oil to cook the ingredients.

Step Seven: Finish and assemble the dish:

After frying the tofu, transfer it to a wire rack and let it rest and cool for 2 to 3 minutes. This resting period allows the outer layer to become crispy and firm. Once the tofu has rested, place it in a large mixing bowl and generously drizzle the Asian garlic sauce over the fried tofu, ensuring each piece is coated with the flavorful sauce.

Step Eight: Plate and Serve: 

Serve the tofu on a bed of shredded lettuce for added freshness. This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice or can be served as a delectable appetizer.