Remove the tofu from the packaging and drain well. Wrap the tofu with a paper towel or kitchen towel and set a heavy pan (such as a cast iron) on top. This will help remove excess water from the tofu. Set aside for 20 minutes.
While waiting for the tofu, heat a pan over medium-low heat. Toast the ground black pepper for 5 minutes or until fragrant. Remove and set aside.
Next, toast the salt for 5 minutes or until it turns into a yellowish hue. Remove and mix with the toasted black pepper. Toasting the pepper and salt will accentuate the flavors.
In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-low heat. Toss in the minced garlic and cook until light brown. Strain then set aside. Don't throw away the oil - set it aside to be used later.
Unwrap the tofu from the paper towel then cut it into small cubes. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of the toasted salt and pepper mixture and 1 tablespoon of oil. Toss to make sure the tofu is fully coated. Add the cornstarch and toss again, making sure all the tofu cubes are coated.
Pre-heat the air fryer at 400F / 205C. Transfer the tofu onto the basket or tray. Make sure each tofu cube has enough space around it. They should not be touching! Air fry for 12 minutes making sure to flip halfway through.
Heat the leftover oil that you previously saved from the garlic over medium heat. Then, add the red onions and saute for 1 minute. Next, add the long green pepper, Thai chili pepper, and air-fried tofu. Stir-fry for about 1 minute or until the aromatics are fragrant.
In the same pan, toss in the scallions and toasted garlic. Season it with a bit more of the toasted salt and pepper mixture. Stir fry and mix everything together.
Serve with a fresh bowl of rice and enjoy while hot!
