Crispy Tofu Rice Bowls: A Quick and Flavorful Vegan Meal
Are you craving a hearty, satisfying vegan dish that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than Crispy Tofu Rice Bowls. This recipe combines crispy, golden tofu with wholesome ingredients like beans, rice, and fresh vegetables to create a filling and flavorful meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, these bowls can be customized with your favorite sauces and veggies.
How to Make Crispy Tofu Rice Bowls
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Use a tofu press or wrap it in a towel and place something heavy on top for about 30 minutes. Cut the tofu into cubes, then toss them with cornstarch, soy sauce, olive oil, onion powder, garlic salt, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Tofu
You can cook the tofu either by pan-frying or baking. For pan-fried tofu, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tofu in a single layer, cooking each side for about 3 minutes until golden and crispy. Alternatively, bake the tofu at 420°F (215°C) for 20-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice and Bowl Ingredients
While the tofu cooks, prepare your rice. Drain and rinse your beans, then chop any veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or green onions for garnish.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Layer the rice, crispy tofu, beans, and veggies into bowls. Drizzle your favorite sauce over the top—whether it’s a savory Thai peanut sauce, sesame garlic sauce, or a classic teriyaki glaze. Garnish with green onions for a fresh touch.
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Tofu Rice Bowls
These bowls are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The crispy tofu adds texture and protein, while the rice and beans offer a filling, wholesome base. The optional veggies enhance the dish’s freshness and crunch, making it a well-rounded, satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easily customizable with your favorite sauces and toppings!
Perfect for Meal Prep
Crispy Tofu Rice Bowls are also great for meal prepping! Prepare the tofu, rice, and toppings in advance, and assemble your bowls when you’re ready to eat. The tofu can be reheated, and the flavors get even better after a day or two in the fridge.
This Recipe is in my Cookbook, From Scratch!
I’m excited to share my cookbook with you, created with sustainability and flavor in mind! From Scratch is packed with delicious, eco-conscious recipes designed to nourish both you and the planet. Every dish is carefully crafted to use fresh, local ingredients, and focuses on minimizing waste while maximizing taste.
From wholesome breakfasts to hearty dinners, my cookbook offers a variety of plant-based meals that are easy to prepare and full of nutrients. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint or simply enjoy meals that are better for you and the Earth, this cookbook is your guide to eating in a way that’s both kind to the planet and satisfying to your taste buds. You can grab your copy here:
Check Out The Pantry Labels
In 2024, I released a set of Pantry Labels with recipes that are dishwasher-safe and fit the lids of mason jars perfectly.
Each labels has the recipe to refill the dry mix jar, as well as the recipe to make the item if applicable.
Crispy Tofu Rice Bowls
Ingredients
Crispy Tofu
- 14 ounces extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
Rice Bowl
- 2 cups cooked white rice or brown rice
- 1 16 ounce can of beans black beans or kidney beans
Optional Rice Bowl Ingredients
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 carrot diced
- Green onions for garnish
- Sauce to top bowls
Instructions
- Prepare the tofu. Use a tofu press to remove excess water, or wrap in a dish towel and place under something heavy for 30 minutes.
- Cut the tofu into ¾ inch cubes. In a bowl, combine tofu and remaining ingredients and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Pan fry the tofu by heating oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add tofu cubes in a single layer, cook for 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. You can also bake the tofu in your oven at 420°F for 20 to 30 minutes.
- While tofu is cooking, prepare your rice on the stove top or in an Instant Pot.
- Prepare additional rice bowl ingredients. Drain and rinse a can of your favorite beans. Dice bell pepper and carrot, and dice green onions.
- Assemble the bowls, adding rice, tofu, beans and additional ingredients. Top with your favorite sauce.
