Crispy Tofu Bowls with Chili Sauce

Name: Crispy Tofu Bowls with Chili Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 block of firm tofu, pressed and cubed; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, julienned; 2 green onions, chopped; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sriracha; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Recipes

Enjoy a delicious and healthy meal with these Crispy Tofu Bowls, drizzled with a spicy chili sauce that packs a flavorful punch.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T22:51:18.851Z

This recipe combines the crispy texture of fried tofu with fresh vegetables and a spicy chili sauce, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy tofu that adds a delightful crunch
A balance of spicy and savory flavors
Packed with healthy vegetables for a nutritious meal

      

The Benefits of Tofu

Tofu is a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making it an ideal choice for vegetarians and vegans. It contains all nine essential amino acids and is low in calories, which helps support a healthy diet. Additionally, tofu is rich in iron, calcium, and magnesium, promoting strong bones and overall well-being.

Incorporating tofu into your meals not only diversifies your protein sources but also introduces a versatile ingredient that absorbs flavors beautifully. This adaptability makes it perfect for various cuisines and cooking methods, whether you're frying, baking, or grilling.

Flavor Pairing with Chili Sauce

The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory elements in the chili sauce perfectly complements the crispy tofu and fresh vegetables. Sriracha brings heat, while honey or maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness, creating a balanced flavor profile that tantalizes your taste buds.

Rice vinegar and sesame oil provide a delicious tang and depth, enhancing the overall dish. This sauce not only elevates the tofu bowls but can also be used as a dipping sauce or marinade, adding versatility to your cooking.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Tofu

For the best texture, make sure to press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture before cubing. This step is crucial as it allows the cornstarch to adhere better, resulting in a crunchier exterior when cooked. Additionally, using a non-stick skillet can help achieve even browning without sticking.

Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying the tofu. Cooking in batches allows each piece to get the necessary heat and space to develop a golden, crispy crust, enhancing both the texture and flavor of your dish.

Ingredients

For the Tofu Bowls

1 block of firm tofu, pressed and cubed
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, julienned
2 green onions, chopped

For the Chili Sauce

3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons sriracha
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Enjoy your crispy tofu bowls with chili sauce!

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu

In a bowl, toss the cubed tofu with cornstarch until evenly coated. This will help achieve a crispy texture.

Cook the Tofu

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 10 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until tender-crisp.

Prepare the Chili Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.

Assemble the Bowls

In serving bowls, layer the rice, sautéed vegetables, and crispy tofu. Drizzle with the chili sauce and top with chopped green onions.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

These crispy tofu bowls are incredibly versatile. You can serve them with a side of fresh salad or steamed edamame for added nutrition. Consider pairing them with a light soy sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.

Feel free to customize your bowls based on seasonal vegetables. Substituting zucchini, snap peas, or even kale can add variety to your meals and ensure you're enjoying the freshest produce available.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers. This will help maintain the crispiness of the tofu and the freshness of the vegetables. Refrigerated, they should be good for up to three days.

To reheat, consider using the oven or an air fryer to restore some crispness to the tofu. Microwaving is convenient but may result in a softer texture. Add a splash of water or broth to the vegetables before reheating to keep them from drying out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of protein?

Absolutely! You can substitute tofu with tempeh, chicken, or shrimp if you prefer.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan as long as you use maple syrup instead of honey.

→ Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for the chili sauce.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet before serving.