Crispy Tofu Bowls with Chili Sauce

Name: Crispy Tofu Bowls with Chili Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup carrots, julienned; 2 cups cooked rice; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon grated ginger

Highlighted under: International Taste Journey

Enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal with these Crispy Tofu Bowls drizzled with a spicy chili sauce. Perfect for lunch or dinner!

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2025-12-16T21:29:18.066Z

This Crispy Tofu Bowl is a delicious blend of textures and flavors. The crispy tofu pairs perfectly with the fresh vegetables and the spicy chili sauce adds the right kick to make every bite exciting!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy tofu that adds a satisfying crunch to your meal
A vibrant mix of fresh veggies for a nutrient-packed experience
Homemade chili sauce that can be adjusted to your spice level

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavor and Nutrition

Crispy Tofu Bowls with Chili Sauce offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors that make each bite a satisfying experience. The combination of crunchy tofu, fresh vegetables, and a zesty sauce creates a well-rounded meal that is both delicious and nutritious. Incorporating plant-based protein in your diet is essential for maintaining energy levels, and tofu is an excellent choice, providing all nine essential amino acids.

In this recipe, we've included a vibrant assortment of vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots, which not only add color but also an abundance of vitamins and minerals. The fiber content from these vegetables will help keep you full longer, making it a perfect option for lunch or dinner. Eating a variety of colors on your plate is an excellent way to ensure you're getting a range of nutrients.

Customizable Spice Levels

One of the best aspects of this Crispy Tofu Bowl recipe is the homemade chili sauce. With ingredients that you can easily adjust, you have full control over the spice level. If you prefer a milder sauce, simply reduce the amount of chili paste or sriracha. On the other hand, if you enjoy a fiery kick, feel free to add more chili paste or even some crushed red pepper flakes.

Not only can you customize the spice, but you can also experiment with the flavors in the sauce. For instance, adding a squeeze of lime juice or some chopped scallions can elevate the taste and add a fresh twist. This flexibility makes the dish suitable for family members with different heat preferences, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal.

Meal Prep Made Easy

These Crispy Tofu Bowls are an excellent choice for meal prep, as they can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for several days. The tofu can be fried in batches, and the vegetables can be stir-fried quickly, allowing you to prepare multiple servings in one go. Just remember to keep the chili sauce separate until you're ready to eat, as it keeps the tofu crispy and the veggies fresh.

This recipe also lends itself well to customization based on seasonal vegetables or your personal preferences. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or grains, such as quinoa or farro, for added variety. With a little planning, you can enjoy this tasty and healthy dish throughout the week, making it a convenient option for busy individuals.

Ingredients

For the Tofu Bowls

14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup bell pepper, sliced
1 cup carrots, julienned
2 cups cooked rice
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chili Sauce

3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon grated ginger

Mix and match your favorite vegetables to personalize your bowls!

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu

Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes and toss them in cornstarch until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper.

Fry the Tofu

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

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Make the Chili Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, chili paste, garlic, sesame oil, and ginger until well combined.

Assemble the Bowls

In bowls, layer cooked rice, the stir-fried vegetables, and crispy tofu. Drizzle with the chili sauce before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy crispy tofu bowls!

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the components separately to maintain the tofu's crispiness and the freshness of the vegetables. Keep the chili sauce in an airtight container and drizzle it on just before serving. The tofu can be reheated in a skillet to re-crisp it, while the vegetables can be quickly warmed in the microwave or on the stove.

Properly stored, the crispy tofu and veggies can last for up to three days in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to consume them within the first two days. This way, you can enjoy a fresh and delicious meal every time.

Nutritional Benefits of Tofu

Tofu is a versatile and nutritious food that is low in calories yet rich in protein. It is an excellent source of calcium, iron, and magnesium, essential for maintaining bone health and overall wellness. Additionally, tofu contains isoflavones, which have been shown to have antioxidant properties and may help reduce the risk of certain diseases.

Including tofu in your meals can also contribute to a balanced diet, providing a good source of plant-based protein that can help with muscle repair and growth. For those following vegetarian or vegan diets, tofu offers a fantastic alternative to meat, ensuring you still get the necessary nutrients without compromising on taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of protein instead of tofu?

Yes, you can substitute tofu with tempeh, chicken, or even chickpeas.

→ How can I make the chili sauce milder?

You can reduce the amount of chili paste or sriracha to adjust the spice level.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the tofu and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with these bowls?

These bowls pair well with a side of spring rolls or a light salad.