Name: Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 14 oz extra firm tofu (drained); 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons gluten-free Tamari ((or soy sauce) divided); 4 teaspoons sriracha (divided); 1 tablespoon sesame oil (divided); 1 medium scallion (chopped, white and green parts separated); 2 teaspoons Thai sweet chili sauce; 1 cup cooked brown rice; 1/2 cup warmed shelled edamame; 1/2 teaspoon multi-color sesame seeds

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Every time I make Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls, I’m taken back to my college days when I was always on the lookout for quick yet delicious meals. There was something so energizing about the fiery kick of sriracha paired with the creamy texture of tofu. Back then, I’d often experiment with what I had in my pantry, and this dish became a staple. Whether I was rushing to class or hosting friends for a cozy dinner, these bowls always hit the spot. The beauty of Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls lies in their versatility; they can be prepared in an air fryer or oven, and they’re perfect for any occasion!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
20g g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free

Fat:
12g g

Tools Used:
Air Fryer

Why This Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls Works

Flavor Explosion

What makes Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls truly special is the explosion of flavors. The combination of sriracha and sesame oil brings a lovely heat and depth that pairs perfectly with the earthy tofu and brown rice.

Textural Delight

Each bite is a wonderful contrast. The crispy tofu from the air fryer or oven gives a satisfying crunch, while the brown rice provides a soft base that soaks up all that spicy goodness.

Easy to Customize

One of the best aspects of this recipe is how easily you can customize it. Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables or switch up the sauce to cater to your tastes. It’s endlessly adaptable!

Healthy and Wholesome

With the focus on plant-based ingredients like edamame and scallions, these bowls are packed with nutrients. You’ll get protein from the tofu and edamame while keeping the dish light and fresh.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Whether you’re busy during the week or just trying to eat healthily, these bowls are perfect for meal prep. You can whip up a big batch and have filling lunches ready to go!

Satisfying and Filling

Finally, the beauty of Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls is in their ability to satisfy your cravings without leaving you feeling heavy. They strike the right balance between comfort and health.

What You’ll Need for Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls

When it comes to making Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls, the philosophy behind the ingredients is all about balance. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a satisfying dish that’s not just tasty, but also healthy. Here are the key players:

14 oz extra firm tofu, drained: This is the star of the show, providing a hearty base while being rich in protein. Choosing extra firm ensures that your tofu can hold its shape and get crispy.
1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons gluten-free Tamari: This sauce adds an umami flavor to the dish. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, but you can use soy sauce if that’s what you have at home.
4 teaspoons sriracha: The magic ingredient. It gives the dish its signature heat and flavor, making each bite exciting.
1 tablespoon sesame oil: This oil not only brings richness but also complements the sriracha beautifully.
1 medium scallion, chopped: Scallions add a fresh crunch and a pop of color. Separating the white and green parts lets you use them at different stages in cooking.
2 teaspoons Thai sweet chili sauce: This adds a touch of sweetness that balances the heat from the sriracha.
1 cup cooked brown rice: A wholesome base that makes the dish filling and nutritious.
1/2 cup warmed shelled edamame: These little gems provide extra protein and a lovely green color.
1/2 teaspoon multi-color sesame seeds: These seeds add a nice crunch and a decorative touch!

Making This Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls

Creating Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls is a truly enjoyable process. It’s about layering flavors and ensuring that each ingredient shines. Follow these steps for a delightful meal!

Start by preparing your tofu. Place the block between some paper towels and press to absorb any extra water. This step is essential to ensure it fries up nice and crispy.
Once the tofu feels dry, slice it across in half lengthwise and then into cubes. Aim for about one-inch pieces; they cook evenly and get that perfect crisp.
In a large bowl, stir together 1 tablespoon of the tamari, 2 teaspoons of the sriracha, 2 teaspoons of the sesame oil, and the chopped white parts of the scallion. Add the tofu and let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak in those flavors.
While the tofu marinates, spray the air fryer basket with oil. This prevents sticking and helps in getting that golden-brown texture.
Transfer the tofu to the air fryer in a single layer. Set it to 370°F and air fry for about 10 to 12 minutes. Make sure to shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. You want it to be golden and crisp on the outside while tender inside.
If using the oven, preheat it to 400°F and bake the tofu for about 25 minutes, turning it halfway through for even cooking.
While the tofu is cooking, mix the remaining 2 teaspoons of sriracha, 2 teaspoons of tamari, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and the Thai sweet chili sauce in the bowl you used earlier. This will be the sauce you coat the tofu with later.
Once the tofu is cooked, toss it in the sauce until evenly covered. This step ensures that each piece has that delicious flavor.
To serve, plate the crispy tofu over a bed of brown rice, and top with edamame, a sprinkle of multi-color sesame seeds, and the green parts of the scallions for garnish.
Enjoy your Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls immediately and relish the delightful combination of flavors and textures!

Things Worth Knowing

Pressing Tofu: Always remember to press your tofu! This helps remove excess moisture and allows it to crisp up perfectly.
Flavor Depth: Marinating the tofu before cooking really enhances its flavor. The longer it sits, the better the taste!
Cooking Temperature: Whether using the air fryer or oven, ensure your appliance is preheated. This helps in achieving that desired crispiness.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

Recipe Tips about Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls

Making Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls can be an exciting culinary adventure! Here are some tips to ensure you have the best experience:

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Freezing: You can freeze the marinated tofu before cooking. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.
Pairing: These bowls pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Variations: Switch up the toppings by adding avocado, shredded carrots, or chopped nuts for additional texture and flavor.
Meal Prep: These bowls are great for meal prep! Make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week for quick lunches.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls, you have plenty of options to make your meal truly special!

At Lunch: These bowls make for a fantastic lunch option, especially when you need something filling yet light to power through your afternoon.
For Dinner: Serve Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls for a casual dinner with friends or family. They’re quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, fresh grilled vegetables or a light cucumber salad can complement the heat of the tofu beautifully.
Serving Style: You can serve them family-style in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves, or plate them individually for a more elegant presentation.
Storage During Events: If you’re hosting, these bowls can be prepared ahead of time and kept warm in the oven, ready for everyone to dig in!

FAQ

While you can use soft tofu, I highly recommend using extra firm tofu for Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls. Extra firm tofu holds its shape better during cooking and can achieve that desirable crispiness. Soft tofu tends to fall apart and may not provide the same texture experience. If you’re looking for that crunchy bite combined with the soft rice and fresh toppings, stick with extra firm!

There are plenty of ways to boost the nutrition of Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls. Consider adding vegetables like steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. You can also incorporate leafy greens like spinach or kale for added vitamins and minerals. Another great addition is avocado for healthy fats, which also brings creaminess to the dish. Feel free to get creative with what you enjoy!

Absolutely! Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls are perfect for meal prepping. You can cook a large batch and divide them into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to eat to ensure your tofu stays crispy. Reheat the tofu gently in the microwave or on the stove to maintain its texture.

Yes! Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls are entirely plant-based and suitable for a vegan diet. The main ingredients—tofu, rice, and vegetables—are all vegan-friendly. Plus, the use of gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce makes it suitable for those avoiding gluten as well. Enjoy this delicious meal with confidence!

Conclusion

Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls truly stand out with their flavorful kick and delightful textures, making them a favorite among many. I encourage you to try this dish to experience not just a meal, but a culinary celebration of flavors! You’ll love how simple yet incredibly tasty it is, and it’s sure to impress anyone you share it with.