Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl

Name: Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Inspiration

I absolutely love whipping up this Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl whenever I crave something hearty and satisfying. The crispy tofu, paired with fragrant garlic and perfectly cooked rice, creates a delightful combination that excites my taste buds. In just 30 minutes, I can make a delicious and fulfilling meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus, this dish is quick to prepare, and the leftovers are fantastic for meal prep. Join me in creating this dish that is not only easy but also packed with flavor and goodness!

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:34:35.579Z

Preparing this Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl is a joyful experience, and I enjoy experimenting with the crispy tofu texture. By pressing the tofu before cooking, I ensure it becomes perfectly crispy without being soggy. I also discovered that adding garlic towards the end of the cooking process helps preserve its flavor while infusing the dish with a rich aroma.

When I'm in a hurry, I love using pre-cooked rice to speed things up. This way, I can focus on getting that tofu just right and blending all the flavors together seamlessly. Each bite is a perfect balance of crispiness and taste, making it a repeat favorite in my kitchen!

You'll Love This Recipe Because
Deliciously crispy tofu that adds a delightful crunch
Fragrant garlic elevates the dish with aromatic goodness
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding Tofu

Tofu is a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making it a great choice for vegetarians and vegans. When choosing tofu for this recipe, firm or extra-firm varieties work best since they hold their shape during cooking and provide that satisfying crispiness. Pressing the tofu is crucial; it removes excess moisture enabling a better texture and allows the tofu to absorb more flavor from the soy sauce and garlic.

When marinating tofu, consider letting it sit longer than the cooking time—ideally, 30 minutes to an hour. If time permits, add in a touch of ginger or even chili flakes to your soy sauce mixture for added dimension. This marinating step not only enhances flavor but can also improve the overall texture, making the tofu even more enjoyable.

Perfecting Your Rice

The choice of jasmine rice in this dish is deliberate; it has a fragrant aroma and a slightly sticky texture that complements the crispy tofu beautifully. Rinsing the rice until the water runs clear is essential to remove excess starch, which prevents clumping and yields fluffy grains. For a nutty flavor, try toasting the rinsed rice in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding it to the vegetable broth.

An excellent alternative for those seeking variety is to use brown rice for added fiber and nutrients. However, be mindful that brown rice requires a longer cooking time—typically around 40-45 minutes. Adjust the liquid amount accordingly, using a 2:1 ratio of broth to rice to achieve perfectly tender grains.

Serving and Variations

While this bowl is delightful as is, consider adding steamed vegetables such as broccoli or bell peppers for a vibrant addition and even more nutritional benefits. Sautéing them with a splash of soy sauce in the same skillet just after the tofu can infuse additional flavor while maintaining their crunch. Alternatively, some pickled vegetables can add a refreshing contrast to the rich tofu and rice.

For those who enjoy spices, drizzle a bit of sriracha or hoisin sauce on top for an extra kick. This dish is highly adaptable; feel free to scale up the recipe for meal prep, keeping in mind that the Crispy Tofu may lose its texture when reheated. Consider storing the tofu and rice separately for best results when reheating—this keeps the tofu crispy and the rice fluffy.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups vegetable broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to make the dish even heartier!

Instructions

Prepare the Rice

Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork.

Crispy Tofu

While the rice is cooking, heat sesame oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Toss the cubed tofu with cornstarch, salt, and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the tofu is golden and crispy on all sides.

Add Garlic and Sauce

Once the tofu is crispy, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Pour in the soy sauce and stir to coat the tofu evenly and enhance the flavor.

Assemble the Bowl

Serve the cooked rice in bowls, topped with the crispy garlic tofu. Garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy your delicious meal!

For an extra kick, try adding chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce!

Pro Tips

Pressing the tofu removes excess moisture, leading to better crispiness. Experiment with different vegetables or sauces to customize your bowl!

Storage Tips

Storing leftovers from your Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl is straightforward. If you have extra tofu and rice, keep them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their textures. The rice can also be refrigerated, but be sure to cool it completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing the tofu. Arrange the crispy tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, you can re-crisp it in an oven or air fryer, which helps to preserve the desired texture.

Troubleshooting Crispy Tofu

Achieving perfectly crispy tofu requires a bit of attention to detail. One common mistake is overcrowding the skillet. When the tofu cubes are too close together, they steam instead of frying, resulting in less crispiness. Make sure to leave some space or fry them in batches if your skillet is small.

Another tip is to ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the tofu. A good test is to flick a drop of water in the pan; if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready to go! If your tofu isn’t getting that desired golden crust after 5-7 minutes, check the heat level; it may need a slight increase to create that appealing crunch.

Customizing Flavors

For those who love experimenting with flavors, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar to the soy sauce when coating the tofu. This touch of acidity can balance the richness of the sesame oil and provide a more rounded flavor profile. Alternatively, incorporating a dash of five-spice powder into the cornstarch coating can introduce an aromatic twist.

Herbs such as basil or cilantro can also brighten the dish. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs if you have any on hand, which not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the overall flavor experience without needing much effort. These small tweaks can transform your Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl into a new culinary adventure each time you make it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use tofu that isn't firm?

It's best to use firm tofu for this recipe. Soft or silken tofu won't hold its shape and will not crisp up.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl is entirely vegan-friendly!

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I substitute the rice?

Absolutely! You can use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or any grain you prefer.