Korean Tofu Bowl (Vegetarian)

This Korean Tofu Bowl is a wholesome and flavorful vegetarian dish that brings together crispy tofu, fresh vegetables, and rice for a satisfying and balanced meal. With bold Korean-inspired flavors and a variety of textures, it’s a vibrant bowl that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with plant-based protein

• Bursting with Korean-inspired flavors

• Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables

• Great for meal prep and busy weeknights

• Naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan

• Simple cooking steps and minimal prep time

• Balanced in texture with crispy, tender, and crunchy elements

• A colorful and visually appealing meal

• Delicious hot or cold

• Uses pantry-friendly ingredients

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Extra-firm tofu

• Soy sauce

• Rice vinegar

• Maple syrup

• Garlic, minced

• Cornstarch

• Vegetable oil (for pan-frying)

• Cooked white or brown rice

• Shredded carrots

• Sliced cucumbers

• Steamed spinach

• Sliced scallions

• Toasted sesame seeds

Directions

1. Prepare the tofu:
   Press the tofu for 15–20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into cubes.

2. Make the marinade:
   In a bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and minced garlic.

3. Marinate the tofu:
   Toss tofu in the marinade and let sit for 10–15 minutes.

4. Coat the tofu:
   Drain excess marinade and toss tofu cubes in cornstarch to coat evenly.

5. Cook the tofu:
   Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the tofu until golden and crispy on all sides.

6. Prepare vegetables:
   Julienne or slice the carrots and cucumbers. Steam the spinach until wilted.

7. Assemble the bowl:
   Add rice to the bowl, top with tofu, vegetables, scallions, and sesame seeds.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of white rice

• Add avocado or edamame for extra nutrients

• Swap in roasted sweet potato or zucchini

• Use air-fried tofu for a lighter version

• Add a drizzle of vegan mayo or a squeeze of lime

• Make it spicy with sliced chilies or chili flakes

• Replace tofu with tempeh or chickpeas

• Add kimchi or pickled radish for more tang

• Try it with cold soba noodles instead of rice

• Garnish with crushed peanuts or nori strips

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat tofu and rice in a microwave or on the stovetop. Add fresh vegetables after reheating to retain their texture.

FAQs

What kind of tofu should I use?

Extra-firm tofu works best because it holds its shape during frying and gets the crispiest texture.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, just ensure that all ingredients, especially sauces, are free from animal products. Maple syrup is a great vegan sweetener.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use an air fryer instead of pan-frying the tofu?

Yes, coat the marinated tofu in cornstarch and cook it in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Do I need to press the tofu?

Pressing the tofu removes water, helping it crisp up better when cooked. It’s highly recommended.

Can I use leftover rice?

Yes, day-old rice works perfectly and helps speed up the prep process.

What vegetables go best in this bowl?

Cucumber, carrot, spinach, and scallions are great options, but you can use whatever vegetables you enjoy or have on hand.

Can this be served cold?

Yes, this bowl can be enjoyed cold, especially in warm weather, making it great for picnics or packed lunches.

How long can I store leftovers?

Up to 3 days in the fridge. Keep tofu, rice, and vegetables stored separately for best results.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

You can substitute with potato starch or arrowroot powder for a similar crisp texture.

Conclusion

This Korean Tofu Bowl is a versatile and satisfying vegetarian meal that is easy to prepare, packed with bold flavors, and full of nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner, a healthy lunch, or prepping meals for the week, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.