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Why Make This Recipe

Chili Crisp Tofu Bowls are a perfect option for a flavorful weeknight meal. They are easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. You can customize the toppings and adjust the spice level to your liking. Plus, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it great for everyone at the table!

How to Make Chili Crisp Tofu Bowls

Ingredients

1 block extra-firm or super-firm tofu (no pressing needed for super-firm tofu)
2 tablespoons cornstarch (for crunchiness)
3 tablespoons soy sauce (adds umami flavor)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil (for nutty aroma)
1/4 cup yum yum sauce (creamy component)
2 tablespoons chili crunch oil (adjust for spice)
1 cup cooked quinoa or rice (base for the bowls)
1/2 cup edamame (adds protein)
2 tablespoons green onions (chopped)
1/2 medium English cucumber (diced)
1 medium avocado (diced)
2 tablespoons cilantro (chopped)

Directions

Start by cutting the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
In a bowl, mix the cornstarch and soy sauce. Add the tofu and gently toss until all cubes are coated.
Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the coated tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
Once cooked, remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, you can add the cooked quinoa or rice. Mix in a bit of the chili crunch oil for flavor and heat.
To assemble the bowls, place quinoa or rice at the bottom. Add crispy tofu, edamame, diced cucumber, diced avocado, and chopped green onions.
Drizzle with yum yum sauce and more chili crunch oil, if desired. Top with chopped cilantro.

How to Serve Chili Crisp Tofu Bowls

Serve the chili crisp tofu bowls warm. They are great for lunch or dinner. You can enjoy them right away or customize each bowl based on your taste preferences.

How to Store Chili Crisp Tofu Bowls

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay good for about 2-3 days. Reheat the tofu and quinoa in a pan or microwave before serving.

Tips to Make Chili Crisp Tofu Bowls

For extra crunch, let the tofu cubes cook a bit longer.
You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more color and texture.
Feel free to swap the yum yum sauce for your favorite dressing, like tahini or a vinaigrette.

Variation

If you’re looking for a different twist, try adding different grains like brown rice or farro. You can also use tempeh instead of tofu for a different protein option.

FAQs

Can I use regular tofu instead of extra-firm?
Yes, but make sure to press it to remove excess water for better texture.

What if I don’t have chili crunch oil?
You can make your own by combining chili oil with crushed red pepper flakes or use a regular hot sauce for heat.

Can I prepare these bowls ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the tofu and grains in advance. Just add fresh toppings before serving to keep everything crispy.