If you’re on the hunt for a dinner that satisfies the senses, these Spicy Peanut Tofu Bowls are about to become your new obsession. They’re a vibrant, nourishing medley of crispy baked tofu, fluffy rice, a riot of fresh veggies, and the dreamiest homemade peanut sauce. The dish brings together creamy, spicy, sweet, and crunchy in every bite – all while being easy enough for weeknights. If you’re ready for a flavor-packed, plant-based dinner you’ll crave again and again, this is the one to bookmark!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how this short ingredient list turns into something so flavorful and colorful! Each item is carefully chosen to add textural contrast or balance out the star of the show: that irresistible spicy peanut sauce.
- Firm tofu: The foundation of our bowls; firm tofu soaks up flavor and crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Cornstarch: This light dusting is the secret to achieving that golden, crunchy tofu exterior.
- Vegetable oil: A drizzle gives your tofu that crispy, satisfying bite while baking.
- Cooked jasmine or brown rice: Either grain brings comfort and makes the bowl hearty; use your favorite!
- Shredded red cabbage: For a pop of purple, fresh crunch, and extra nutrients in every bowl.
- Julienned carrot: Sweetness and color – plus that irresistible snappy texture!
- Steamed broccoli florets: Adds tender green goodness and soaks up extra peanut sauce.
- Green onions: A sharp, fresh finish that lifts every spoonful.
- Chopped roasted peanuts: Every bowl deserves a little crunch, and these deliver it with nutty flair.
- Chopped fresh cilantro: Just the right herbal contrast to tie all the flavors together.
- Creamy peanut butter: The backbone of our spicy peanut sauce; use creamy for the best texture.
- Soy sauce: Instantly adds deep, savory umami to the sauce.
- Sriracha: That signature spicy kick—use more or less to suit your heat preference.
- Honey or maple syrup: Choose your favorite; both add just a touch of delightful sweetness.
- Rice vinegar: For a gentle tang that brightens and balances the sauce.
- Fresh ginger: Grated ginger infuses the sauce with zingy warmth.
- Warm water: A splash or two turns the sauce silky and drizzly, perfect for pouring.
How to Make Spicy Peanut Tofu Bowls
Step 1: Prep and Bake the Tofu
Start by getting your oven nice and hot at 400°F to guarantee a crispy finish. After pressing your tofu (to banish extra water), slice it into 1-inch cubes. In a mixing bowl, gently toss the cubes in cornstarch until every piece is coated—think of it like giving each little cube its own puffy jacket. Spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they’re not touching, then drizzle with the vegetable oil. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, giving them a turn halfway through—this ensures all sides become golden and delightfully crisp.
Step 2: Make the Spicy Peanut Sauce
While the tofu is working its magic, let’s whip up the heart of the dish: the sauce! In a small bowl, add your creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, sriracha, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. Pour in about two tablespoons of warm water to start, then whisk like you mean it. If you want a drizzlier sauce, add an extra splash of water until it’s just pourable. Taste and adjust—maybe a touch more sriracha for heat, or a drip of syrup for sweetness. You’ll want to eat this sauce with a spoon!
Step 3: Prep the Veggies
As the tofu nears perfection, quickly prep your veggies. Shred the vibrant red cabbage, julienne the carrot (or use a spiralizer for fun curls), and steam those broccoli florets until just tender. Grab your green onions and chop them on a sharp diagonal for extra flair. Having your veggies ready makes assembly a breeze and keeps your bowls eye-catchingly colorful.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Now for the fun part—assembly! Divide your cooked rice between four bowls so that everyone gets a generous base. Artistically top each bowl with piles of shredded cabbage, carrots, steamed broccoli, and those golden, crispy tofu cubes. Don’t forget to drizzle generously with your spicy peanut sauce, making sure every nook and cranny gets a little love.
Step 5: Top and Serve
Finally, finish each bowl with the delicious details: sprinkle on the chopped roasted peanuts for a burst of crunch, scatter over fresh green onions and chopped cilantro for color and flavor. Serve right away while everything is warm and at its crunchiest and creamiest!
How to Serve Spicy Peanut Tofu Bowls
Garnishes
Garnishing your Spicy Peanut Tofu Bowls will take them from tasty to absolutely irresistible. Think a confetti of chopped peanuts for crunch, a flurry of fresh cilantro, and delicate green onion slices. If you’re feeling extra, a squeeze of lime or a fan of avocado adds creaminess and bright citrusy zing. Layering garnishes not only boosts the bowl’s flavor, but also gives it that beautiful “wow” factor when you set it on the table.
Side Dishes
These hearty bowls are truly satisfying on their own, but if you want to go all out, try pairing with quick-pickled cucumbers, a light miso soup, or crisp spring rolls. Each adds a refreshing contrast and keeps your Spicy Peanut Tofu Bowls meal as vibrant as it is filling.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can be as playful or as elegant as you like! Craft a build-your-own bowl bar for a crowd or layer each component in a glass jar for an eye-catching lunch to-go. Try serving in wide, shallow bowls for a modern look, or offer individual mini bowls at parties for an appetizer-style presentation. However you serve, these Spicy Peanut Tofu Bowls will always be a centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers (it’s rare, but miracles happen!), store each component separately in airtight containers. The tofu will stay crispest if kept apart from the veggies and sauce. Everything will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making this a meal-prep superstar.
Freezing
While the rice and tofu freeze surprisingly well, the fresh veggies are best enjoyed fresh. To freeze, let the baked tofu and rice cool completely, then stash them separately in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready, you can thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To get your tofu crispy again, reheat it in a 375°F oven or air fryer for a few minutes until warm and golden. The rice can be quickly revived with a splash of water and a quick zap in the microwave. Assemble your bowls with fresh veggies and a drizzle of sauce for a meal that tastes freshly made.
FAQs
Can I air-fry the tofu instead of baking?
Absolutely! Air-frying gives you extra-crispy tofu in even less time. Just toss with cornstarch and a light spray of oil, then air fry at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Is the spicy peanut sauce very hot?
It has a pleasant, warming heat from the sriracha, but it’s easy to tailor. Start with a little and taste as you go. For less heat, use less sriracha; for more fire, add an extra squirt!
Can I use different vegetables in these Spicy Peanut Tofu Bowls?
Of course! These bowls welcome creativity—try bell peppers, snap peas, edamame, or even leafy greens. Swap in your favorite veggies based on what’s in season or needs using up in your fridge.
Is there a gluten-free version?
Yes! Just swap out regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, and you’ve got yourself 100% gluten-free Spicy Peanut Tofu Bowls.
Can I prep any parts of this meal ahead of time?
Definitely! Both the spicy peanut sauce and the baked tofu can be made in advance. Keep them in separate containers in the fridge, then assemble with fresh veggies and rice when you’re ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
Get ready to bring some bold color and incredible flavor to your weeknight routine with these Spicy Peanut Tofu Bowls. They’re nourishing, wildly customizable, and seriously addicting. Give them a try—you just might find your new favorite dinner!
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Spicy Peanut Tofu Bowls Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Spicy Peanut Tofu Bowls are a delicious and satisfying vegan meal option. Crispy baked tofu is served over jasmine or brown rice, topped with a colorful mix of vegetables, and drizzled with a flavorful spicy peanut sauce.
Ingredients
Tofu:
- 1 block (14 ounces) firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Bowls:
- 1 cup cooked jasmine or brown rice
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Spicy Peanut Sauce:
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2–3 tablespoons warm water to thin sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Toss in cornstarch and arrange on the baking sheet. Drizzle with oil and bake for 25-30 minutes until crispy.
- Make sauce: Whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, sriracha, honey/maple syrup, vinegar, ginger, and water.
- Assemble bowls: Divide rice among four bowls. Top with cabbage, carrot, broccoli, and tofu. Drizzle with sauce and garnish with green onions, peanuts, and cilantro.
Notes
- Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
- You can air-fry the tofu for an even crispier texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
