Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl

Name: Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed; 2 cups jasmine rice; 4 cups water or vegetable broth; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish; Sliced vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli)

Highlighted under: Global Inspiration

I absolutely love this Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl! It's my go-to dish when I crave something hearty yet healthy. The combination of crispy tofu and fragrant garlic rice creates a delightful meal that’s packed with flavor. I enjoy how simple ingredients can come together to form a satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Plus, it's a fantastic way to sneak in some extra vegetables while still being utterly delicious. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen too!

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:07:35.007Z

When I first experimented with this Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly everything came together. The thought of crispy tofu in a bed of garlic-infused rice was too tempting to resist! I remember deciding to use a simple yet effective frying method that brings out the best texture in tofu. Patience is key when frying to ensure that every piece is perfectly crispy.

One particular tip I've learned is to press the tofu properly before cooking. This removes excess moisture and allows it to absorb flavors more effectively. Using freshly cooked garlic rice as a base enhances the dish further, making it incredibly aromatic.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy and flavorful tofu that pairs beautifully with garlic rice
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and sauces
A satisfying meal that's both nutritious and filling

Perfecting the Tofu

The key to achieving perfectly crispy tofu is removing as much moisture as possible. After pressing the tofu, let it sit for an additional 10 minutes, as this helps with achieving a great texture after frying. Be sure to cut the cubes evenly, roughly 1-inch, to ensure uniform cooking. This not only maximizes surface area for crispiness but also allows the flavors of the marinade to penetrate more effectively.

Once coated with cornstarch, allow the tofu to rest for a few minutes before frying. This step helps the cornstarch adhere better and forms a thicker crust upon frying. Visual cues are critical here: look for a golden-brown color as a sign that the tofu is becoming crispy. If you find that some pieces brown faster than others, consider reducing the heat slightly to ensure all pieces cook evenly.

Enhancing Garlic Flavor

The garlic in the rice is a fundamental component of this dish, contributing a wonderful aroma and flavor. To ensure that the garlic doesn’t burn, sauté it over medium heat and keep a close eye on it; cook just until fragrant, which usually takes about a minute. Burnt garlic turns bitter and can overshadow the delicate taste of the rice, so it’s crucial to monitor the cooking process closely.

For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of sesame seeds during the garlic sauté phase. This will elevate the dish with an extra layer of flavor without overwhelming the garlic's inherent sweetness. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, feel free to reduce the amount used or opt for sautéing whole cloves instead of minced.

Serving and Variations

This Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl can be easily customized based on your vegetable preferences. Consider adding sautéed seasonal vegetables like zucchini or asparagus to elevate the dish and add more color. Alternatively, for a touch of freshness, top the bowl with raw veggies, such as shredded carrots or cucumber slices, which add a nice crunch along with nutritional benefits.

For a creamier texture, drizzle a bit of tahini or a spicy sauce over the assembled bowl. If you want to make this a complete meal, adding avocado or a fried egg can also enhance the overall experience. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this dish your own while still keeping it hearty and healthy!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl.

For the Tofu and Rice Bowl

14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed
2 cups jasmine rice
4 cups water or vegetable broth
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish
Sliced vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli)

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to enhance this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, combine jasmine rice and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.

Prepare the Tofu

While the rice is cooking, press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into cubes and toss with soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu and mix well to coat evenly.

Fry the Tofu

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Fry the tofu cubes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 10-12 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Make the Garlic Rice

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the cooked rice and mix well, ensuring the rice is coated with the garlic. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the garlic rice, crispy tofu, and your choice of sliced vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

To make this dish vegan, use vegetable broth and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free if needed. You can also substitute tofu with tempeh for a different texture and flavor.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the crispy tofu and garlic rice in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This helps maintain the crispy texture of the tofu, which can become soggy if stored together with the rice. The tofu should last for about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator, while the rice can be stored for up to a week.

To reheat, place the tofu in a single layer in a preheated skillet over medium heat to re-crisp it. The rice can be reheated in a microwave, but add a splash of water to keep it moist, covering it to steam for a minute or two. Stir the rice to ensure even heating.

Dietary Adjustments

This recipe is easily adaptable for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. If you’re looking to reduce carbs, try using cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice; simply sauté it with garlic for a similar flavor profile.

For a protein-packed vegan option, consider adding edamame or chickpeas, which complement the texture of the tofu. If additional flavor is desired, marinate these proteins similarly to the tofu or create a zesty dressing to spoon over the bowl.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe is straightforward if you’re cooking for a larger group. For larger servings, increase the rice and broth proportionally, keeping the tofu in the same quantity, as it is rich in protein and filling. Each serving can be packed with flavor, so maintaining the balance of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic is essential to ensure consistent tastes.

If you prefer, the dish can also be portioned into meal prep containers for grab-and-go meals throughout the week. Just remember to store the components separately if you wish to maintain the integrity of the crispy tofu. With a few adjustments, this versatile recipe can cater to any occasion or crowd you may be serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of rice?

Yes, you can substitute jasmine rice with brown rice, but cooking time may vary.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover rice and tofu separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tofu and rice in advance. Reheat before serving.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Just pack individual servings for easy grab-and-go meals.