Crispy Tofu Sesame Rice Bowl

Name: Crispy Tofu Sesame Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 400g firm tofu, pressed and cubed; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 cup cooked jasmine rice, warm; 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, shredded; 2 green onions, sliced; 3 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon honey; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love kicking off my weeknight dinners with something fresh and nourishing, and this Crispy Tofu Sesame Rice Bowl is my go-to! The combination of crispy tofu and vibrant veggies, all tossed in a delicious sesame dressing, makes for a satisfying meal. It's quick to prepare yet bursting with flavor, making it perfect for busy evenings. Plus, this bowl is easily customizable, so I can switch up the ingredients based on what I have at home. It's a delightful way to enjoy plant-based goodness!

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:19:20.293Z

When I first tried this Crispy Tofu Sesame Rice Bowl, I was amazed at how perfectly the textures blended together. The crispy tofu adds a satisfying crunch, while the fresh vegetables provide a wonderful contrast. I found that marinating the tofu in soy sauce before frying really elevates the flavor, making each bite an explosion of umami.

To make the dish even more vibrant, I like to incorporate seasonal vegetables. This bowl celebrates freshness and makes me feel energized. Don't forget to drizzle extra sesame dressing on top for added richness—it truly enhances the overall experience!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crunchy tofu that adds a delightful texture
A colorful mix of fresh vegetables for nutrition
Delicious sesame dressing that brings everything together

      

Tofu Preparation Techniques

Tofu is known for its ability to absorb flavors, which is why marinating it with soy sauce for at least 10 minutes is critical for creating a savory punch. Pressing the tofu beforehand ensures that excess moisture is removed, allowing for a firmer texture that crisps up beautifully during cooking. If you find your tofu still seems a bit watery, consider increasing the pressing time or using extra-firm tofu for better results.

Coating the marinated tofu with cornstarch is an essential step to achieving that coveted crispy exterior. The cornstarch creates a dry barrier that helps sear the tofu, leading to a golden, crunchy texture while keeping the inside tender. If you’re looking for an alternative, arrowroot powder also works as a gluten-free option, providing a similar crispy layer.

Vegetable Variations

This bowl is not only customizable but also an opportunity to experiment with seasonal vegetables. While the recipe traditionally includes bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli, you can easily swap in asparagus or snap peas for a crunchy bite or use zucchini for a softer texture. Just make sure to cut them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking, and sauté the harder vegetables longer before adding the softer ones.

If you're in a rush, pre-chopped or frozen vegetables can save time without compromising nutrition. Just remember to cook frozen vegetables until they are thoroughly heated and reach a tender yet crisp texture. For added depth of flavor, consider a splash of lemon or lime juice over the sautéed veggies, enhancing the freshness of the dish.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Crispy Tofu Sesame Rice Bowl can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. Store the components separately: keep the cooked rice and sautéed vegetables in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave each component until warm, ensuring a short burst for the tofu if you prefer to maintain its crispness.

If you're planning on freezing this dish, it’s best to freeze the tofu and rice separately. Tofu can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transferred to a bag once solid, which preserves its texture. Just remember to thaw it fully before reheating; you may need to add a splash of water to the rice when reheating to prevent it from drying out.

Ingredients

Tofu and Marinade

400g firm tofu, pressed and cubed
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch

Vegetables and Rice

1 cup cooked jasmine rice, warm
1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, shredded
2 green onions, sliced

Sesame Dressing

3 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl and enjoy!

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu

In a bowl, marinate the cubed tofu with soy sauce for about 10 minutes. After marinating, sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu, ensuring each piece is coated.

Cook the Tofu

In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and fry the tofu until golden and crispy on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and shredded carrot. Sauté for around 5 minutes until tender but still crisp. Add the steamed broccoli just until heated through.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and sesame seeds until well combined.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the warm jasmine rice, followed by the sautéed vegetables and crispy tofu. Drizzle with sesame dressing and top with sliced green onions.

Savor the delicious flavors of this bowl!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, feel free to add roasted nuts or seeds on top. You can also use brown rice or quinoa for a different grain option.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance the presentation and flavor of your bowl by garnishing it with fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint. These herbs add a burst of freshness that complements the dish beautifully. Additionally, a sprinkle of chili flakes or sesame seeds will introduce a subtle heat and an extra crunch to each bite.

For a heartier option, consider adding a poached or fried egg on top of the rice bowl. The runny yolk can create a rich, creamy sauce when mixed in, enhancing the overall flavor. Alternatively, you could include edamame or chickpeas for added protein, transforming the bowl into a more substantial meal.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your tofu isn't turning golden and crispy, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the tofu. A temperature that's too low can result in steaming rather than frying, so preheat your pan and use a non-stick option to avoid flipping disasters. If stuck, give it a little jiggle with a spatula to loosen any pieces.

If your sesame dressing seems too thick, whisking in a bit of water or extra rice vinegar can achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it's too thin, adding a bit more sesame oil or soy sauce will thicken it up without sacrificing flavor. Always taste before serving to make sure it meets your desired balance.

Culinary Storage Hacks

For optimum flavor, try to prepare your sesame dressing fresh, as the ingredients tend to settle over time. However, if you have leftover dressing, store it in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before serving to remix the flavors.

When storing leftovers, separate the crispy tofu from the rice and veggies to ensure it maintains its crunch. You can store the crispy tofu in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture, which can make it soggy if left in a sealed space for prolonged periods.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen tofu?

While frozen tofu can work, it may have a different texture. Thaw it completely and press to remove excess moisture.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can include snap peas, spinach, or kale based on your preference and seasonal availability.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Crispy Tofu Sesame Rice Bowl is completely plant-based and vegan-friendly!