Creating delicious tofu fried rice at home is easier than you might think! This vibrant, satisfying dish marries the flavors of crispy tofu, fresh vegetables, and perfect rice, making it an ideal meal for any day of the week. You don’t need to be a professional chef to whip this up either; it’s approachable, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor.
What makes this tofu fried rice truly special is its wonderful texture—the crispy tofu contrasts nicely with the tender rice and sautéed veggies. Plus, it’s a fantastic dish for anyone looking to enjoy a filling vegetarian meal while incorporating plant-based protein.
Why you’ll love tofu fried rice
- Super quick to prepare and cook
- Packed with colorful vegetables
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients
- Budget-friendly without sacrificing flavor
What ingredients do I need for tofu fried rice?
- 1 cup of jasmine rice (or any rice of your choice)
- 1 block of firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 cup of mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, peas)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Firm tofu holds its shape well during cooking; silken or soft tofu may fall apart.
- You can replace mixed vegetables with any seasonal veggies you like, such as broccoli or zucchini.
- Feel free to use brown rice or quinoa for a nutty flavor and extra health benefits.
How do I make tofu fried rice step-by-step?
Making tofu fried rice is straightforward! Start by cooking your rice and letting it cool; cold rice is the secret to perfect fried rice. Follow these steps to bring your dish together:
- Cook the jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set aside to cool.
- Prepare the tofu by dicing it into small cubes. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Sauté the tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and slightly crispy, for about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tofu and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil, followed by the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Return the cooked tofu to the skillet. Add the cooled rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything together gently, allowing the flavors to meld for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add the sliced green onions, season with salt and pepper, and stir for an additional minute to heat through.
- If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
Pro Tip: Make sure to keep the rice cold before frying; it helps to prevent the rice from becoming mushy while cooking.
How should I serve it?
Serve your tofu fried rice in bowls or on a large platter for family-style dining. A drizzle of extra soy sauce or sesame oil elevates the flavors even more. For a pop of freshness, consider adding lime wedges on the side or some chopped cilantro as a garnish.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Absolutely! You can make tofu fried rice ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or microwave it. Just be careful not to overcook the rice when reheating.
How do I fix common issues?
If you find your tofu fried rice turns out dry, try adding a splash of water or extra soy sauce while reheating. For blandness, toss in a bit more salt or soy sauce. If it’s too greasy, reduce the amount of oil next time or balance it with some extra vegetables or tofu.
What variations can I try?
To customize your tofu fried rice, consider adding ingredients like cooked shrimp or chicken for a non-vegetarian version, or stir in some scrambled eggs for added protein. You can also experiment with different sauces, such as hoisin or chili garlic, for a unique twist.
FAQs
Can I freeze tofu fried rice?
Yes! Tofu fried rice can be frozen in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What type of rice is best for fried rice?
Jasmine rice is great for fried rice due to its fragrant, fluffy texture, but any leftover rice works well, including brown rice or basmati.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables can be a time-saver. Just make sure to thaw them beforehand for even cooking.
This delicious tofu fried rice is a meal that promises to satisfy your cravings while being nutritious and easy to make. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Tofu Fried Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set aside to cool.
- Prepare the tofu by dicing it into small cubes. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and slightly crispy, for about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tofu and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil, followed by the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Return the cooked tofu to the skillet. Add the cooled rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything together gently, allowing the flavors to meld for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add the sliced green onions, season with salt and pepper, and stir for an additional minute to heat through.
- If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.