Imagine a dish that transforms humble tofu into a crispy, spicy sensation that'll make your taste buds dance with excitement! These Chili Crisp Tofu Bowls are not just a meal; they're a culinary adventure that bridges traditional Asian flavors with modern fusion cuisine. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that's packed with texture, heat, and incredible depth of flavor - proving that plant-based eating can be anything but boring.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Fusion
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tablespoons chili crisp
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup steamed broccoli
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in clean kitchen towels or paper towels and place a heavy object on top for 15 minutes to extract water.
- Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Heat sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and becomes fragrant.
- Carefully add tofu cubes to the hot skillet, creating a single layer without overcrowding. Allow tofu to develop a golden-brown crispy exterior, turning each piece every 2-3 minutes to ensure even browning.
- Once tofu is crispy, reduce heat to low and add chili crisp and soy sauce. Gently toss to coat the tofu evenly, allowing the flavors to caramelize for 1-2 minutes.
- While tofu is cooking, prepare the rice and steam the broccoli if not already prepared.
- Slice cucumbers into thin, uniform rounds for garnish.
- Assemble the bowls by first adding a base of warm rice, then arranging the chili crisp tofu on top.
- Add steamed broccoli and cucumber slices around the tofu.
- Garnish with chopped scallions and an extra drizzle of chili crisp if desired.
- Serve immediately while tofu is hot and crispy, enjoying the blend of textures and spicy, savory flavors.
Tips
- Pressing tofu is crucial: Use a tofu press or create a DIY version with towels and heavy weights to remove excess moisture, ensuring maximum crispiness.
- Use high heat and don't overcrowd the pan to achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior on your tofu cubes.
- Choose a high-quality chili crisp for maximum flavor impact - brands like Lao Gan Ma can elevate the entire dish.
- For extra protein, consider adding a soft-boiled egg or sprinkling with toasted sesame seeds.
- If you prefer less heat, adjust the amount of chili crisp to suit your spice tolerance.
- Prep all ingredients before cooking to ensure a smooth, stress-free cooking process.
- For meal prep, you can cook the components separately and assemble just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
