Tofu โ the versatile, plant-based protein thatโs often overlooked but has so much potential! If youโre a fan of healthy, tasty meals that are quick to prepare, then tofu should definitely be on your radar. Whether youโre a longtime fan or new to cooking with tofu, these recipes will transform how you see this humble ingredient.
Letโs dive into some of the best tofu recipes Iโm currently obsessed with, from savory stir-fries to crispy delights. Whether youโre looking for a simple snack, a hearty dinner, or a light meal, these tofu recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
Why Tofu?
Tofu is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s a great source of protein, low in calories, and rich in iron and calcium. Plus, it absorbs the flavors of whatever you cook it with, making it the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you prefer it soft, silken, firm, or crispy, tofu can be cooked in countless ways that will satisfy any craving.
1. Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry ๐ณ
This crispy tofu stir-fry is one of my absolute favorites! Itโs crispy on the outside and perfectly tender on the inside, and itโs packed with fresh vegetables and a savory sauce thatโs to die for. Hereโs how to make it:
Ingredients:
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1 block firm tofu (pressed to remove excess moisture)
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1 bell pepper (sliced)
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1 small zucchini (sliced)
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1 cup broccoli florets
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon maple syrup
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1 tablespoon cornstarch (for crispy tofu)
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Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Once pressed, cut the tofu into cubes.
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Toss the tofu cubes in cornstarch until theyโre lightly coated.
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Heat sesame oil in a large pan and fry the tofu until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pan, sautรฉ your vegetables (bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli) until tender.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and maple syrup.
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Add the tofu back into the pan and pour the sauce over everything. Stir to coat.
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Garnish with sesame seeds and serve with rice. Enjoy!
2. Tofu Scramble ๐ณ
This tofu scramble is the perfect breakfast alternative to scrambled eggs. Itโs quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Ingredients:
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1 block firm tofu
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Chopped veggies (spinach, tomatoes, onions, mushrooms)
Instructions:
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Press and crumble the tofu with your hands into a skillet.
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Heat olive oil over medium heat in a pan and sautรฉ your veggies until they soften.
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Add the crumbled tofu to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally.
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Add turmeric, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the tofu.
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Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tofu is golden and crispy in parts.
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Serve with toast, avocado, or a side of fresh fruit.
3. Tofu and Vegetable Soup ๐ฒ
This hearty tofu and vegetable soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a light lunch. Itโs full of nutrients, and the tofu adds a satisfying protein boost.
Ingredients:
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1 block silken tofu (cut into cubes)
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4 cups vegetable broth
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1 cup carrots (sliced)
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1 cup celery (sliced)
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1 cup spinach
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2 cloves garlic (minced)
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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In a large pot, sautรฉ garlic and ginger for 1-2 minutes.
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Add the vegetable broth, carrots, celery, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes.
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Gently add the tofu cubes and spinach and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.
4. Tofu Buddha Bowl ๐ฅ
A Buddha bowl is a filling, nutritious meal thatโs perfect for meal prep. This tofu version is packed with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a creamy tahini dressing.
Ingredients:
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1 block firm tofu
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1 cup cooked quinoa
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1 cup roasted sweet potatoes
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1 cup roasted Brussels sprouts
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1/2 avocado
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2 tablespoons tahini
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon maple syrup
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Press and cube the tofu. Roast it with olive oil, salt, and pepper for about 20 minutes.
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Cook the quinoa and set aside.
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Roast sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts until tender.
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Assemble your bowl with quinoa, roasted veggies, tofu, and avocado.
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Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and maple syrup to make the dressing, then drizzle over your bowl.
5. Tofu and Peanut Stir-Fry Noodles ๐
If you’re a fan of peanut sauce, this tofu and peanut stir-fry noodles recipe will become your new favorite dish.
Ingredients:
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1 block firm tofu (pressed and cubed)
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200g rice noodles
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1 bell pepper (sliced)
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1/2 cup shredded carrots
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon peanut butter
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1 tablespoon honey
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions.
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Fry the tofu in a pan until golden and crispy.
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In the same pan, sautรฉ bell peppers and carrots for 2-3 minutes.
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In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, peanut butter, honey, rice vinegar, and chili flakes.
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Toss the cooked noodles, tofu, and veggies in the peanut sauce, and serve.
Conclusion
Tofu is incredibly versatile and can be used in so many different ways! Whether youโre looking to make a stir-fry, a hearty breakfast scramble, a soup, or a filling salad, tofu is the perfect plant-based protein to include. These recipes are simple, nutritious, and packed with flavorโdefinitely worth adding to your meal rotation.
For more healthy recipes, check out:
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