Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl

Name: Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 block of firm tofu, pressed and cubed; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups water or vegetable broth; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, julienned; Green onions, for garnish

Highlighted under: Wellness Favorites

I love making a Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl when I want a satisfying yet healthy meal. The crispy tofu pairs beautifully with the garlicky rice, creating a dish that's full of flavor and texture. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, and the combination of fresh vegetables and crunchy tofu makes each bite delightful. Whether it’s for lunch or dinner, this bowl is my go-to whenever I crave something both nutritious and indulgent.

Created by

Elodie Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-21T21:49:34.372Z

Every time I make my Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl, I remember the first time I experimented with frying tofu. The key is to press the tofu well to eliminate excess moisture, which results in that perfect crispiness when cooked. Pairing this with garlic-infused rice elevates it from a simple meal to a delightful dish.

I also love to throw in whatever vegetables I have on hand, making it a highly versatile recipe. This bowl is not just filling but also a celebration of flavors and textures that leaves me feeling nourished and content.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The crispy texture of the tofu adds a satisfying crunch.
Garlic-infused rice brings a delightful flavor profile to the dish.
Customizable with your favorite vegetables for endless variations.

      

Mastering Crispy Tofu

Achieving the perfect crispy tofu is all about preparation and cooking technique. Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving that desired crunch. After cubing, toss the tofu in cornstarch – this forms a light coating that crisps up beautifully. As you heat the vegetable oil, aim for medium-high heat; too low and the tofu will absorb oil, becoming soggy instead of crispy. Fry each cube for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown, ensuring even cooking by turning gently.

To enhance the flavor of your crispy tofu, consider marinating it beforehand. A simple mixture of soy sauce, garlic powder, or even a splash of lime juice can add depth to the flavor. If you're short on time, sprinkling the tofu with a blend of smoked paprika and garlic powder before tossing it in cornstarch can provide an instant flavor boost without an extended marinating period.

Garlic Rice Perfection

The key to flavorful garlic rice lies in how you incorporate the garlic. Adding minced garlic during the final stages of cooking allows it to infuse the rice with its aromatic flavor while preventing it from burning. Once you add the garlic, keep an eye on the rice and give it a quick fluff to mix the garlic evenly throughout. Cook for an additional two to three minutes until the rice is glossy and fragrant, achieving that perfect balance of moisture and taste.

For the rice, jasmine is preferred for its subtle floral aroma, but if you need a substitute, basmati rice works well, offering a similar texture. If you're looking for a healthier option, brown rice can be used, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio since it requires longer cooking to fully soften. The added chewiness from brown rice can also be a delightful contrast to the crispy tofu.

Vegetable Variations and Serving Suggestions

While broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot provide a beautiful color palette and balance of textures, feel free to customize your vegetable selection based on what you have on hand. Snap peas, zucchini, or bok choy can also be fantastic choices. Just ensure that any vegetable you choose cooks in a similar time frame to achieve that tender-crisp texture. For instance, if you opt for green beans, sauté them for an extra minute or two.

When assembling the bowl, consider drizzling a bit of sriracha or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and texture. This dish can also be a hearty meal prep option; prepare the tofu and rice ahead of time and keep them stored separately. Just reheat everything before serving to ensure the tofu remains crispy, rather than allowing it to steam and lose its crunch.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious bowl:

For the Crispy Tofu:

1 block of firm tofu, pressed and cubed
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Garlic Rice:

1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups water or vegetable broth
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons sesame oil

For the Vegetables:

1 cup broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, julienned
Green onions, for garnish

Adjust the vegetables based on your preference; feel free to mix and match!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Crispy Tofu Garlic Rice Bowl:

Prepare the Tofu

Toss the cubed tofu with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat and fry the tofu until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the jasmine rice and reduce heat to low. Cook covered for 15 minutes or until the liquid has absorbed. In the last 5 minutes, add minced garlic and soy sauce, fluffing the rice with a fork afterward.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan used for the tofu, sauté the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drizzle with sesame oil and toss well.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer the garlic rice, topped with crispy tofu and sautéed vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Feel free to drizzle your favorite sauce on top for extra flavor.

Pro Tips

Pressing the tofu is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture. Experiment with different vegetables based on what you have on hand or what's in season.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

For meal prep enthusiasts, storing your components separately is key to maintaining their texture. Allow the crispy tofu to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, but to retain its crunch, consider reheating it in an oven or air fryer rather than a microwave. By doing this, you can restore its crispiness with just a few minutes of warmth.

The garlic rice can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge. It typically lasts for about 4 to 5 days when kept sealed. For the best reheating results, add a splash of water and microwave the rice in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent it from drying out. This technique ensures your rice stays moist and flavorful, ready to complement the reheated crispy tofu and vegetables beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your tofu isn't getting crispy enough, it may be due to excess moisture. Make sure to press it thoroughly and, if possible, let it sit for a bit after pressing to remove even more water. Additionally, ensure that the oil is hot enough before adding the tofu; a test drop of cornstarch should sizzle immediately. If it doesn't, your tofu may steam instead of fry, resulting in a less than desirable texture.

For the rice, be mindful of the liquid ratio. If you find your rice comes out too sticky, it likely needs less liquid or slightly more cooking time with the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. Conversely, if it’s too dry, consider adjusting your cooking method with a little more water next time to achieve that fluffy perfection.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this dish is easy, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep for the week ahead. If you're looking to double the recipe, simply double the quantities for the tofu, rice, and vegetables while ensuring your cooking equipment can accommodate the larger batch, especially for frying the tofu. Cooking in smaller batches can prevent overcrowding in the pan, resulting in better texture and even frying.

For larger portions, you might also want to consider preparing a variety of sauces on the side, such as teriyaki or peanut sauce, to offer different flavor profiles for each bowl. This customization allows everyone to enjoy their bowl just the way they like it, and it adds an exciting touch that keeps the meal interesting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of rice?

Yes, you can substitute jasmine rice with brown rice or quinoa for added nutrition.

→ What can I use instead of tofu?

You can replace tofu with tempeh or seitan, adjusting cooking times as needed.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based, making this dish suitable for vegans.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure your vegetable broth is also gluten-free.