Tofu Fried Rice

Hey y'all! If you're craving a savory, satisfying meal that's quick to whip up and packed with wholesome flavor, you've got to try this Tofu Fried Rice. With golden, crispy tofu, vibrant veggies, and a deliciously seasoned rice, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser—perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you're in the mood for something tasty and nutritious. Ready to stir-fry something awesome? Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This

• It's completely plant-based but satisfyingly hearty and protein-rich.
• Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
• Customizable with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
• Great for using up leftover rice and reducing food waste.
• Perfect balance of crispy, soft, and umami flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

• 14 oz (400g) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 3 cups cooked jasmine or long-grain rice (preferably cold, day-old)
• 2 tablespoon vegetable oil, divided
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
• ½ cup diced red bell pepper
• 3 green onions, sliced (whites and greens separated)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for coating the tofu)
• Optional: Sriracha or chili flakes, lime wedges, and sesame seeds for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Prep and Crisp the Tofu

1. Gently press the tofu using paper towels or a tofu press to remove excess moisture.
2. Cut tofu into ½-inch cubes and toss them with cornstarch and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook, turning occasionally, for 7-8 minutes until all sides are golden and crispy. Transfer tofu to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies

4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
5. Sauté the garlic, ginger, and whites of green onions for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add the peas, carrots, and diced bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the veggies are just tender but still vibrant.

Step 3: Fry the Rice

7. Add the cold rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
8. Increase heat to high and stir-fry everything together for about 3 minutes, allowing the rice to get slightly crispy.

Step 4: Season and Finish

9. Return the crispy tofu to the pan. Toss everything together with soy sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and most of the green onion tops.
10. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes, then taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
11. Serve hot, garnished with extra green onion, sesame seeds, sriracha, or lime wedges if desired.

Notes

• Using day-old rice prevents sogginess and helps achieve a classic fried rice texture.
• Pressing the tofu thoroughly is key to getting crispier cubes.
• Don't overcrowd the pan when crisping tofu; work in batches if needed.

Variations

• Spicy Tofu Fried Rice: Add extra sriracha or chili flakes when stir-frying.
• Pineapple Tofu Fried Rice: Toss in ½ cup diced pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Mushroom & Tofu Fried Rice: Stir in 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms with the veggies for rich umami flavor.

Required Equipment

• Large nonstick skillet or wok
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Tofu press or heavy object for pressing tofu
• Measuring cups and spoons

Storage Instructions

Let any leftovers cool to room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Freezing is possible but may change the texture of the tofu and vegetables; if frozen, store for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

• Serve alongside steamed dumplings or spring rolls for a full Asian-inspired meal.
• Enjoy with a tangy cucumber salad or miso soup for added freshness.
• Top with avocado slices or a fried egg (if not vegan) for extra richness.

Pro Tips

• Make sure your rice is cold and slightly dried out for the perfect fried rice texture.
• Always use high heat when frying the rice to create those delicious crispy bits.
• Taste and adjust seasoning at the end—soy sauces vary in saltiness!

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice works great and adds a nutty flavor; just make sure it's cooked and cooled first.

Is there a way to make this dish soy-free?

You can substitute tofu with cooked chickpeas or tempeh and use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I add more vegetables to the fried rice?

Yes! Feel free to toss in broccoli, snap peas, corn, or any vegetables you have on hand.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

★★★★★ 4.60 from 42 ratings

Tofu Fried Rice

yield: 4 servings

prep: 15 mins

cook: 20 mins

total: 35 mins

A flavorful and satisfying Tofu Fried Rice loaded with vegetables, golden tofu cubes, and aromatic seasonings. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty lunch option.

🖨️ Print Pin Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 block (400g) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. 1
   Press tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into small cubes.
2. 2
   In a large non-stick skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. 3
   Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then add carrots and peas. Cook for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. 4
   Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. 5
   Return tofu to the pan, pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, and toss everything to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6
   Stir in green onions, cook for another minute, and serve hot.

CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO ↑

Approximate Information for One Serving

Serving Size: 1 serving

Calories: 350 caloriescal

Protein: 13gg

Fat: 12gg

Saturated Fat: 0g

Trans Fat: 0g

Cholesterol: 0mg

Sodium: 0mg

Potassium: 0mg

Total Carbs: 46gg

Fiber: 0g

Sugar: 0g

Net Carbs: 0g

Vitamin A: 0

Vitamin C: 0mg

Calcium: 0mg

Iron: 0mg

Nutrition Disclaimers

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.

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