Crispy Tofu Sesame Rice Bowl

Name: Crispy Tofu Sesame Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 block firm tofu; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 carrot, julienned; 1/2 cucumber, sliced; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; Sesame seeds for garnish; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love this Crispy Tofu Sesame Rice Bowl! It combines hearty tofu with a crisp outside and fluffy rice to create a satisfying meal. The blend of sesame oil and soy sauce gives it an irresistible umami flavor, while fresh vegetables add a nice crunch. Preparing this bowl is straightforward and perfect for those busy weeknights when I crave something comforting yet nutritious. The balance of textures and flavors keeps me coming back for more, and I can whip it up in just under 30 minutes!

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:04:41.587Z

When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I couldn’t believe how well the tofu turned out – crispy on the outside and tender on the inside! I discovered that pressing the tofu before cooking makes a world of difference, allowing it to absorb more flavor and reduce excess moisture. This helped achieve that perfect crunch I was aiming for.

Your toppings can be as creative as you want; I often use pickled ginger and fresh cilantro to enhance the dish further. It’s fun to experiment with various seasonings; this bowl never gets boring!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy, golden-brown tofu that adds an amazing crunch
Rich sesame flavor that complements the rice perfectly
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies and sauces

      

The Importance of Tofu Quality

When selecting tofu for your Crispy Tofu Sesame Rice Bowl, opt for extra-firm or firm tofu as these varieties hold their shape better during cooking. Firm tofu is less watery, making it perfect for achieving that desired crispiness. I recommend pressing the tofu for at least 15 minutes before cooking to remove excess moisture. Using a clean kitchen towel and a heavy pan can effectively help with this process. The drier the tofu, the better the crispy texture you'll achieve.

Tofu can be a versatile canvas for flavors, so don't hesitate to marinate it for extra depth. A simple marinade of soy sauce and sesame oil, left on for around 30 minutes, enhances the tofu’s flavor without overpowering the dish. However, if you're short on time, seasoning just before cooking with salt and pepper works well too.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

Achieving fluffy jasmine rice is crucial for balancing the crispy tofu in this bowl. After rinsing the rice until the water runs clear, you can cook it either in a rice cooker or on the stove. If using the stove, combine 1 cup of rinsed rice with 1.5 cups of water, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover for about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, allow it to sit covered for another 5 minutes to finish steaming, yielding the fluffiest texture.

Consider adding a pinch of salt or a dash of sesame oil to the cooking water for an extra layer of flavor. Once the rice is done, fluff it gently with a fork. This not only enhances the rice’s texture but also helps it absorb the flavors from the sauce and the tofu.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the beauties of this Crispy Tofu Sesame Rice Bowl is its adaptability. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preferences. Broccoli and bell peppers work wonderfully, as does adding edamame for a protein boost. Just make sure to cut your veggies into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and a consistent bite.

If you're looking for additional layers of flavor, consider adding a spicy element like sriracha or chili flakes to your sauce or drizzling some on top for a kick. For a crunchier texture, you might even top your bowl with crushed nuts or crispy shallots. Cooking is all about exploration and finding out what combinations you love!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious Crispy Tofu Sesame Rice Bowl:

Ingredients

1 block firm tofu
1 cup jasmine rice
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 carrot, julienned
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

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

Prepare the Rice

Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions, typically in a rice cooker or on the stove.

Cook the Tofu

Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut into cubes and season with salt and pepper. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat, add the tofu, and cook until crispy, about 6-7 minutes per side.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and rice vinegar. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Assemble the Bowl

In a serving bowl, add cooked rice, crispy tofu, carrots, cucumbers, and green onions. Drizzle with the sauce and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.

Enjoy your delicious bowl!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in soy sauce for 10 minutes before cooking. You can also add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers or snap peas.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Crispy Tofu Sesame Rice Bowl is easy to make ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep. Cooked rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The crispy tofu can also be prepared in advance; just be aware that it may lose some crispiness while stored. To re-crisp the tofu, simply pop it in a hot skillet for a few minutes before serving.

Fresh veggies can be chopped and stored separately in the refrigerator, but avoid slicing them too far ahead as they may lose their freshness. Assemble your bowls right before eating; this keeps everything at its best texture and flavor. Just drizzle the sauce over the assembled bowl to retain the element of crunch.

Serving Suggestions

For a more filling option, consider serving your rice bowl with a side of miso soup or steamed dumplings. This creates a comforting meal that is not only satisfying but also visually appealing on the table. If you enjoy heat, a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables can bring a delightful tanginess and spice to your meal.

To elevate the flavor profile further, serve your bowl with toasted sesame oil drizzled on top right before serving, or even a spritz of lime juice for a refreshing contrast. Pairing your rice bowl with a light salad can also help balance the richness of the sesame and soy sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of rice?

Yes, you can substitute jasmine rice with brown rice, quinoa, or any rice of your choice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This dish is 100% vegan and packed with plant-based protein from tofu.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this recipe gluten-free.