Ingredients
For the Tofu:
- 16 oz (450g) extra-firm tofu
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vegetable oil (for greasing the baking sheet)
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1/4 cup water
- 1-2 tsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tsp rice vinegar
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup edamame beans, blanched
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 4-5 radishes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium ripe avocado, sliced
- Black and white sesame seeds, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Prepare 1 cup of cooked white rice by following the package instructions, using 1/2 cup of uncooked rice. Set aside once done.
- Press the Tofu: Use a tofu press or wrap the tofu block in a kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top for 30 minutes to 2 hours to remove excess moisture for crispier tofu.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Tofu: Preheat your oven to 390ºF (200ºC). Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes and place them in a bowl. Add 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sriracha, and freshly cracked black pepper; toss to coat evenly.
- Coat with Cornstarch: Sprinkle 2 tbsp of cornstarch over the tofu cubes and toss again until each piece is lightly dusted, ensuring crispiness after baking.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Lightly grease a baking sheet with 1 tsp vegetable oil using a pastry brush or use a cooking spray. Arrange the tofu cubes spaced apart to allow steam to escape.
- Bake the Tofu: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Make the Peanut Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter, 1/4 cup water, 1-2 tsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sriracha, 1 tsp sesame oil, and 2 tsp rice vinegar until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more soy sauce, sriracha, or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
- Assemble the Bowl: In large serving bowls, layer the cooked white rice at the bottom. Top with crispy tofu, thinly sliced red cabbage, blanched edamame beans, julienned carrot, radish slices, and sliced avocado.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the prepared peanut sauce generously over the bowl and sprinkle with black and white sesame seeds if using. Serve immediately and enjoy your balanced tofu Buddha bowl!
Notes
- Pressing the tofu is essential for achieving a crispy texture when baked.
- You can substitute white rice with brown rice or quinoa for added fiber.
- Adjust sriracha quantities based on your preferred spice level.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Peanut sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add a drizzle of maple syrup to the peanut sauce for a touch of sweetness if desired.
- Ensure tofu pieces are spaced out on the baking sheet to prevent steaming and to maximize crispiness.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
- Diet: Vegan