Delicious Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl for Dinner

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Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl has become one of my favorite meals for its incredible flavor and satisfying texture. This vibrant vegan dish features crispy, golden tofu cubes coated in a sweet and spicy glaze, served over warm sushi rice. Topped with fresh edamame, cucumber, and avocado, and finished with a creamy vegan Yum Yum sauce, this bowl is not only delicious but also gluten-free. Each bite is a delightful blend of tastes and textures that makes for a nutritious meal option.

Why You’ll Love This Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl

This sticky tofu bowl is not just tasty; it’s packed with benefits. Here are some reasons to love it:

It’s a quick and easy meal, perfect for weeknights.
Offers a healthy dose of plant-based protein from tofu.
Rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables.
Highly customizable with various toppings and ingredients.
Ideal for meal prep, saving you time during busy days.
Great for anyone, whether vegan or not, looking for a filling dish.

This dish is a fantastic Asian-style tofu bowl and is sure to impress your dinner guests!

Ingredients for Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl

Gather these items:

14-ounce block extra firm tofu (organic if possible)
2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
3 tablespoons soy sauce, GF Liquid aminos, or gluten-free tamari
3 tablespoons maple syrup
1-2 tablespoons sriracha or red chili sauce (sambal oelek)
1 teaspoon minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
½ cup vegan mayo (Follow Your Heart brand made with avocado oil recommended)
1-2 tablespoons sriracha or sambal oelek (or for zero spice, use tomato paste)
1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
2 teaspoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon grated ginger
4-5 cups cooked sushi rice, brown rice or jasmine rice (serve warm, cold, or at room temp)
2 cups shelled edamame
1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
1-2 avocados, diced
¼ cup crispy onions
½ cup cilantro
½ cup green onions, sliced

How to Make Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl Step-by-Step

Step 1: Start cooking your rice early so it’s ready when assembling the bowls. Sushi rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice all work well.
Step 2: Blot the tofu to remove excess liquid using paper towels. Cut into ¾ inch cubes and let rest on paper towels to further drain while you prepare the sauces.
Step 3: Whisk together the sticky glaze ingredients—soy sauce, maple syrup, sriracha, and garlic—in one small bowl. In another small bowl, whisk the Yum Yum sauce ingredients including vegan mayo, sriracha or tomato paste, maple syrup, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and grated ginger. These sauces can be prepped up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge.
Step 4: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in an extra-large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add salt and cracked pepper directly to the oil and swirl to coat. Once fragrant, gently place the tofu cubes in the hot pan without crowding or dumping them in. Cook without moving for 4-5 minutes until deeply golden. Flip each piece and cook an additional 4-5 minutes, lowering the heat if they darken too quickly.
Step 5: Pour the sticky glaze over the cooked tofu and gently fold with a rubber spatula to coat all pieces evenly. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes so it thickens slightly, then turn off the heat. Taste and adjust salt or spice levels as desired.
Step 6: Divide the cooked rice among four bowls. Top with shelled edamame, thinly sliced cucumber, and diced avocado. Add the sticky glazed tofu cubes on top.
Step 7: Drizzle the bowls generously with the Yum Yum sauce (reserve extra on the side). Garnish with crispy onions, fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions for an extra burst of flavor and crunch.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl

Keep these in mind:

Use extra firm tofu for the best texture in your glazed tofu dish.
Prepare the sauces ahead of time for an easy weeknight meal.
Experiment with toppings like sesame seeds or radishes for added crunch.
Make sure your rice is warm when assembling the bowls for the best experience.

Best Ways to Serve Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl

Here are a few serving ideas for this dish:

Serve with a side of steamed broccoli for extra greens.
Pair with a refreshing salad for a lightened-up meal.
Top with sliced jalapeños for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their plant-based sticky glazed tofu bowl.

How to Store and Reheat Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl

To store, keep your marinated tofu rice bowl components separate in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat the rice and tofu in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring not to overcook the tofu.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl

What’s the secret to perfect Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl?

The key is pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture, allowing it to absorb the sweet glaze better. This ensures you get that crispy texture that pairs beautifully with the tofu with sweet glaze.

Can I make Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the tofu and sauces ahead, storing everything separately in the fridge. Assemble the bowl just before serving for the best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl?

Avoid crowding the pan when cooking tofu, as it can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding tofu for that perfect golden crisp.

Variations of Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl You Can Try

Consider these tasty variations:

Swap the tofu for tempeh for a different texture and flavor.
Use quinoa instead of rice for a protein boost.
Try different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for a colorful twist.

Delicious Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl for Dinner - Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl - main visual representation

Delicious Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl for Dinner - Sticky Glazed Tofu Bowl - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs or Taco Rice Bowl with Doritos. You can also learn about the benefits of tofu in this Healthline article on tofu.