Spicy Tofu Salad Bowls Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful Spicy Tofu Salad Bowl featuring crispy pan-fried tofu, fresh crunchy vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing. This easy-to-make recipe combines a balance of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors perfect for a light and healthy meal.
- Author: Dylan
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Tofu and Seasoning
- 8 oz tofu
- 2 tbsp hot sauce
- 2 tbsp oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Vegetables
- 1 small head romaine lettuce, roughly chopped
- ½ English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 small head red cabbage, shredded
- 1–2 green onions, sliced
- ½ cup carrot, shredded
Dressing
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp tamari
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp honey
- ¼ tsp garlic, minced
- ½ tsp ginger, minced
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
Garnish
- ¼ cup roasted peanuts
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, for serving
- Prepare the tofu: Drain the tofu well by pressing out as much moisture as possible. Pat it dry with a clean towel, then slice into bite-sized ½-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Prep the vegetables: Roughly chop the romaine lettuce, thinly slice the cucumber, shred the red cabbage and carrots, and slice the green onions. Combine all the veggies in a large salad bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, tamari, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame seeds until well combined and smooth. Set aside.
- Cook the tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes and cook for 6-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until they turn golden and crispy on all sides. Season with salt, pepper, and dashes of hot sauce to add a spicy kick. Remove tofu from skillet and set aside.
- Assemble the salad: Pour the dressing over the prepared vegetables, then add the cooked tofu cubes. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Serve: Plate the salad bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro, roasted peanuts, and lime wedges for an extra fresh and crunchy finish. Enjoy while the tofu is still warm!
Notes
- Pressing the tofu is essential to achieve crispy texture.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your preferred spice level.
- Can be made vegan by using maple syrup or agave instead of honey.
- Serve immediately for best texture, as the tofu may soften if left too long in the dressing.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days but may lose some crispiness.
Keywords: spicy tofu salad, tofu salad bowl, crispy tofu recipe, healthy tofu salad, vegetarian salad, Asian tofu salad