Crispy Tofu Buddha Bowls

In recent years, Buddha bowls have surged in popularity, captivating the hearts and palates of health-conscious individuals and food enthusiasts alike. These vibrant, nourishing meals are characterized by their diverse array of ingredients, combining various textures and flavors into a single, visually appealing dish. At the forefront of this trend is the crispy tofu Buddha bowl, which not only embodies the essence of a balanced meal but also offers a delightful culinary experience. With their plant-based protein source and an abundance of fresh vegetables, crispy tofu Buddha bowls are an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their diet with nutritious and satisfying options.

Discover the delicious world of Crispy Tofu Buddha Bowls! These vibrant meals are packed with plant-based protein, fresh vegetables, and whole grains, making them a nourishing and satisfying option for any diet. Learn how to achieve perfectly crispy tofu with a simple marinating and baking technique, then layer colorful ingredients for a bowl that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Perfect for meal prep or enjoying on a busy weeknight, these bowls will inspire your culinary creativity and keep you energized throughout your day.

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Ingredients

1 block firm tofu, thoroughly pressed and drained

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 cups cooked quinoa (or brown rice)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup shredded carrots

1 ripe avocado, sliced

1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens

2 tablespoons sesame seeds

2 tablespoons chopped green onions

Optional: Chili flakes, for an extra kick

For the Dressing:

3 tablespoons tahini

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)

2 tablespoons water (for thinning)

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu: Begin by pressing the tofu to eliminate any excess moisture. This will help achieve a crispier texture. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and sesame oil. Add the tofu cubes to the bowl and gently toss them in the marinade. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Coat and Bake the Tofu: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After marinating the tofu, sprinkle the cornstarch over the cubes and toss to coat them evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then spread the tofu cubes out in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tofu is golden and crispy, flipping the cubes halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Make the Dressing: While the tofu is in the oven, prepare the dressing. In a small mixing bowl, combine tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, and water. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the dressing is too thick for your liking, gradually add a little more water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Buddha Bowls: In a large bowl or plate, create a base layer with your cooked quinoa or brown rice. Arrange the crispy tofu cubes on top of the grain layer. Next, artfully place the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, shredded carrots, sliced avocado, and baby spinach around the tofu to create a vibrant and appealing dish.

Garnish and Serve: Drizzle the prepared tahini dressing generously over the assembled bowls. Finish off by sprinkling sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top. If you enjoy a bit of spice, feel free to add chili flakes for a flavorful kick. Serve immediately and indulge in your colorful, nutritious meal!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 2 servings