Crispy Tofu Bowl with Summer Slaw: A Flavorful Delight

Name: Crispy Tofu Bowl with Summer Slaw
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu; 2 cups cabbage, shredded; 1 cup carrots, grated; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup; Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying; Sesame seeds for garnish

Published: June 25, 2025

by Liora

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This crispy tofu bowl with summer slaw is easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners effortless and fun.
The flavor profile boasts a perfect balance of crunch, zest, and umami satisfaction.
Visually appealing with its colorful ingredients, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences or seasonal produce.

Ingredients for Crispy tofu bowl with summer slaw

For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Firm Tofu: Look for high-quality firm tofu for the best texture; it holds its shape while crisping up beautifully.
Fresh Vegetables: Pick seasonal favorites like cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers for the slaw; their crunch complements the tofu perfectly.
Rice Vinegar: This adds a tangy kick to your slaw; opt for unseasoned rice vinegar for better flavor control.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce keeps the dish savory without overwhelming saltiness; it’s essential for marinating the tofu.

For the Slaw Dressing:

Sesame Oil: A little drizzle goes a long way in enhancing flavors with its nutty aroma; use toasted sesame oil if available.
Honey or Maple Syrup: This adds sweetness to balance the vinegar’s acidity; choose according to your dietary preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Crispy tofu bowl with summer slaw

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Tofu

Start by pressing the firm tofu between paper towels or clean kitchen towels for about 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. This step is vital for achieving that coveted crispy texture.

Step 2: Cut and Marinate

Once pressed, cut the tofu into cubes or slabs (your choice). In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce and sesame oil. Add tofu pieces and let them marinate while you prepare the veggies.

Step 3: Make Your Summer Slaw

In another bowl, toss together thinly sliced cabbage, grated carrots, and chopped bell peppers. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper to create your dressing.

Step 4: Cook the Tofu

Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated tofu pieces in batches (don’t crowd the pan) and fry until each side turns golden brown—about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl

Once cooked, place crispy tofu atop your colorful slaw mix in bowls. Drizzle with leftover dressing from the slaw preparation and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added crunch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer to plates and enjoy immediately while everything’s still warm! Feel free to add additional toppings like avocado or fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy.

There you have it! A delightful crispy tofu bowl with summer slaw that tastes incredible while keeping things light and fresh. Enjoy every mouthful and relish those vibrant flavors!

You Must Know

This crispy tofu bowl with summer slaw is not just a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of flavors.
It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend brunch.
Enjoy the crunch and freshness in every bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture; this helps achieve that crispy texture. While the tofu marinates, whip up your vibrant summer slaw. Fry the tofu until golden brown, then assemble your bowl with slaw and toppings for a delightful meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your pantry! Try adding avocado for creaminess or use different veggies in your slaw. You can also play with spices to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste buds.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pan-fry the tofu again for that crispy finish while keeping the slaw fresh and crunchy by adding it just before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly crispy tofu, make sure to press it well before cooking.
Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even frying.
Use a mix of colorful veggies for a more visually appealing dish.

I once made this crispy tofu bowl with summer slaw for my friends’ potluck, and they were so impressed they asked for seconds—truthfully, I think they just wanted to keep up with their New Year’s resolutions!

FAQs :

What is a crispy tofu bowl with summer slaw?

A crispy tofu bowl with summer slaw is a delightful dish that combines marinated, fried tofu with a refreshing slaw made from seasonal vegetables. The tofu provides protein and texture, while the slaw adds a crunchy, tangy element to the meal. strawberry arugula salad This dish is perfect for those seeking a flavorful, plant-based option that celebrates the vibrant flavors of summer.

How do you make crispy tofu for the bowl?

To create crispy tofu for your bowl, start by pressing extra-firm tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut it into cubes and marinate it in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for enhanced flavor. Coat the tofu pieces in cornstarch before frying them in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. This method ensures each piece is packed with flavor and has an irresistible crunch.

What ingredients are needed for summer slaw?

The summer slaw typically includes fresh vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers. You can also add herbs like cilantro or parsley for extra freshness. The slaw dressing usually consists of lime juice, honey or maple syrup, and a splash of rice vinegar to balance the flavors. Feel free to customize it based on your favorite summer veggies.

Can I make the crispy tofu bowl ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare some components of your crispy tofu bowl ahead of time. Cooked tofu can be refrigerated for up to three days before serving. However, for the best texture, it’s ideal to fry it fresh just before serving. You can also prepare the summer slaw a few hours in advance; just keep it chilled until ready to serve.

Conclusion for Crispy Tofu Bowl with Summer Slaw :

In conclusion, a crispy tofu bowl with summer slaw is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Combining crispy marinated tofu with a refreshing vegetable slaw creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for warm weather dining. crispy chickpea wraps Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe delivers on flavor and nutrition while celebrating seasonal ingredients. Enjoy every bite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card