Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
Tofu dreams really do come true with this Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl. This vibrant and filling vegan burrito bowl combines spicy baked tofu, cilantro lime rice, roasted peppers, black beans, and creamy avocado. Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner, it’s versatile enough for any occasion and sure to impress anyone who tries it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious bowl in no time.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite bursts with flavor from the spicy tahini dressing and perfectly cooked tofu.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is great for meal prepping; enjoy it throughout the week without losing freshness.
- Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein from tofu and fiber from beans and veggies, this bowl is as healthy as it is tasty.
- Customizable Options: Easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make cooking more enjoyable and efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Allows even cooking of tofu and vegetables while ensuring they don’t stick.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and safe.
Ingredients
To create your delicious Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl, gather the following ingredients:
For the Rice
- 1 batch cilantro lime rice or Vegan Mexican Rice
For the Protein
- 1 block extra firm tofu
- 1 can black beans
For the Vegetables
- 1 red pepper
- 1 orange pepper
- 1 avocado
For the Dressing
- 1 batch spicy tahini dressing
For Flavoring
- 2 tablespoons sriracha
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons corn starch or arrowroot starch
- 1-2 teaspoon coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2-1 teaspoon salt
How to Make Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Prepare the Tofu
- Remove the tofu from its package and drain out excess liquid.
- Place the tofu between two towels and put a heavy object on top (books or a pan) to press for 5–10 minutes. Pressing helps achieve a crisp texture.
Step 3: Mix Spice Mixture
While the tofu presses, mix together:
Coconut sugar
Corn starch
Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Chili powder
Salt
Step 4: Cube the Tofu
Chop the pressed tofu into cubes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
Step 5: Combine Oil and Sriracha
In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and sriracha.
Step 6: Coat Tofu with Sauce
Add half of the oil/sriracha mixture to the cubed tofu. Toss gently to coat. Set aside the remaining mixture for later use.
Step 7: Add Spice Mixture to Tofu
Toss the cubed tofu with the spice mixture until well coated.
Step 8: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the coated tofu on one side of the baking sheet.
Step 9: Prepare Peppers
De-seed and chop red and orange peppers into strips. Place them on the same baking sheet away from tofu to allow proper crisping.
Step 10: Season Peppers
Drizzle olive oil over peppers (about 1–2 teaspoons) to prevent sticking. Sprinkle lightly with salt.
Step 11: Bake Tofu & Peppers
Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, brush remaining sriracha mixture on top of tofu and continue baking for an additional 10–15 minutes until crispy.
Step 12: Assemble Bowls
Assemble each bowl by adding cilantro lime rice, warmed black beans, roasted peppers, crispy tofu, sliced avocado, spicy tahini dressing, and salsa if desired. Enjoy your delicious Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl!
How to Serve Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
Serving your Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl can be as creative as you like. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways, making it perfect for any meal.
Bowl with Extra Toppings
- Salsa: Add a fresh layer of flavor by topping your bowl with homemade or store-bought salsa.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for an extra burst of freshness.
- Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the bowl just before eating.
Wrap it Up
- Burrito Style: Use large tortillas to wrap all ingredients into a burrito for a handheld version.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the filling.
Meal Prep Containers
- Individual Portions: Prepare each bowl in separate containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
- Layering Ingredients: Layer rice at the bottom, followed by beans, tofu, and toppings to keep everything fresh.
How to Perfect Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
To achieve the ultimate Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl, follow these simple tips that will elevate your dish.
- Use Extra Firm Tofu: Choose extra firm tofu to ensure it crisps up nicely when baked.
- Press Tofu Longer: Pressing tofu longer helps remove moisture, resulting in a better texture.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices based on your taste preferences; try adding cumin or chili powder for extra heat.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread out the tofu and vegetables on a baking sheet so they bake evenly and don’t steam.
Best Side Dishes for Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
Pairing side dishes with your Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options.
- Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with corn, tomatoes, and avocado adds sweetness and crunch.
- Guacamole: This creamy dip complements the flavors of the bowl and is perfect for scooping up with tortilla chips.
- Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa make a great crunchy side that everyone loves.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add depth and additional nutrients to your meal.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies provides another protein source that pairs well with tofu.
- Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad balances the spice of the burrito bowl perfectly and adds freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Not pressing the tofu: Failing to press the tofu can lead to a soggy texture. Always press it for at least 5-10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: If you place too much tofu or vegetables on one baking sheet, they may steam instead of crisping up. Give them enough space for even cooking.
- Skipping the seasoning: Underseasoned tofu can taste bland. Make sure to coat it well with spices for maximum flavor.
- Ignoring cooking times: Overbaking or underbaking can affect the texture. Keep an eye on your tofu and peppers as they bake to get that perfect crispiness.
- Serving without toppings: Toppings add freshness and creaminess. Don’t forget the avocado and spicy tahini dressing for a complete flavor experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Keep components separate if possible, especially the avocado, to maintain freshness.
Freezing Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
- Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Consider freezing tofu and rice separately for best results.
Reheating Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) until hot, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl.
Can I customize the Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl?
Absolutely! You can add your favorite veggies or swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand.
What type of tofu is best for this recipe?
Extra firm tofu works best as it holds its shape during baking and provides a satisfying texture.
How do I make vegan Mexican rice?
You can easily make it by adding lime juice, cilantro, and spices to cooked rice.
How spicy is the Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl?
The spice level depends on how much sriracha you use. Adjust it according to your taste preference for heat.
Final Thoughts
The Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner. Feel free to customize it with different veggies or toppings based on your preferences. Enjoy this comforting dish that satisfies both your cravings and nutritional needs!
Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl, a delightful vegan dish that seamlessly combines spicy baked tofu, fluffy cilantro lime rice, roasted peppers, and creamy avocado. This nourishing bowl is perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner, offering a satisfying taste experience that will impress both vegans and non-vegans alike. With a burst of flavor from the spicy tahini dressing and a medley of nutrient-rich ingredients, this recipe is easy to customize to suit your preferences. Enjoy a wholesome meal packed with protein from tofu and fiber from black beans and colorful veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 block extra firm tofu
- 1 can black beans
- 1 batch cilantro lime rice
- 1 red pepper
- 1 orange pepper
- 1 avocado
- 2 tablespoons sriracha
- 1 batch spicy tahini dressing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Press the tofu between towels for 5–10 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cube it.
- In a bowl, mix coconut sugar, corn starch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine olive oil and sriracha; coat the cubed tofu with half of this mixture.
- Toss the tofu with the spice mixture until well coated.
- Spread the tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet alongside sliced peppers drizzled with olive oil and salt.
- Bake for 20 minutes; then brush the remaining sriracha mixture on tofu and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until crispy.
- Assemble bowls with rice, black beans, roasted peppers, crispy tofu, avocado slices, and drizzle with tahini dressing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
