Vegan Korean BBQ Tofu Bowls: A Flavor-Packed Plant-Based Delight
KEY INFO:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 350 per serving
Protein: 15g
Carbs: 40g
Fat: 12g
Difficulty: Medium
Dietary Tags: Vegan, Gluten-Free Option
EQUIPMENT NEEDED:
- Large skillet or wok
- Tofu press (or kitchen towel)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowls
GAME-CHANGING TIP: Press your tofu for at least 20 minutes to guarantee maximum crispiness!
INGREDIENTS:
Tofu Base:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
Korean BBQ Sauce:
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch fresh ginger, grated
Veggie Mix:
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 broccoli crown, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- Optional: Red cabbage
METHOD:
1. Tofu Prep
- Drain tofu completely
- Press between towels with weight
- Cut into 1-inch cubes
- Toss cubes in cornstarch
2. Crispy Tofu Magic
- Heat sesame oil in skillet
- Fry tofu until golden brown (6-8 minutes)
- Flip to ensure even crispiness
- Remove and set aside
3. Sauce Creation
- Combine all sauce ingredients
- Whisk thoroughly
- Simmer until slightly thickened
- Should coat back of spoon
4. Vegetable Sauté
- Use same skillet
- Quick fry vegetables
- Keep veggies bright and crisp
- Cook 5-7 minutes
5. Final Assembly
- Layer rice in bowl
- Add crispy tofu
- Pile on vegetables
- Drizzle sauce generously
PRO TIPS:
- Don’t overcrowd pan when frying tofu
- Use high heat for crispy exterior
- Taste and adjust sauce sweetness
STORAGE HACKS:
- Refrigerate components separately
- Best consumed within 3-4 days
- Reheat in skillet to maintain crispiness
FLAVOR VARIATIONS:
- Swap tofu for tempeh
- Add pineapple chunks
- Use quinoa instead of rice
NUTRITIONAL BOOST:
This bowl delivers:
- Complete plant protein
- Complex carbohydrates
- Essential minerals
- Low-cholesterol option
COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID:
- Soggy tofu (press thoroughly!)
- Burning sauce (low and slow)
- Overcooking vegetables
SPICE LEVEL CONTROL:
- Mild: 1/2 tablespoon gochujang
- Medium: 1 tablespoon
- Spicy: 1.5 tablespoons
Why You’ll Love This:
Fast. Flavorful. Foolproof. A restaurant-quality meal you can crush in your own kitchen.
Cooking is an adventure. This Korean BBQ Tofu Bowl is your ticket to flavor town – no passport required! 🔥🥢