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Crispy Tofu Buddha Bowl Recipe with Creamy Tahini Dressing

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A vibrant and comforting Buddha bowl featuring crispy pan-fried tofu, fresh veggies, quinoa or brown rice, and a nutty creamy tahini dressing. Perfect for quick, healthy meals and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz (400g) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice (about 185g cooked quinoa)
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
  • 1 medium carrot, shredded or thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup edamame, shelled (optional)
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 3–4 tbsp warm water
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnishes: toasted sesame seeds, chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu by wrapping it in a clean towel and placing a heavy object on top for at least 20 minutes to remove excess water.
  2. Cook 1 cup (185g) quinoa with 2 cups (475ml) water according to package instructions (about 15 minutes). Fluff and set aside.
  3. Cut pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Toss tofu with soy sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
  4. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook tofu cubes in a single layer for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  5. Steam broccoli florets until bright green and tender (3-4 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  6. Prepare veggies: shred carrots, slice avocado, thinly slice red cabbage, and steam or thaw edamame if using.
  7. Make the tahini dressing by whisking tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add warm water gradually until creamy and pourable.
  8. Assemble the bowl with quinoa or rice as the base. Arrange tofu, broccoli, carrots, cabbage, avocado, and edamame on top.
  9. Drizzle generously with tahini dressing and garnish with toasted sesame seeds, fresh herbs, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  10. Serve immediately for best texture.

Notes

Press tofu well to ensure crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Adjust tahini dressing consistency with warm water. Can bake tofu at 400°F for 25-30 minutes as an alternative to pan-frying.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy tofu, Buddha bowl, tahini dressing, vegan, gluten-free, healthy meal, quinoa bowl, plant-based, easy recipe

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/crispy-tofu-buddha-bowl-recipe-with-creamy-tahini-dressing-easy-guide/