Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
Tofu dreams really do come true with this Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl. This vibrant vegan dish combines spicy baked tofu, cilantro lime rice, roasted peppers, black beans, and creamy avocado. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, this bowl is not only delicious but also visually appealing. You’ll love the flavor explosion in every bite, making it suitable for any occasion—from casual lunches to festive gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Spicy: The combination of sriracha and spices gives this burrito bowl a delightful kick.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Easily prepare ahead for busy days; just store in the fridge and enjoy later!
- Customizable Ingredients: Switch up the veggies or toppings based on your preferences for a unique bowl every time.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from tofu and fiber from beans, this dish is both filling and wholesome.
- Vegan Delight: A plant-based meal that everyone can enjoy, whether vegan or not!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls (large and small)
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the tofu and peppers evenly without sticking.
- Mixing bowls: Helps in combining ingredients easily without mess.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts of vegetables and tofu for even cooking.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl:
For the Base
- 1 batch cilantro lime rice or Vegan Mexican Rice
- 1 can black beans
- 1 avocado
For the Veggies
- 1 red pepper
- 1 orange pepper
For the Dressing
- 1 batch spicy tahini dressing
For the Tofu
- 1 block extra firm tofu
- 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. This ensures your tofu will cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Tofu
- Remove the tofu from its package and drain out excess liquid.
- Place it between two towels and put a heavy object on top (like a few books or a teapot) to press it. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to help crisp it up.
Step 3: Mix Spices
While the tofu is pressing, mix together these ingredients in a bowl:
Coconut sugar
Corn starch
Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Chili powder
Salt
Step 4: Cube the Tofu
Chop pressed tofu into cubes and add them to a large mixing bowl.
Step 5: Combine Oil and Sriracha
In another small bowl, mix together olive oil and sriracha.
Step 6: Coat the Tofu
Add half of your oil/sriracha mixture to the cubed tofu. Toss lightly to coat.
Step 7: Add Spice Mixture
Toss tofu with the spice mixture until well coated.
Step 8: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the coated tofu evenly on one side.
Step 9: Chop Peppers
De-seed and chop red and orange peppers into strips. Place them on the same baking sheet but keep them away from the tofu for best crisping results.
Step 10: Drizzle Peppers
Drizzle chopped peppers with olive oil (just 1–2 tsp) so they don’t stick, then sprinkle with salt.
Step 11: Bake
Bake everything in the oven for about 20 minutes. After that time, brush remaining sriracha mixture on top of the tofu.
Step 12: Continue Baking
Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until both tofu is crispy outside and peppers are softened.
Step 13: Assemble Bowls
Assemble each burrito bowl by layering cilantro lime rice, warmed black beans if desired, roasted peppers, crispy tofu, sliced avocado, spicy tahini dressing, and salsa if using.
Enjoy your deliciously crafted Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl!
How to Serve Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
The Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl is not just a meal; it’s a flavorful experience. You can elevate your bowl with a variety of toppings and sides that will enhance the overall taste and presentation.
Top it Off with Fresh Ingredients
- Fresh Cilantro – Add a handful of chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
- Lime Wedges – Serve lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze fresh juice over their bowls.
- Salsa – A spoonful of salsa can bring more zing and flavor to each bite.
Add Crunchy Elements
- Tortilla Chips – Crushed tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch and texture contrast.
- Cabbage Slaw – A refreshing cabbage slaw adds both color and crunch to the dish.
Spice Up Your Bowl
- Pickled Jalapeños – For those who love heat, pickled jalapeños are a great addition.
- Hot Sauce – Drizzle extra hot sauce over the top for an added kick.
How to Perfect Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
To achieve the best results with your Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl, follow these simple tips.
- Press the Tofu Well – Ensure you remove as much moisture as possible from the tofu to achieve that perfect crispiness.
- Use Parchment Paper – Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Feel free to modify the amount of sriracha according to your heat preference.
- Mix Ingredients Evenly – Toss your tofu and veggies thoroughly in their respective mixtures for even flavor distribution.
Best Side Dishes for Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
Pairing side dishes with your Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Guacamole – Creamy avocado mixed with lime and spices offers a delicious complement.
- Mexican Street Corn – Grilled corn with mayonnaise, cheese, and spices adds a rich flavor contrast.
- Chips and Salsa – A classic pairing that provides a crunchy, flavorful bite alongside your bowl.
- Zucchini Fritters – Lightly fried or baked zucchini fritters add a crispy texture to your meal.
- Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad can offer additional nutrients and flavor variety.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted until tender can add sweetness and depth to the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the pressing step – Pressing tofu is crucial for achieving crispiness. Always press tofu for at least 5-10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet – Putting too much on one baking sheet can lead to soggy tofu and peppers. Spread them out to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Neglecting seasoning – Tofu can be bland if not seasoned properly. Ensure you coat it well with spices and sauces for a flavorful bowl.
- Using low-quality ingredients – Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a significant difference. Opt for ripe avocados and fresh peppers to enhance the overall taste.
- Rushing the baking time – Be patient! Allowing enough time for baking ensures the tofu crisps up perfectly. Follow the recommended bake times closely.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last about 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
- To freeze, pack the components separately (tofu, rice, veggies).
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe container for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
- Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl that may help you.
Can I customize my Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl?
Absolutely! You can add any vegetables you like such as corn or zucchini, or substitute quinoa for rice.
How do I make my Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce in your spicy tahini dressing.
What can I use instead of tofu?
For a different protein source, try tempeh or chickpeas. Both will work well in this burrito bowl!
How spicy is the Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl?
The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of sriracha used. Start with less if you prefer milder flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for meal prep and offers a satisfying balance of flavors. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients!
Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Spicy Baked Tofu Burrito Bowl, a delightful vegan dish that combines crispy baked tofu with cilantro lime rice, roasted peppers, black beans, and creamy avocado. This meal is perfect for any occasion—from quick weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s not only nutritious but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Each bite promises a flavor explosion that will satisfy your cravings while keeping your meals healthy and delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 batch cilantro lime rice or Vegan Mexican Rice
- 1 can black beans
- 1 avocado
- 1 red pepper
- 1 orange pepper
- 1 batch spicy tahini dressing
- 1 block extra firm tofu
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Press tofu to remove excess moisture, then cube.
- In a bowl, mix sriracha with olive oil and toss with cubed tofu.
- Coat tofu with a spice blend (corn starch, coconut sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt).
- Spread coated tofu and chopped peppers on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes; brush remaining sriracha mixture on tofu and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until crispy.
- Assemble bowls with rice, beans, roasted veggies, tofu, avocado, and toppings of choice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
