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Homemade Sweet Chili Garlic Tofu Bowls with Pickled Veg recipe photo

Sweet Chili Garlic Tofu Bowls with Pickled Veg

These Sweet Chili Garlic Tofu Bowls are bursting with flavor! Crispy tofu, sweet chili sauce, fluffy jasmine rice, and tangy pickled veggies make a perfect quick meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz Firm tofu
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil neutral oil like canola or sunflower
  • 3 tablespoons Sweet chili sauce
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 cup Jasmine rice
  • 1 cup Mixed pickled vegetables carrots, cucumbers, and radishes
  • 2 tablespoons Green onions sliced
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame seeds toasted or raw
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Cast iron or non-stick skillet
  • Rice cooker or saucepan
  • Tofu press or heavy object
  • Mixing bowls
  • Sharp Knife and Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. Drain the tofu and press it by wrapping in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions until fluffy, using a rice cooker or saucepan.
  3. In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce with 2 minced garlic cloves. Stir well and set aside.
  4. Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes in a single layer and cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes until golden crust forms. Flip and cook other sides until crispy and browned.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low, pour sweet chili garlic sauce over tofu and toss gently to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to absorb sauce and become sticky.
  6. Assemble bowls by placing jasmine rice as a base, then add sauced tofu on top. Arrange about 1 cup of mixed pickled vegetables beside the tofu. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or pack for meal prep.

Notes

  • Press tofu well to ensure it crisps up nicely and absorbs the sauce better.
  • Use quick pickled vegetables for a fresh, tangy crunch; store-bought works fine for convenience.
  • Store tofu and rice separately if freezing; add pickled vegetables fresh after reheating to maintain texture.