Sticky Tofu Bowl Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that combines bold flavors, satisfying textures, and vibrant colors all in one bowl, you are going to adore this Sticky Tofu Bowl. It’s a fantastic plant-based dish that packs a punch with perfectly crispy tofu coated in a luscious, sweet-savory sauce, paired with tender broccoli and fluffy rice. The Sticky Tofu Bowl is not only comforting but makes a gorgeous presentation that feels like a special treat any day of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients is all you need to create this delightful Sticky Tofu Bowl. Each element plays an important role, from the tofu’s crispy exterior to the sticky sauce’s punch of flavor, not to mention the fresh crunch of broccoli that balances the richness.

• Extra-firm tofu: Firm tofu holds its shape best and crisps up beautifully when pan-fried.
• Olive oil: Helps the tofu achieve that golden, crispy crust without overpowering the flavors.
• Soy sauce or tamari: Adds a wonderful umami depth; tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
• White flour or cornstarch: Coats the tofu to lock in moisture and help create a crunchy texture.
• Broccoli: Adds a fresh, slightly crunchy vegetable component that also bursts with color.
• Cooked rice: The perfect base to soak up all the sticky sauce goodness.
• Ketchup: Surprising but essential for the sticky sauce—providing tang, sweetness, and color.
• Maple syrup: Sweetens the sauce naturally and balances the savory soy activity.
• Sesame oil: Brings a nutty aroma that pairs perfectly with tofu and veggies.
• Fresh ginger: Adds a subtle warmth and zing to the sauce for complexity.
• Green onion: For garnish and a pop of freshness on top.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted on top to add a lovely crunch and an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Sticky Tofu Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Rice and Broccoli

Start by cooking your rice according to package instructions so it’s fluffy and ready to serve. While the rice cooks, bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch your broccoli florets for 1 to 2 minutes. Right after, drain it well—this keeps it bright green and crisp-tender, which will add a fresh contrast to the indulgent tofu.

Step 2: Coat and Fry the Tofu

Drain and pat your extra-firm tofu dry before cutting it into 3/4 inch cubes. Toss these cubes gently with olive oil, soy sauce, and flour to coat each piece evenly—this is what will create that crave-worthy crispy texture. Heat olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat, then carefully add the tofu cubes. Fry them for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust. Using tongs makes flipping a breeze and helps keep cubes intact.

Step 3: Whip Up the Sticky Sauce

In a small bowl, combine ketchup, soy sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil, and freshly grated ginger. Mix everything together until silky and vibrant—this sauce is what gives the Sticky Tofu Bowl its incredible signature flavor, blending sweet, salty, and aromatic notes.

Step 4: Simmer Tofu in Sauce

Once your tofu is beautifully browned, pour about three-quarters of the sticky sauce over the pieces in the frying pan. Toss them gently to coat each cube, then let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes so that it thickens and clings lovingly to the tofu. This step ensures every bite bursts with sticky, flavorful goodness.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Place a generous serving of fluffy rice at the base of your bowl, then top with the tender broccoli florets, and finish by arranging the sticky tofu cubes on top. Drizzle with the remaining sticky sauce, then sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onion over everything for a fresh crunch and vibrant finish.

How to Serve Sticky Tofu Bowl

Garnishes

Simple garnishes elevate your Sticky Tofu Bowl from delicious to stunning. Toasted sesame seeds bring tiny bursts of nuttiness and crunch, while thinly sliced green onions add a fresh, peppery brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

If you want to round out your meal, consider serving the Sticky Tofu Bowl with a light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables. These sides introduce refreshing acidity and texture contrasts that make every bite more interesting and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering your Sticky Tofu Bowl components in a clear glass jar for a fun picnic option or serve them family-style on a large platter for sharing. You can also add a colorful drizzle of spicy sriracha mayo alongside the sticky sauce to bring an exciting kick to the presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Sticky Tofu Bowl can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the sauce separate if you want the tofu to remain crispy longer, then toss them together just before reheating.

Freezing

While tofu texture can change when frozen, this dish still freezes well if you freeze components separately. Store cooked rice, blanched broccoli, and tofu in different containers so you can thaw and reheat them evenly without sacrificing texture.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your Sticky Tofu Bowl is in a skillet over medium heat—this helps the tofu stay crispier than microwaving. Add the broccoli and rice in the last minute just to warm through, then drizzle any reserved sauce on top before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of protein instead of tofu?

Absolutely! While tofu is perfect for absorbing flavors and providing that crispy texture, you can easily swap in tempeh, seitan, or even chicken if you’re not vegan.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just substitute soy sauce with tamari and use cornstarch instead of white flour to keep the Sticky Tofu Bowl completely gluten-free without compromising flavor.

How spicy is the Sticky Tofu Bowl?

The dish as written has a sweet and savory profile without spiciness. You can easily add chili flakes or sriracha if you want to introduce a spicy kick.

Can I make this recipe ahead for meal prep?

Definitely. Prepare all components separately and assemble the bowl when ready to eat for the freshest textures. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeks!

What kind of rice works best?

Any long-grain white rice or jasmine rice works beautifully, but feel free to experiment with brown rice or quinoa for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.

Final Thoughts

This Sticky Tofu Bowl quickly became one of my favorite go-to meals because it’s so easy to make yet irresistibly delicious. The balance of crispy tofu, sticky sauce, and fresh veggies hits all the right notes every time. I can’t wait for you to try making it yourself and enjoy this hearty, comforting, and vibrant dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Print