Spicy Garlic Tofu Fried Rice
Spicy garlic tofu fried rice made with crispy tofu, fragrant garlic, chili garlic paste, and fluffy cold rice. A satisfying plant-based fried rice recipe for lunch or dinner.
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Wok
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
Spicy Garlic Tofu Fried Rice
- 3 cups cooked long-grain white rice cold, day-old preferred
- 14 oz extra-firm tofu pressed and cubed
- 3-4 tbsp neutral oil divided
- 5 cloves garlic finely minced
- 1-2 tbsp chili garlic paste adjust to heat preference
- 2 green onions thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- salt to taste
Optional
- 1/2 tsp white pepper optional
- 1 tsp rice vinegar optional, for brightness
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Press tofu for at least 15 minutes, then cut into small cubes and season lightly with salt. Break up cold rice to remove clumps.
- Heat 2 tablespoons neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu in a single layer and sear 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add 1 tablespoon oil if needed. Add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in chili garlic paste and cook 20 to 30 seconds to bloom the flavor.
- Add rice and spread into an even layer. Let sit 20 to 30 seconds, then toss and fry 2 to 3 minutes until hot and lightly toasted.
- Drizzle soy sauce around the edges of the pan and toss well. Stir in toasted sesame oil and white pepper if using. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
- Return tofu to the pan and add green onions. Toss gently until evenly combined and heated through. Add a small splash of rice vinegar if using. Serve hot.
Notes
Cold rice gives the best texture. Pressing tofu helps it brown and stay crisp. Start with 1 tablespoon chili garlic paste for moderate heat and increase to 2 tablespoons for a stronger kick.