Tofu lovers + Asian food lovers meet in the middle with this one! Tofu is a powerhouse of protein, and when cooked just right, it makes for a mouthwatering dish. Learn how to create 17 delicious Asian recipes with tofu as the key ingredient right in your own kitchen!
Homemade Asian Recipes with Tofu
I've included the classics, such as Stir Fry Broccoli and Baked Tofu and Tofu Pad Thai, as well as some of my personal favorites that make for quick homemade Asian recipes, like Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu and Oven Grilled Tofu and Zucchini Wrap (one of my favorite healthy Asian recipes).
Pair most of these with some classic sticky rice, and you're good to go. Now, let's get cooking!
Miso Tofu and Bok Choy Stir Fry
If you love the rich, umami flavor of white miso, you’re going to love this easy recipe! This light and flavorful Miso Tofu and Bok Choy Stir Fry is made with a rich miso sauce, woodsy shiitake mushrooms, crispy pan-fried tofu, and vibrant baby bok choy.
Coconut Curry Tofu and Shrimp
This Coconut Curry Tofu and Shrimp is loaded with veggies and shrimp and flavored with the goodness of red curry paste, lemongrass, spicy sambal oelek, and light coconut milk. Treat yourself to this recipe that's full of yumminess!
Asian Style Tofu Burger
With bold seasonings and fresh toppings, this Asian-style tofu Burger is sure to knock your socks off!
Healthy Vegetarian Sweet and Sour Tofu
A healthier version of this Chinese classic dish, Vegetarian Sweet and Sour Tofu is the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and acid!
Easy Singapore Laksa with Shrimp and Tofu
Singapore Laksa with Shrimp and Tofu is a local favorite in Singapore. This homemade version is loaded with flavor and fragrance. It's a seafood lover's dream!
Crispy Sesame Seared Tofu Strips
These gluten-free Crispy Sesame Seared Tofu Strips are so full of flavor from the easy, sweet and spicy sauce to the crispy exterior. You simply cannot eat just one; they can be great for healthy eating!
Easy Tofu Pad Thai
Easy Tofu Pad Thai is a winner "fake-out" dish bursting with texture and flavor and on the dinner table in under 30 minutes! This is a staple of Asian cuisine to cook at home (and one of my best Thai recipes) and a good reason to get cooking for the whole family.
Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu
This Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu vegetarian appetizer is crispy on the outside and silky on the inside. This reader favorite is so perfect for entertaining!
Stir-Fry Broccoli and Baked Tofu
To all you veggie lovers, here’s a quick and easy broccoli recipe for busy weeknights: my vegetarian Stir-Fry Broccoli and Baked Tofu with garlic and Thai chili peppers tossed in a sweet and savory sauce. It's incredibility delicious and a perfectly complete meal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Tofu Collard Wraps with Peanut Sauce
Vibrant and healthy, Tofu Collard Wraps are filled with crispy tofu strips and broccoli slaw, topped with spicy peanut sauce. They're the perfect wrap to boost your metabolism!
Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu
This healthy and easy Thai Clear Soup recipe is loaded with veggies, chicken, and tofu. It's so nutritious, full of flavor, and super easy to prepare! Plus, it's gluten free and dairy free.
Seared Miso Tofu Poké Bowl
This delicious, vegetarian Seared Miso Tofu Poké Bowl features seasoned wok-seared tofu, crisp veggies, and avocado, served over sticky white rice and drizzled with a tangy, sweet miso ginger dressing. So healthy and yummy!
Spicy Asian Tofu Salad
This show-stopping Spicy Asian Tofu Salad is tossed in a creamy, tangy, spicy peanut dressing that's bursting with Asian flavors. This super healthy, vegan salad recipe is the perfect way to spice things up this summer!
Skinny(ish) General Tso's Shrimp and Tofu
A lighter version of General Tso's classic recipe, this Skinny(ish) General Tso's Shrimp and Tofu dish still packs a ton of flavor! It's stir-fried (not deep-fried), and tossed in a yummy Asian sauce.
Miso Soup with Tofu
Ten minutes is all it takes to make this quick and easy Miso Soup with Tofu recipe! This Asian-inspired version of the popular Japanese soup is salty, savory, earthy, and so nourishing!
Crispy Tofu Steaks with Bok Choy
If you love tofu as much as I do, these Crispy Tofu Steaks nestled on top of baby bok choy will quickly become your go-to dish! This easy, vegetarian recipe requires little effort but is loaded with amazing umami flavor!
Oven Grilled Tofu and Zucchini Wrap
This delicious, Oven Grilled Tofu and Zucchini Wrap is just what you need to kickstart your healthy summer goals! Sliced tofu and zucchini are oven-grilled, then enveloped in a soft, lavash flatbread layered with creamy avocado slices and a punchy, herbaceous chimichurri sauce. So yummy!
How to Cook Tofu That Tastes Delicious
Cooking tofu doesn't have to be a complicated event, trust me! While I might have perfected it over the years, I have perfected it in a way that simplifies the process, making it easy enough for anyone to do. If you're looking for some quick tips on cooking tofu the right way, here you go:
- Make sure to press your tofu! This removes extra moisture and makes the tofu easier to cook and tastier! Do this using a tofu press (easy way) or by wrapping some paper towels around the tofu tightly and placing a heavy pan on top to remove the excess moisture.
- Cook it in the oven, cutting it into even-sized strips or cubes, coating it in some oil + seasoning, and baking at 400F degrees for 10-12 minutes (flipping halfway through).
- Pan-fry it by cutting it into even pieces and coating it in corn starch. Fry in some oil until all sides are golden brown, about 5-6 minutes.
Find even more details inside of the blog post!
Pro Tips for Cooking Recipes with Tofu
Aside from actually cooking the tofu, there are a few tidbits to keep in mind that will make your tofu dishes taste amazing!
- Different types of tofu (silken, soft, firm, extra-firm) work best for different recipes. Read the recipe instructions for which type to use with the recipe.
- Season well! Salt, pepper, spices, and herbs can enhance its flavor. Tofu absorbs flavors well, so be generous with your seasoning.
- Since tofu is a blank canvas, marinating it can add incredible flavor. For a traditional Asian flavor, use a mix of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sweetness like maple syrup or honey. For extra spiciness, I like to use sambal oelek chili paste for heat!
- Pair tofu with bold, contrasting flavors and textures. Fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, and tangy sauces can really elevate your dish when cooking with tofu.
- Add the tofu last when making stir-fries or soups to prevent it from breaking apart and to maintain its texture.
Bethany Anne says
These tofu recipes are very inspirational! I’ve tried several of these recipes already, and can’t wait to try the others. My fave so far are the crispy salt and pepper tofu bites. You can’t eat just one!
Asian Inspired Eats says
I can't wait for you to try some of these other tofu recipes! Thanks so much for your feedback, and glad you're enjoying the tofu bites!