Sweet Chili Tofu Rice Bowls with Peanut Dipping Sauce

If you’re looking for a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal, look no further than these Sweet Chili Tofu Rice Bowls with Peanut Dipping Sauce. This recipe combines crispy, golden tofu with vibrant vegetables and fluffy jasmine rice, all drizzled with a creamy peanut dipping sauce that adds an irresistible flavor twist. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish not only pleases the palate but also packs a nutritious punch. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is a must-try!

The sweet chili sauce brings a delightful sweetness with a hint of spice, while the peanut dipping sauce adds a rich and creamy texture that complements the dish perfectly. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal cooking skills and just one skillet. You’ll have a colorful, mouthwatering meal ready in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sweet Chili Tofu Rice Bowls with Peanut Dipping Sauce recipe is not just about taste; it’s also about the joy of cooking and sharing a meal that everyone can enjoy. Here are some key reasons why this dish will become a favorite in your household:

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce and peanut dipping sauce creates a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. Each bite offers a delightful mix of sweetness, nuttiness, and a touch of spice.
• Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You can whip up a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Zucchini, snap peas, or bell peppers can all be great additions.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the tofu and a variety of vitamins from the vegetables, this dish is a wholesome option that will keep you feeling energized.
• Vegan and Gluten-Free Options: This recipe can easily be made vegan and gluten-free by using a gluten-free soy sauce. It’s a great choice for accommodating different dietary preferences!

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it also offers several benefits that make it worthwhile to try:

• Balanced Meal: The rice, tofu, and vegetables provide a well-rounded meal that includes carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. This dish can easily be a complete meal on its own.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These rice bowls are perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the tofu and vegetables ahead of time and assemble them when you’re ready to eat.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day! The flavors continue to meld, making it a great option for lunch the following day.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the sweet flavors, and parents will appreciate the nutritious ingredients. It’s a dish that the whole family can enjoy together.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a rice bowl, or you can even use the same components for a wrap or salad for a different presentation.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Ingredients for the Tofu and Rice Bowls:

• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed
• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• ½ cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Ingredients for the Peanut Dipping Sauce:

• ¼ cup peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin sauce, as needed)

Necessary Utensils:

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Bowl for mixing sauce
• Serving bowls

Detailed Recipe Steps

1. Prepare the Tofu: Begin by cutting the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes. This will help it cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the sweet chili sauce.
2. Cook the Tofu: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Be patient as you let the tofu crisp up; this will add great texture to your dish.
3. Add Vegetables: Once the tofu is golden, add the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables with the tofu for about 5-7 minutes, until they are tender-crisp. This will keep the veggies vibrant and full of nutrients.
4. Add Sweet Chili Sauce: Pour the sweet chili sauce over the tofu and vegetable mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through, and the sauce slightly thickens.
5. Prepare the Peanut Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached. The sauce should be creamy yet pourable.
6. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked jasmine rice among serving bowls. Top each bowl with the sweet chili tofu and vegetable mixture. Drizzle with the peanut dipping sauce, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while warm, with extra peanut sauce on the side for dipping. This meal is best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored for leftovers.

FAQs

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Sweet Chili Tofu Rice Bowls with Peanut Dipping Sauce are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. This meal is quick, nutritious, and incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress.

We invite you to try out this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this recipe on your social media, and check out our Pinterest page for more delicious ideas: Cheflora’s Pinterest. Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes, check out these links: Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers with Chili Dip, Teriyaki Salmon Nuggets with Creamy Ginger Dip, Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Wings with Sesame Sauce, Sweet Chili Glazed Shrimp Bites with Garlic Lime Dip, Crispy Tofu Rice Bowls with Spicy Peanut Drizzle.

Sweet Chili Tofu Rice Bowls with Peanut Dipping Sauce

These Sweet Chili Tofu Rice Bowls are a delicious and vibrant meal, topped with a creamy peanut dipping sauce, perfect for any night of the week.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Small Bowl

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 14 oz Firm Tofu drained and pressed
• 2 cups Cooked Jasmine Rice
• 1 cup Broccoli Florets
• 1 Red Bell Pepper sliced
• 1 cup Carrots julienned
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
• ½ cup Sweet Chili Sauce
• 2 Green Onions chopped, for garnish
• Sesame Seeds for garnish

Peanut Dipping Sauce Ingredients

• ¼ cup Peanut Butter
• 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce
• 1 tablespoon Lime Juice
• 1 tablespoon Honey or Maple Syrup
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1-2 tablespoons Water to thin sauce, as needed

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes.
• In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
• Once the tofu is golden, add the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables with the tofu for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
• Pour the sweet chili sauce over the tofu and vegetable mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
• In a small bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
• Divide the cooked jasmine rice among serving bowls. Top each bowl with the sweet chili tofu and vegetable mixture. Drizzle with the peanut dipping sauce, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
• Serve immediately while warm, with extra peanut sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference or what's in season. You can also substitute the peanut butter with almond butter for a different flavor.

Keyword Peanut Sauce, rice bowl, tofu, vegan