Tofu & Peanut Rice Bowl Recipe – Quick Curry Powder Delight

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Tofu & Peanut Rice Bowl Recipe – Quick Curry Powder Delight

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this super easy and flavorful tofu & peanut rice bowl recipe with you. It’s become a weeknight staple in my kitchen – quick to whip up, totally satisfying, and packed with deliciousness. Honestly, sometimes I just need a meal that comes together fast without sacrificing taste, and this one hits the spot every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly quick – ready in under 30 minutes. It’s also wonderfully customizable. Plus, the combination of savory tofu, fragrant rice, crunchy peanuts, and fresh herbs is just… chef’s kiss. It’s a delightful little explosion of textures and flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing tofu & peanut rice bowl:

• 6 oz Uncle Ben’s Roasted Garlic Rice
• 8 oz extra firm tofu
• 1-2 tablespoons roasted peanuts
• 1.5 teaspoon canola oil
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 sprig green onion
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• Chopped cilantro, to garnish

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about these ingredients for a sec, because a few little tweaks can really elevate this dish!

Uncle Ben’s Roasted Garlic Rice – Exploring Flavor Profiles

I love using Uncle Ben’s Roasted Garlic Rice because it adds a fantastic base flavor. It saves a step, and honestly, who doesn’t love garlic? (About 170g). You can definitely experiment with other flavored rice varieties too – a coconut rice would be amazing!

Extra Firm Tofu – Choosing & Preparing

Extra firm tofu is key here. It holds its shape really well when pan-fried. Pressing it is so important to get rid of excess water, otherwise it won’t get nice and crispy. (Around 225g).

Curry Powder – Regional Variations & Spice Blends

Curry powder is a bit of a broad term, as blends vary widely! I usually use a Madras curry powder for a bit of a kick, but feel free to use your favorite. (Approximately 5g).

Canola Oil – Alternatives & Health Considerations

Canola oil works great for pan-frying, but you could also use vegetable oil or even coconut oil. (Around 4.5ml).

Roasted Peanuts – Toasting for Enhanced Flavor

Roasting the peanuts really brings out their flavor. If you have raw peanuts, quickly toast them in a dry pan for a few minutes until fragrant. (About 15-30g).

Green Onion & Cilantro – Freshness & Aroma

Fresh green onion and cilantro are essential for that bright, fresh finish. Don’t skimp on these! (About 1-2 stalks green onion, a small handful of cilantro).

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, cook the Uncle Ben’s Roasted Garlic Rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, set it aside.
2. While the rice is cooking, press your tofu! Wrap the tofu block in paper towels and place something heavy on top (like a cast iron skillet or a few books) for 20-30 minutes. This gets rid of excess water. Then, slice it into bite-sized cubes.
3. Heat the canola oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to make sure the tofu is evenly coated.
4. Now, pan-fry the tofu for 2-3 minutes per side, until it’s golden brown and crispy. Remove it from the heat.
5. Finally, assemble your bowls! Layer the rice, tofu, peanuts, and green onions. Drizzle with lime juice and garnish with a generous sprinkle of chopped cilantro.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the tofu. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
• For extra crispy tofu, you can lightly coat the cubes in cornstarch before frying.
• Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

Variations

• Spicy Peanut Sauce: My friend Sarah loves adding a tablespoon of peanut butter and a dash of sriracha to the lime juice for a spicy peanut sauce.
• Veggie Boost: My family loves adding steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to the bowl for extra nutrients.
• Coconut Curry: Use coconut oil and a coconut-based curry powder for a tropical twist.

Vegan Adaptation

This recipe is already naturally vegan! Just double-check your curry powder to ensure it doesn’t contain any hidden animal products.

Gluten-Free Considerations

This recipe is gluten-free as long as your curry powder is certified gluten-free. Always check the label!

Spice Level Adjustment – Mild to Spicy

Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the tofu while it’s frying. For a milder flavor, use a mild curry powder.

Quick Weeknight Meal Adaptation

To save even more time, use pre-cooked rice pouches. It’s a lifesaver on busy nights!

Serving Suggestions

This bowl is perfect as a light lunch or a satisfying dinner. It also pairs well with a side of mango chutney or a cooling raita.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tofu might lose a little of its crispness, but it will still taste delicious!

FAQs

What type of tofu works best in this recipe?

Extra firm tofu is definitely the way to go! It holds its shape best when pan-fried.

Can I use brown rice instead of Uncle Ben’s Roasted Garlic Rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice is a healthy and delicious alternative. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe nut-free?

Yes, you can easily omit the peanuts. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds would make a great crunchy substitute.

How can I adjust the curry powder to my preferred spice level?

Start with a smaller amount of curry powder and add more to taste. You can also use a mild or hot curry powder depending on your preference.

Can this be served cold as a rice salad?

Yes! It’s actually really refreshing served cold as a rice salad, especially in the summer.

How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?

Leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.