When it comes to plant-based protein, few ingredients are as versatile or delicious as shredded tofu. From spicy stir-fries to crunchy tacos, and from savory salads to satisfying bowls, shredded tofu can be used in a multitude of dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipe ideas that showcase the best of crispy shredded tofu.
From classic Szechuan flavors to bold Korean BBQ-inspired flavors, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking for some new inspiration in the kitchen, this list has something for everyone. So let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of crispy shredded tofu!
Spicy Szechuan Shredded Tofu Stir-Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this spicy and savory stir-fry, featuring shredded tofu as the main attraction. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and shredded
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 teaspoons chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add the tofu and cook until golden, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili bean paste, and red pepper flakes.
5. Pour the sauce over the tofu mixture; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Ginger Shredded Tofu Noodle Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with the savory goodness of shredded tofu, garlic, ginger, and noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 8 oz rice noodles or soba noodles
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the crumbled tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing to combine with the garlic-ginger mixture.
5. Stir in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the cooked tofu with the noodle mixture. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Shredded Tofu Tacos with Avocado Lime Sauce
Transform ordinary tacos into a flavorful fiesta with crispy shredded tofu and creamy avocado lime sauce. This vegetarian delight is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Lime Sauce (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together crumbled tofu and cornstarch.
3. Add vegetable oil and mix until the tofu is evenly coated.
4. Spread the tofu mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by placing crispy tofu onto a tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
Avocado Lime Sauce:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Serve with crispy tofu tacos.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Sour Shredded Tofu with Pineapple
Sweet and Sour Shredded Tofu with Pineapple Recipe
Experience the harmonious balance of sweet and sour flavors in this quick and easy-to-make recipe featuring shredded tofu and pineapple.
Ingredients:
• 1 block firm tofu, drained and crumbled
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
2. Add the crumbled tofu and toss until well coated with the sweet and sour mixture.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add the garlic (if using) and sauté for 30 seconds to release flavors.
5. Add the pineapple chunks and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they start to caramelize.
6. Add the coated tofu mixture and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
7. Season with salt to taste and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Korean BBQ Shredded Tofu Lettuce Wraps
Get ready to wrap up a flavorful and refreshing meal with this simple Korean-inspired recipe! Marinated tofu, crunchy lettuce, and tangy slaw come together in a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp sugar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– 1 cup shredded napa cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil. Add the crumbled tofu and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat a non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat. Remove the tofu from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook the tofu until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate bowl, combine shredded cabbage and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing cooked tofu, slaw mixture, and lettuce leaves on a plate or wrap. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shredded Tofu Pad Thai with Peanuts
Shredded Tofu Pad Thai with Peanuts Recipe
Pad Thai is a classic Thai dish that’s easily customizable to suit your taste and dietary needs. This recipe uses shredded tofu as a protein source, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
- Ingredients:
- 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
- 2 tablespoons of tamarind paste
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of palm sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped peanuts for garnish
- Instructions:
- Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
- Add the mixed vegetables, tamarind paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, palm sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the shredded tofu; stir-fry until combined with the vegetables.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped peanuts and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Pepper Shredded Tofu Salad
A refreshing and light salad that combines the tanginess of lemon with the warmth of pepper, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and shredded
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded tofu, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, garlic, and black pepper.
2. Toss until the tofu is well coated with the lemon mixture.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss again.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Maple Glazed Shredded Tofu with Roasted Veggies
This recipe is a delicious and nutritious vegetarian option, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish. The maple glaze adds a rich and sweet flavor to the tender shredded tofu, while the roasted veggies provide a nice contrast in texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
3. Add the crumbled tofu to the glaze mixture and toss until coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the glazed tofu in an even layer.
5. Roast the vegetables according to their individual cooking times (usually 20-25 minutes).
6. Serve the roasted veggies alongside the maple glazed tofu.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes for the tofu, plus additional time for roasting the veggies.
Shredded Tofu Banh Mi Sandwich
A twist on the classic Vietnamese sandwich, this recipe combines crispy baguette with tender shredded tofu, sweet pickled carrots and daikon, spicy chili mayo, and crunchy cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
– 2 pickled carrots and daikon, sliced
– 2 tablespoons of chili mayo (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 baguette, crispy-fried
– Cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Drain the tofu and crumble it into small pieces.
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and scallions. Add the tofu and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat a pan with some oil over medium heat. Remove the tofu from marinade and cook until crispy and golden brown.
4. Assemble the sandwich by spreading chili mayo on the baguette, followed by shredded tofu, pickled carrots and daikon, and cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Teriyaki Shredded Tofu Rice Bowl
This Teriyaki Shredded Tofu Rice Bowl is a flavorful and protein-packed meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The combination of tender tofu, savory teriyaki sauce, and fluffy rice is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and shredded
– 2 cups cooked Japanese-style rice (such as short-grain rice)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese-style rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Heat the mixture in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the shredded tofu and cook until coated with the sauce, stirring occasionally.
4. Assemble the bowls by placing the cooked rice on the bottom, followed by the teriyaki tofu mixture, and finishing with sliced green onions.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Shredded Tofu Wraps with Ranch Dressing
Add a twist to traditional wraps by using shredded tofu marinated in buffalo sauce, wrapped in a crispy tortilla with creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 large tortillas
– Lettuce, tomato, cucumber, avocado (optional)
– Ranch dressing
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together buffalo wing sauce and olive oil. Add the crumbled tofu and toss to coat.
2. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the tortillas for 30 seconds on each side, until crispy.
3. Assemble the wraps by placing the marinated tofu onto the tortilla, followed by lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and avocado (if using).
4. Serve with ranch dressing on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shredded Tofu and Mushroom Stir-Fry
Quickly cook up a flavorful and healthy stir-fry with shredded tofu, mushrooms, and your choice of seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and shredded
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the shredded tofu and stir-fry until it’s well coated with the mushroom mixture (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Coconut Curry Shredded Tofu with Jasmine Rice
Experience the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia with this creamy and aromatic dish, where tender shredded tofu is smothered in a rich coconut curry sauce and served over fluffy jasmine rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add curry paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Add shredded tofu and stir to coat with the curry sauce.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the tofu is well coated.
7. Serve the coconut curry tofu over cooked jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shredded Tofu Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce
A flavorful and refreshing Asian-inspired snack or appetizer, these spring rolls are filled with the goodness of shredded tofu, crunchy vegetables, and savory seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the produce section)
– 1/2 cup shredded firm tofu
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped carrots
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Peanut dipping sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shredded tofu, cabbage, carrots, and garlic.
2. Add soy sauce and sesame oil, and mix until well combined.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the tofu mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Fry spring rolls in hot oil until crispy and golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
Peanut Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Serve with spring rolls for a delicious and satisfying snack or appetizer.
Smoky Shredded Tofu Burrito Bowl
Elevate your meal game with this smoky, savory, and satisfying burrito bowl featuring shredded tofu, roasted vegetables, and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, and water.
3. Add the crumbled tofu and toss to coat.
4. Spread the tofu mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
5. While the tofu is roasting, sauté the onion and garlic in a pan until softened.
6. Add the diced bell pepper and cook until tender.
7. Combine roasted tofu, cooked rice, and sautéed vegetables in a bowl.
8. Top with sliced avocado and your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Shredded Tofu and Broccoli in Garlic Sauce
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of shredded tofu with the crunch of broccoli, all wrapped up in a savory garlic sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition!
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and shredded
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, and vegetable broth.
5. Pour the sauce over the broccoli mixture and stir to combine.
6. Add the shredded tofu and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shredded Tofu Scramble with Turmeric and Spinach
This flavorful vegan scramble is a game-changer for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. The addition of turmeric and spinach gives it a vibrant yellow color and an earthy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the crumbled tofu, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tofu is lightly browned and scrambled-like.
6. Add the fresh spinach leaves and stir until wilted.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or nutritional yeast if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shredded Tofu and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of quinoa, tofu, and bell peppers for a nutritious and satisfying vegetarian dish. Perfect as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup shredded firm tofu
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix quinoa, tofu, onion, garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your plant-based game with these 18 crispy shredded tofu recipes! From spicy Szechuan stir-fries to sweet and sour dishes, and from tacos to pad thai, there’s something for every occasion. Discover flavors like garlic ginger noodle bowls, Korean BBQ lettuce wraps, and smoky burrito bowls. Plus, find creative twists on classic dishes like banh mi sandwiches and scrambled tofu with turmeric and spinach. With these recipes, you’ll never tire of the versatility and deliciousness of shredded tofu!