Tofu is used in practical, everyday dishes that feel complete and well-balanced. These recipes focus on approachable cooking methods that bring out texture and substance. From lightly cooked plates to heartier meals, each dish is designed to fit naturally into regular meal rotation. Ingredients stay familiar, making the recipes easy to recreate at home. Ideal for anyone looking to make tofu feel more like a main, not an afterthought.

Middle eastern tofu rice bowl

Middle eastern rice bowl close up.
Middle eastern tofu rice bowl. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Warm spices and seasoned tofu turn a simple rice bowl into something deeply comforting. Everything comes together in just a few easy steps, making it ideal for busy days or work-from-home lunches. The flavors feel hearty without being heavy. A great option when you want plant-based comfort food that still feels exciting.
Get the Recipe: Middle eastern tofu rice bowl

Tofu Fried Rice

Tofu Fried Rice. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Savory, satisfying flavors bring classic takeout vibes in a lighter, homemade way. Leftover vegetables fit right in, making it perfect for clearing out the fridge. The tofu soaks up the seasoning beautifully for a well-balanced bite. Quick to cook and endlessly customizable.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Home Style Tofu: (Quick Braised Tofu Dish, 家常豆腐)

A bowl of stir-fried tofu with sliced red and orange bell peppers, topped with green onions.
Home Style Tofu: (Quick Braised Tofu Dish, 家常豆腐). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Simple ingredients and gentle braising create a dish that feels comforting and familiar. Soft tofu pairs with vegetables in a savory sauce that’s rich without being overpowering. Common pantry staples keep preparation approachable. A classic everyday meal found in many Chinese households.
Get the Recipe: Home Style Tofu: (Quick Braised Tofu Dish, 家常豆腐)

Authentic Hunan Tofu Recipe (Stir-fry In Hunan-style)

Spicy and savory Hunan-style tofu stir-fry on a plate with a pair of silver chopsticks.
Authentic Hunan Tofu Recipe (Stir-fry In Hunan-style). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Bold heat and deep savory flavors define this spicy stir-fry. Mild tofu acts as the perfect canvas for absorbing the intense sauce. Quick cooking keeps textures lively and satisfying. Ideal for spice lovers craving something vibrant and bold.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hunan Tofu Recipe (Stir-fry In Hunan-style)

Spicy Tofu Tacos

Side view of tacos on a plate, one with bite taken out.
Spicy Tofu Tacos. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Crispy, seasoned tofu brings big flavor to a meat-free taco night. Bold spices add heat and depth without overpowering the dish. Perfect for plant-based eaters looking for something filling and fun. A fresh twist on a Taco Tuesday favorite.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tofu Tacos

Eggplant And Tofu Recipe (Panda Express Copycat)

A bowl of rice topped with stir-fried eggplant, tofu, red bell peppers, and green onions. A fork is placed on the side.
Eggplant And Tofu Recipe (Panda Express Copycat). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Tender eggplant and crispy tofu come together in a savory, takeout-inspired sauce. Sweet and salty flavors balance beautifully in every bite. A great homemade alternative to restaurant favorites. Comforting, familiar, and surprisingly easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant And Tofu Recipe (Panda Express Copycat)

Spicy Baked Tofu Noodles

A plate of stir-fried vermicelli noodles—a true pantry staple—topped with two slices of golden-brown omelette, garnished with fresh cilantro and sliced red and green peppers.
Spicy Baked Tofu Noodles. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Oven-baked tofu adds texture and bold flavor to slurp-worthy noodles. Heat and seasoning bring everything together into one satisfying dish. Naturally vegan and gluten-free without sacrificing comfort. Perfect for weeknights when you want something bold but easy.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Baked Tofu Noodles

Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Tofu and broccoli on a plate.
Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crisp-tender broccoli and tofu cook quickly in a flavorful sauce. The balance of fresh vegetables and plant-based protein makes it satisfying yet light. A reliable meatless main for busy evenings. Simple ingredients deliver big flavor fast.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

General Tso’s Tofu

Glazed tofu cubes with sesame seeds and chives on rice, accompanied by steamed broccoli.
General Tso’s Tofu. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Crispy tofu gets coated in a glossy sweet-and-spicy sauce. Familiar takeout flavors shine while staying completely plant-based. Crunchy edges contrast with a sticky, bold glaze. A crowd-pleasing option even for non-vegetarians.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Tofu

Sweet & Sour Tofu

A bowl of white rice topped with sweet and sour chicken, colorful bell peppers, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds—this pantry staple makes real meals simple. Chopsticks and a small dish of green onions sit beside the bowl.
Sweet & Sour Tofu. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Crispy tofu meets a bright, sticky sauce packed with sweet and tangy flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights. Inspired by classic Chinese takeout but fully vegetarian. Every bite hits that crave-worthy balance.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Tofu

Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Fluffy couscous pairs with seasoned tofu for a light yet filling salad. Fresh ingredients keep the dish vibrant and satisfying. Works well as a main or hearty side. Great for meal prep or warm-weather meals.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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