Crispy Tofu Bang Bang Fried Rice
This Bang Bang Fried Rice with Crispy Tofu is a vibrant dish that combines spicy, sweet, and savory flavors with fluffy rice and crispy tofu. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
- Author: Crumella
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- For the Crispy Tofu:
- 14 oz (400 g) firm tofu, pressed and drained
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- For the Fried Rice:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Sesame seeds and additional green onions for garnish
- Start by preparing the crispy tofu. Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes, and in a medium bowl, toss it with cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Ensure each piece is evenly coated for maximum crispiness. Set aside for about 10 minutes.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the tofu cubes. Fry for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning; the edges should be crispy while the center remains tender.
- While the tofu is frying, prepare the Bang Bang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon sriracha, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder until smooth. Adjust the sriracha to your preferred spice level. Set aside.
- Once the tofu is done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and heat over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Next, add the minced garlic and mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant. Be careful not to overcook; they should retain some crunch.
- Now, add the day-old jasmine rice to the skillet, using a spatula to break up any clumps. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Stir everything together, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the rice is heated through and well mixed with the vegetables.
- Finally, fold in the crispy tofu and sliced green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and combined. Serve immediately, drizzled with the Bang Bang sauce and garnished with sesame seeds and additional green onions if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Ensure your tofu is well-pressed to remove as much moisture as possible. Use a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned wok to prevent the rice from sticking. For the best flavor, use day-old rice.