Hello and welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today, I’m excited to share with you a delicious recipe for Thai tofu rice. This vegan dish is perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal. The combination of aromatic jasmine rice, crispy tofu, and a blend of Thai-inspired spices creates a fusion of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Plus, using a rice cooker makes this recipe easy to prepare and the perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner. Let’s get started! We’ve made this thai tofu rice recipe easy to follow 👨‍🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.

thai tofu rice ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown rice
  • 1 package firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook 1 cup of brown rice according to the directions on the package and set it aside.
  2. Take 1 package of firm tofu and drain all the water from it. Press the tofu with a paper towel or tofu press to remove any excess water. Cut the tofu into small cubes and set it aside.
  3. Next, heat up 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat on the stovetop.
  4. Add 1 small chopped onion, 3 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 small sliced bell pepper in the skillet. Cook the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they are tender.
  5. Add the cubed tofu and 2 tablespoons of red curry paste to the skillet and mix everything together for approximately 2 minutes.
  6. Add 1 can (14 oz) of coconut milk to the skillet and stir until well combined. Let the mixture simmer.
  7. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground ginger to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine.
  8. Now reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for around 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  9. Finally, add 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro to the skillet and stir everything until it’s well mixed. Remove the skillet from the heat.
  10. Place some of the cooked brown rice on a plate and add the tofu and the sauce over it. If you like, sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped peanuts over it. The Thai Tofu Rice recipe is ready to enjoy!

thai tofu rice

How long does thai tofu rice last in the fridge?

Thai tofu rice, like any other cooked dish, can be stored in the fridge for a certain period of time. Typically, it is safe to refrigerate leftover Thai tofu rice for up to 3-4 days. To ensure it stays fresh and safe to consume, it’s important to store it in an airtight container immediately after cooking and let it cool down completely before putting it in the fridge. When reheating the dish, it’s recommended to add a splash of water to the rice to prevent it from drying out and to also heat it thoroughly to at least 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential bacteria growth.

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Low calorie thai tofu rice recipe substitutions

To make this Thai Tofu Rice recipe lower in calories, there are several substitutions that can be made. First, replace the brown rice with riced cauliflower or quinoa, both of which have fewer calories and more fiber. Second, use a non-stick cooking spray instead of vegetable oil. Third, substitute light coconut milk for the regular coconut milk, which has fewer calories and less fat. Fourth, reduce the amount of brown sugar to 1/2 tablespoon, or omit it altogether. Fifth, skip the peanuts as a topping, or use a small portion of chopped almonds or cashews instead. Finally, reduce the tofu from one package to 1/2 package, and load up on more sliced vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bok choy. These substitutions will make for a lower-calorie and healthier version of the recipe that still tastes delicious!

What to serve with a thai tofu rice?

There are a variety of options to serve with Thai tofu rice. Some popular choices include steamed or stir-fried vegetables such as bok choy, broccoli, and carrots. You can also add a side of crunchy spring rolls or delectable dumplings. For an extra pop of flavor, try serving with a spicy peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce. And if you want to keep it simple, a refreshing side salad with a tangy dressing can also be a great addition to balance out the dish.

Whats the best sauce for a thai tofu rice?

There are several sauces that will pair well with a Thai tofu rice dish, but one of the best options would be a sweet and slightly spicy peanut sauce. To make the sauce, mix together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, red pepper flakes, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined and the sauce has a smooth consistency. The end result should be a creamy, savory sauce that compliments the earthy flavor of the tofu and the spices in the rice perfectly. Pour the sauce over the tofu and rice just before serving for a delicious meal.

Thai tofu rice health benefits

Thai tofu rice can have a number of health benefits due to its ingredients. Tofu is a rich source of plant-based protein, which can help support muscle growth and repair. Brown rice is a complex carbohydrate that can provide sustained energy and help regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, the dish typically includes vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and onions, which are packed with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, it’s important to note that the healthfulness of the dish can depend on the specific recipe and cooking method used. If you’re looking for another recipe that is both tasty and healthy, you might consider a quinoa salad with plenty of colorful veggies, beans, and a light dressing. Quinoa is another great source of protein and fiber, and the vegetables will provide a range of vitamins and minerals.

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