There’s something truly magical about a bowl meal that bursts with vibrant colors, diverse textures, and bold flavors like this Tofu Poke Bowl Recipe. Imagine juicy cubes of marinated tofu—crispy and golden—nestled over a bed of fluffy rice and surrounded by fresh veggies, creamy avocado, and a drizzle of nutty peanut sauce. Every bite tastes like sunshine and comfort, making this recipe a must-try for those wanting both nourishment and excitement in a single bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Tofu Poke Bowl Recipe comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients that each offer something special—whether it’s crunch, creaminess, color, or a punch of umami flavor. Don’t skip on any; they work in harmony for a truly crave-worthy meal!

Extra Firm Tofu (14 ounces): Extra firmness is key for the crispiest tofu cubes that hold up beautifully after marinating and cooking.
Soy Sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds a deep, savory umami base to the tofu marinade.
Sesame Oil (1 tablespoon): Brings an irresistible toasty aroma and nutty flavor to both marinade and sauce.
Lime Juice (2 tablespoons total): Provides a tangy brightness—half goes in the marinade, half in the peanut sauce.
Maple Syrup (1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon): Natural sweetness softens the marinade and sauce; can sub honey if desired.
Ground Ginger (1 teaspoon): Lends a zesty, warming note that ties the flavors together.
Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds round, subtle depth without overpowering.
Cooked Rice (2 cups): A neutral, fluffy base for all the toppings; white, brown, or sushi rice all work.
Cucumber (1 cup, julienned): Brings fresh, cooling crunch and gorgeous green color.
Shredded Carrots (1 cup): Adds a sweet crunch and an inviting pop of orange.
Avocado (1, sliced): Creamy richness that pairs perfectly with the tangy sauce and savory tofu.
Edamame Beans (1/2 cup, cooked): For a boost of plant-based protein and bright green color.
Red Cabbage (1/2 cup, shredded): Offers crunch and a beautiful purple hue.
Sesame Seeds (1 tablespoon, optional): Sprinkle on top for extra flavor, crunch, and flair.
Peanut Butter (3 tablespoons): The star of the creamy, luscious sauce that ties it all together.
Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon, for the sauce): Infuses the dressing with depth and saltiness.
Lime Juice (1 tablespoon, for the sauce): Keeps the peanut sauce bright and zippy.
Sesame Oil (1 teaspoon, for the sauce): The finishing touch for a fragrant dressing.
Honey or Maple Syrup (1 teaspoon): Adds that final balance of sweetness to the sauce.
Warm Water (3-4 tablespoons): Thins the peanut sauce to just the right drizzle-friendly consistency.

How to Make Tofu Poke Bowl Recipe

Step 1: Press and Prep Your Tofu

For deliciously crisp tofu, you want to remove as much moisture as possible. Wrap your extra firm tofu in paper towels and sandwich it between two plates. Then, set a heavy cookbook on top and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This step is simple but makes a world of difference for texture.

Step 2: Marinate the Tofu

Whisk together 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder in a bowl. Cube the pressed tofu and toss it gently in this mixture. The marinade seeps in, infusing every bite with umami and spice.

Step 3: Let Tofu Soak Up the Flavor

Pop your marinated tofu into the fridge for at least 15 minutes. If you’ve got a little extra time, letting it marinate for up to an hour will deepen the flavor even further. Now your tofu is soaking up all those sweet, salty, and tangy notes!

Step 4: Prepare Your Veggies and Rice

While the tofu works its magic, prep your poke bowl base. Slice up your cucumber, avocado, and cabbage, shred your carrots, and cook your edamame beans if you haven’t already. Have your rice warm and ready—it provides a cozy foundation for all the toppings.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Peanut Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons peanut butter, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, and 3-4 tablespoons warm water. Adjust with a bit more water if you like your sauce extra drizzly. This sauce is a dream—sweet, savory, and luxuriously creamy.

Step 6: Cook the Marinated Tofu

Thread the marinated tofu cubes onto skewers for easy flipping. Air fry at 400 degrees F for 10 minutes, turning halfway, or pan-fry over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, turning so all sides become crispy and golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing as the tofu caramelizes!

Step 7: Build Your Bowl

Add a scoop of rice to each bowl. Arrange your cucumber, shredded carrots, sliced avocado, edamame, and red cabbage in colorful groups around the edges. Carefully lay your golden tofu satay on top, the true centerpiece of the Tofu Poke Bowl Recipe.

Step 8: Sauce and Garnish

Drizzle that silky peanut sauce generously over your bowl, then finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for the ultimate crunch and eye-catching finish. You’re ready to dig in!

How to Serve Tofu Poke Bowl Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your Tofu Poke Bowl Recipe with the simplest of finishing touches: a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, extra lime wedges, or sliced green onions. These little flourishes add punchy flavor and make your bowl absolutely irresistible to look at—and eat!

Side Dishes

This poke bowl shines bright on its own but pairs beautifully with sides like miso soup, seaweed salad, or crunchy pickled veggies. If you’re really going for a feast, serve with crispy wonton chips for dipping in extra peanut sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting or just want a fun lunch, serve toppings “bar-style” so everyone can create their own Tofu Poke Bowl Recipe masterpiece. Or pack them into mason jars for a colorful, portable meal that will make everyone at the office (or picnic) jealous.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any components you don’t finish stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The tofu, rice, veggies, and sauce will all last 2-3 days; this keeps the fresh ingredients crisp and everything tasting its best.

Freezing

If you want to make your tofu in advance, you can freeze just the cooked tofu cubes. Pop them in a single layer on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Pull them out as needed for future Tofu Poke Bowl Recipes!

Reheating

To reheat your tofu, pop it into an air fryer or oven for a few minutes to bring back that satisfying crispiness. Rice can be warmed in the microwave with a splash of water to soften. The veggies and sauce are best enjoyed fresh, so add these after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of tofu?

Absolutely! Tempeh, seared mushrooms, grilled shrimp, or even cooked chicken can step in for the tofu if you want to change things up. Just keep the marinades and sauces for all that great flavor.

Is this Tofu Poke Bowl Recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Just swap out the soy sauce for tamari or a certified gluten-free alternative. Check your other additions, like sauces, to be sure.

How do I keep my avocado from browning?

Squeeze extra lime juice over the sliced avocado and add it to your bowl right before serving. This helps preserve its color and creamy texture.

Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The peanut sauce will keep perfectly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If it thickens up, just whisk in a splash of water before serving.

Do I have to air fry the tofu?

Nope! The tofu can be cooked in a skillet or even baked in the oven if you don’t have an air fryer. Just aim for a golden, crispy exterior for that lovely contrast in the Tofu Poke Bowl Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Tofu Poke Bowl Recipe is joy in a bowl—easy to make, endlessly customizable, and packed with flavors you’ll crave again and again. Give it a try, get a little creative with your toppings, and don’t forget to share it with someone you love (or keep it all for yourself, we won’t judge!). Happy poké making!

Tofu Poke Bowl Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 23 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Tofu Poke Bowl Recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines marinated tofu with fresh veggies, rice, and a flavorful peanut sauce. It’s a satisfying and healthy meal that’s easy to make at home.

Instructions

Press the Tofu: Wrap tofu in paper towels, place between plates, and press for 15 minutes.
Marinate Tofu: Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, maple syrup, ginger, and garlic. Toss tofu cubes in the marinade and refrigerate for 15 minutes to 1 hour.
Prepare Ingredients: Slice cucumber, avocado, cabbage. Cook edamame beans and rice.
Make Peanut Sauce: Mix peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, honey, and water. Adjust consistency.
Cook Tofu: Air fry or skillet-cook marinated tofu until golden and crispy.
Assemble Poke Bowl: Layer rice, veggies, and tofu in serving bowls.
Drizzle Sauce: Top with peanut sauce and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

You can customize this poke bowl with your favorite veggies or toppings.
Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the marinade and sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Air Fry, Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 460
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Tofu Poke Bowl, Poke Bowl Recipe, Tofu Recipe, Vegetarian Bowl