Spicy Tofu Poke Bowl

A poke-style bowl brings together seasoned rice, fresh vegetables and a savoury topping in a format that is colourful, filling and easy to customise. Here, firm tofu stands in for the usual fish, pan-fried until lightly golden and coated in a punchy sriracha-soy dressing with toasted sesame oil for depth. Sushi rice gives the bowl its soft, slightly tangy base, while cucumber, carrot and edamame add coolness, crunch and freshness. Finished with spring onion and sesame seeds, it is a quick vegan lunch with heat, umami and plenty of texture.
Cuisine style Poke-inspired fusion
Spice level Medium
Cooking style Meal prep friendly
Time commitment Under 30 minutes

Why this recipe works

  • Fast bowl format: The rice, vegetables and tofu can be prepared in parallel, keeping the total time suitable for a weekday lunch.
  • Good texture contrast: Soft sushi rice, lightly golden tofu, crisp cucumber, shredded carrot and tender edamame give each bowl plenty of variation.
  • Balanced seasoning: Rice vinegar lifts the rice while soy sauce and sriracha add savoury depth, saltiness and heat without needing a separate sauce.

Get the most out of this recipe

Adjust the heat

  • Make it milder: Start with less sriracha and add more only after tasting the dressing with the tofu.
  • Add more heat: Increase the sriracha gradually, balancing with a little extra soy sauce if the dressing needs more savoury depth.

Texture tips

  • Dry the tofu well: Patting the tofu dry before frying helps it brown more effectively and gives it a firmer surface.
  • Keep fresh toppings crisp: Add cucumber and carrot just before serving, especially if preparing the bowl ahead.

Make-ahead tips

  • Store components separately: Keep the rice and tofu apart from the raw vegetables so the toppings stay fresh and the rice can be reheated properly.
  • Good for packed lunches: Prepare the rice, tofu and vegetables in advance, then assemble the bowl after reheating the cooked components.

Ingredient notes

  • Use firm tofu: Firm tofu holds its shape better in the pan and is easier to toss through the spicy dressing.
  • Adjust the vinegar: Rice vinegar gives the sushi rice a gentle tang; white vinegar can be used for a sharper finish.

Equipment you'll need

Ingredients
Instructions
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  1. Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. Cook it in a saucepan according to the packet, then rest off the heat for 10 minutes, covered. Stir in the rice vinegar and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Cook the edamame in boiling water until tender, then drain. Cut the tofu into bite-size cubes and pat dry with kitchen paper. Slice the cucumber, grate the carrot, and slice the spring onion.
  3. Heat the toasted sesame oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning, until lightly golden and warmed through. Reduce the heat to low.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sriracha and soy sauce. Add the warm tofu and toss to coat. Taste and add a little more soy sauce if you want it saltier.
  5. Divide the rice between two bowls and arrange the cucumber, carrot and edamame on top. Spoon over the spicy tofu and any dressing left in the bowl. Finish with spring onion and sesame seeds, then serve.

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Recipe notes

Tips

  • Keep the tofu in a single layer while frying so it browns rather than steams.
  • If you want a milder bowl, start with half the sriracha, then add more to taste.

Substitutions

  • Replace Rice vinegar with White vinegar for a sharper acidity.
  • Replace Soy sauce with Light soy sauce for a slightly lighter, saltier dressing.

Storage

  • Refrigerate up to 2 days
  • Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers, keeping rice separate from the vegetables if possible. Reheat the rice and tofu in the microwave until piping hot, then add the cold cucumber and carrot just before eating.

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Recipe overview

  • Servings: 2 bowls
  • Total time: 25min (20min active)
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: Fusion
  • Allergens:
    Sesame Soybeans
Beginner friendly

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Equipment you'll need

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