Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl Recipe (2024)

Published: by Nisha Melvani, RDN · This post may contain affiliate links · 2 Comments

Jump to Recipe

Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl with crispy tofu bacon bits, roasted sweet potato wedges, massaged kale, quinoa, crunchy roasted pepitas, and crispy shallots. This flavorful power bowl recipe is healthy, vegan, and easy to make.

this RECIPE

This is your sign to start grating your tofu! Use a wide cabbage peeler to make thin strips and marinate them in my smoky seasoning. Even self-proclaimed tofu haters won't be able to resist these crispy tofu bites. Or you can crumble the tofu into small pieces instead. This increases its surface area, making the tofu even more flavorful.

Meal prep this Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl ahead of time for a quick weeknight dinner. It's tasty both warm and chilled. Plus, it's high in plant-based protein, fiber, and iron.

This recipe was inspired by my Vegan Pastrami made from tofu, as well as this Easy Vegan Butter Chicken with Tofu.

Jump to:
  • 👩🏼‍🌾 Ingredients
  • 🥬 Substitutions
  • 📖 How to Make Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl
  • 💡 Expert Tips
  • 🙋🏽‍♀️ Recipe FAQs
  • 🍽 Related Recipes
  • 👩🏽‍🍳 Made This Recipe?
  • 📖 Recipe
  • 💬 Comments

👩🏼‍🌾 Ingredients

Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl Recipe (2)
  • Kale
  • Extra firm tofu
  • Sweet potato
  • Pepitas
  • Quinoa
  • Lemon
  • Garlic
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic powder
  • Chipotle powder or smoked paprika
  • Optional: Aleppo pepper or ancho chili powder, and za'atar

See the recipe card for quantities.

🥬 Substitutions

  • Kale - use lacinato or curly kale
  • Pepitas (hulled pumpkin seeds) - substitute with sunflower seeds, pecans, or omit entirely
  • Aleppo pepper - substitute with ancho chili powder or chipotle powder
  • Za'atar - add a sprinkle of za'atar to the salad for a subtle citrusy and nutty flavor
  • Nonspicy - this salad has a slight kick, but you can use smoked paprika instead of chipotle powder and Aleppo pepper for nonspicy
  • Extra dressing - add Lemon Herb Tahini as desired

Try these Healthy Sweet Potato Recipes. Visit my Vegan Salad Recipes page for more healthy salad ideas.

📖 How to Make Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl

For the full Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl recipe, scroll down to the bottom of the post. This is an overview.

Preheat the oven to 425ºF.

Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl Recipe (3)

Step 1. Use a Y-peeler or a large cabbage peeler to slice the tofu into thin sheets. Or crumble the tofu with your hands into small pieces (tofu crumbles).

Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl Recipe (4)

Step 2. In a medium bowl, mix the tamari, coconut aminos, chipotle powder, and garlic powder. Transfer the tofu to the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss the tofu until it is evenly coated in the marinade. Set aside.

Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl Recipe (5)

Step 3. Transfer the sweet potato to a large baking sheet. Add a drizzle of olive oil, Aleppo pepper, and salt to taste. Toss to coat the wedges evenly.

Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl Recipe (6)

Step 4. Transfer the shallots to a second large baking sheet. Add a drizzle of olive oil and salt to taste.

Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl Recipe (7)

Step 5. Transfer the tofu to a third large, rimmed baking sheet. Spread the pieces in an even layer.

Roast the tofu and veggies for about 20 minutes, or until caramelized and tender, with the sweet potato on the top rack, shallots in the middle, and tofu on the bottom. Toss the vegetables after 10 minutes, and the tofu every 5 minutes.

Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl Recipe (8)

Step 6. Place the torn kale into a large bowl. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Massage the kale until bright green and shiny.

Add the tofu, quinoa, pepitas, and shallots. Toss to combine. Serve topped with the sweet potato.

💡 Expert Tips

  • Quinoa: For one cup of cooked quinoa, use one-third cup dry. Cook in vegetable broth for even more flavor.
  • Crispy tofu: Spread the tofu in a thin and even layer on a large baking sheet so it browns evenly. Toss frequently so it does not burn.
  • Seasoning: The seasoning for this salad truly makes it unique. Aleppo pepper and za'atar add spicy, citrusy, and nutty undertones. However, feel free to omit them as needed.
  • Toasted pepitas - Toasting the pumpkin seeds is optional. To toast, preheat your oven to around 325°F. Sprinkle with salt or any other desired seasonings. (Optional–add a drizzle of oil.) Spread the pepitas in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring or shaking the pan halfway through.
  • Dressing - This salad has many flavors and does not require additional dressing. However, I enjoy the creaminess of this Lemon Herb Tahini with the sweet potato.
  • Storage: Refrigerate any remaining salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

🙋🏽‍♀️ Recipe FAQs

What is Aleppo pepper?

Aleppo-style pepper comesfrom a burgundy chile also known as the Halaby pepper and is about half asspicy as most chili flakes. Its taste can be described as a balance of mild heat and fruity, slightly sweet undertones.

Should I peel the sweet potato?

The skin of sweet potatoes contains additional fiber and nutrients, including antioxidants. However, If you prefer a smoother texture, you may want to peel them.

Can I prep this the day before?

To prep this Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl ahead of time, cook the quinoa, tear the kale, peel and cut the shallots, cut the sweet potato, toast the pepitas, and marinate the tofu. Refrigerate in airtight containers.

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👩🏽‍🍳 Made This Recipe?

Share yourSweet Potato Tofu Bowl creation with me onInstagram. It makes my day to see you recreate my recipes.

I would love it if you would rate this recipe and leave a comment. Thank you in advance.

📖 Recipe

Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl Recipe (13)

Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl

Nisha Melvani

Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl with crispy tofu bacon bits, roasted sweet potato wedges, massaged kale, quinoa, crunchy roasted pepitas, & crispy shallots. This flavorful recipe is healthy, vegan, and easy to make.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Vegan

Servings 5 people

Calories 425 kcal

Ingredients

For the tofu:

  • 14 to 16 ounces extra firm tofu pressed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon coconut aminos or 2 teaspoons maple syrup mixed with 1 teaspoon water
  • ¾ teaspoon chipotle powder or smoked paprika
  • ¾ teaspoon garlic powder

For roasting:

  • 1 large sweet potato cut into ½-inch-thick wedges
  • Drizzle of olive oil
  • Generous dash of Aleppo pepper or ancho chili powder or chipotle powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 6 medium shallots peeled and quartered, or sliced thinly into rings

For the dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon)
  • 1 large garlic clove

For the salad:

  • 1 pound kale stemmed and torn
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • ½ cup pepitas toasted

Optional seasoning:

  • Dash of Za'atar
  • Dash of Aleppo pepper
  • Herb tahini dressing

Instructions

  • Prepare tofu: Use a Y-peeler or a large cabbage peeler to slice the tofu into thin sheets. Or crumble the tofu with your hands into small pieces (tofu crumbles).

    In a medium bowl, mix the tamari, coconut aminos, chipotle powder, and garlic powder. Transfer the tofu to the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss the tofu until it is evenly coated in the marinade. Set aside.

  • For roasting: Position racks in the upper, middle, and lower thirds of the oven. Preheat the oven to 425ºF.

    Transfer the sweet potato to a large baking sheet. Add a generous drizzle of olive oil, Aleppo pepper, and salt to taste. Toss to coat the wedges evenly.

    Transfer the shallots to a second large baking sheet. Add a generous drizzle of olive oil and salt to taste.

    Transfer the tofu to a third large, rimmed baking sheet. Spread the pieces in an even layer.

    Roast for about 20 minutes, or until caramelized and tender, with the sweet potato on the top rack, shallots in the middle, and tofu on the bottom. Toss the vegetables after 10 minutes, and the tofu every 5 minutes.

  • Massage the kale: Place the torn kale into a large bowl. Add 3 tablespoons olive oil, and lemon juice. Grate or press the garlic onto the kale. Massage the kale until bright green and shiny.

  • Combine: Add the tofu, quinoa, pepitas, and shallots. Toss to combine. Serve topped with the sweet potato.

  • Optional seasonings: Sprinkle the salad with Aleppo pepper, and za'atar for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Quinoa: For one cup of cooked quinoa, use one-third cup dry. Cook in vegetable broth for even more flavor.
  • Crispy tofu: Spread the tofu in a thin and even layer on a large baking sheet so it browns evenly. Toss frequently so it does not burn.
  • Seasoning: The seasoning for this salad truly makes it unique. Aleppo pepper and za'atar add spicy, citrusy, and nutty undertones. However, feel free to omit them as needed.
  • Dressing - This salad has many flavors and does not require additional dressing. However, I enjoy the creaminess of this Lemon Herb Tahini with the sweet potato.
  • Storage: Refrigerate any remaining salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 425kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.004g | Sodium: 390mg | Potassium: 916mg | Fiber: 11g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 19041IU | Vitamin C: 93mg | Calcium: 339mg | Iron: 5mg

This information is provided as a courtesy and is an ESTIMATE only. Varying factors such as product types or brands purchased can change the nutritional information in any given recipe.

Tried this recipe?Let me know how it was!

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Reader Interactions

Comments

    Leave a Comment

  1. krista

    Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl Recipe (18)
    SO GOOD. Made as written but added a cut up avocado and Trader Joe’s crispy jalapeño pieces on top which was *chef’s kiss* delicious. Will definitely add to my rotation!

    Reply

    • Nisha Melvani, RDN

      A chef's kiss for sure! Sounds amazing! Thank you.

      Reply

Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Why is my baked tofu not crispy? ›

2) Squeeze out as much moisture as possible.

Water-logged tofu never gets super crispy. The key here is to slice the tofu into pieces before pressing it.

What does soaking tofu in salt water do? ›

Soaking tofu in salted water is an alternative to pressing or freezing, and it takes just 15 minutes. It draws out excess water from the tofu for a crispier crust. Plus, it has the added benefit of seasoning the tofu by osmosis as the salty solution displaces the unseasoned water content inside.

Do you put cornstarch before or after marinating tofu? ›

Once the tofu is marinated, I use a cornstarch coating with some cumin powder in it. Not only does it create a super crispy result, but the seasoning further brings out the flavor of the tofu.

What is a substitute for cornstarch in baked tofu? ›

Substitutions: If you prefer not to cook with cornstarch, you can substitute in an equal volume of all-purpose flour or potato starch. Tofu: This recipe can also be made with medium-firm tofu, but you'll need to be a bit more gentle while pressing and coating it.

What not to mix with tofu? ›

What to not serve with tofu? According to studies, a high volume consumption of tofu and spinach together can increase your risk of kidney stones. Tofu and spinach contain calcium and oxalic acid respectively and the combined can form kidney stones.

Do you season tofu before or after baking? ›

Allow tofu to cook, undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes or until the underside is golden brown and crispy. Step 2: Flip the tofu pieces and season the cooked side with salt. Allow the second side to cook for an additional 4 minutes or until the second side is golden brown and crispy.

Can you eat raw tofu? ›

Eat it raw: Tofu is completely safe to eat raw. Whether you press it or marinate it, you can use raw tofu in salads, smoothies, or have it as a protein-packed snack. Marinating: Since tofu has a bland flavor, marinating it is very popular.

Do you need to rinse tofu? ›

She encourages people to treat tofu in a similar manner to canned beans, which we are taught to drain and rinse before using. She finds that doing so can help eliminate any off-flavors from preservatives in the water for liquid-packed tofu.

Can you soak tofu too long? ›

You can leave the tofu in the bag with the marinade for as little as 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. Can I marinate tofu overnight? Technically, yes, but in our tests, the tofu that marinated for longer than 4 hours absorbed too much of the marinade and ended up less flavorful and crispy.

What can I add to tofu to make it taste better? ›

Toss the cubes with olive oil, tamari or soy sauce, and sriracha. If desired, you could also add cornstarch to make the cubes extra crispy. Finally, bake! Transfer the baking sheet to a 425°F oven and cook until the cubes are browned around the edges.

How to cook tofu for beginners? ›

Heat a large oven-safe metal or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the oil and the seasoned tofu. Sauté for 5 minutes, shaking/flipping occasionally to cook on all sides, until tofu has a slight crust on each side and has begun to brown.

What is the best way to season tofu? ›

"Usually the easiest way is to use salt, paper, shaoxing wine [a Chinese cooking wine], and cornstarch." Another easy marinade she loves is 2 parts soy sauce to 1 part maple syrup. Add cut or torn pieces of tofu to a resealable freezer bag holding the marinade. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes.

Why is cornstarch not vegan? ›

If you've been vegan for a while you might have noticed by now that things are sometimes not as vegan as they look. While cornstarch itself does not contain any animal products, the production process is not free from cruelty or exploitation.

How much cornstarch for one block of tofu? ›

Ingredients
  1. 1 (14- to 16-ounce) block. extra-firm tofu.
  2. 1 teaspoon. kosher salt.
  3. 3 tablespoons. cornstarch.
  4. 2 tablespoons. vegetable oil.

Why is my baked tofu rubbery? ›

Why does tofu get rubbery? Because it was probably overcooked, it was probably exposed to too much heat. I don't know if it was roasted baked air fried or sauteed, but when it becomes, uh, overcooked, it's gonna get very, very tough.

How do you bake tofu to dry it out? ›

Arrange tofu on a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking and bake for a total of 25-35 minutes, flipping once halfway through to ensure even cooking. This will dry out the tofu and help give it a more meat-like texture. If you want a tougher texture, cook it for 30-35.

How do you cook tofu so it's not mushy? ›

For the best texture, press the tofu using a tofu press or cast-iron skillet for 20 to 30 minutes. If you're short on time, just drain the tofu and gently press it in a kitchen towel or paper towels over the sink. The tofu won't be as firm this way, but it will still be delicious!

How to make tofu crispy like a restaurant? ›

There are a few tricks to perfect tofu. First, tossing cubed tofu with cornstarch will help you get a crispier exterior when baking or stir-frying. Pressing the block of tofu to eliminate excess moisture also helps. And you'll want to make sure you're using high enough heat.

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