Sweet Potato Tofu Bowl Recipe (2024)

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

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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? ›

Why won't my tofu get crisp? This could likely be a result of not drying out the tofu enough to drain out the extra moisture. It's also possible that your oven temperature is not hot enough. Make sure it's preheated and heat the pan in the oven for extra crispness.

What does soaking tofu in salt water do? ›

This salt water soak may seem counterintuitive but it actually helps draw the moisture out of the tofu.

Do you put cornstarch before or after marinating tofu? ›

In this recipe I introduced a well balanced Asian sauce that is savory, a little spicy, and full of aroma. It takes no time to put together. Once the tofu is marinated, I use a cornstarch coating with some cumin powder in it.

Can you toss tofu in flour instead of cornstarch? ›

If you want a crispy outer coating for your tofu, flour can be a great substitute for cornstarch. Simply coat the tofu cubes or slices with a dusting of all-purpose flour before frying. The flour helps create a light and crispy texture while ensuring the tofu stays tender on the inside.

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.

What is the tofu rule? ›

No one cares about unblocking a task as much as the person doing it. That's why it's important for that person to follow the Take Ownership and Follow Up (TOFU) principle. That means taking ownership of the task and chasing the people you are waiting on until it gets done.

What happens if you don't rinse tofu? ›

Any food that is contaminated is going to make you ill. Remove the tofu from the packaging and rinse it thoroughly. If you are handling raw meat at the same time as the tofu, use separate utensils. Other than that, there are no risks to eating raw tofu.

Can you eat raw tofu? ›

How to safely eat raw tofu. While tofu comes in a variety of textures — silken, firm, and extra firm — technically any of them can be eaten raw. Before enjoying raw tofu, drain off any excess liquid from the packaging. It's also important to store tofu properly to prevent germs from growing on any unused portions.

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

Marinate it: Tofu can be marinated in a variety of flavorful sauces or spices. You can use soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and other seasonings to make a simple marinade. Let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to a few hours) before cooking or grilling.

What should I marinate tofu in? ›

In a mixing bowl or measuring cup with a spout, whisk together the marinade: soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, olive oil, sesame oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ginger, and Sriracha. Drizzle over the tofu. If any pieces look bare, turn them over in the marinade a few times so all of the sides are coated.

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 secret to cooking tofu? ›

First, drain and press the tofu.

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 do you make tofu not gross? ›

Simply press firm tofu and use your hands to break it up by smashing it between your fingers until it mimics the texture of scrambled eggs. Then season with turmeric, black pepper, garlic powder, black salt (for an “eggy” flavor, or use sea salt or Tamari instead), and add in your favorite cooked veggies.

Why is my tofu so mushy after cooking? ›

Pressing is a particularly important step for crispy tofu if you are looking to cook without oil. If you do not press you will end up with a mushy texture. Pressing works best if you are going to slice your tofu block.

How do you fix soggy tofu? ›

One good solution is to put the tofu, in its original whole block, on a plate or sheet pan. Tip it at a slight angle by propping up one side. Put a weight — a plate will be just fine — on the tofu. Leave it there for 15–30 minutes.

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!

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