25 Easy Tofu Recipes That’ll Make You Adore Tofu

These easy tofu recipes will have you look at vegan-friendly proteins in a new light! From creamy curries to delicious stir fries, these healthy dishes will spice up your weeknight dinner menu.

Love this? Try these 35 High Protein Vegan Recipes!

If you’re trying to experiment with Meatless Monday recipes but don’t know where to start – I’ve got you.

I know the feeling. I had no idea where to begin when I started adding tofu to my recipes.

Tofu just tasted like a bland block of nothingness. But then, I discovered the secret – it’s all about the marinades and how you cook it!

Once you get the hang of it, tofu can be incredibly versatile and downright delicious. It’s like a sponge, soaking up all the flavors you throw at it.

So, I’m going to share some of my favorite tofu recipes that are not only easy to make but are packed with flavor. We’re talking about zesty marinades, a mix of spices, and loads of fresh veggies that bring everything together.

Whether you’re craving hearty tofu soup or simply want to switch up your weekly bento boxes, these recipe ideas won’t disappoint.

Types of Tofu

Before we look at recipes, you might want to know that tofu’s not just a single thing – it’s super versatile and comes in all sorts of types. It’s been a big deal in Asian cooking for ages, and now it’s pretty much everywhere because it’s so adaptable and good for you. 

Let me walk you through the different kinds of tofu you might come across:

• Silken (or Soft) Tofu: Think of this as the gentle one in the family. It’s really soft, kind of like custard. Super good for blending into smoothies, whipping up some desserts, or even slipping into a comforting bowl of miso soup.
• Medium Tofu: This one’s a step up from silken – a little firmer, but not too tough. It’s just right for soups where you want a bit of a bite but nothing too chewy.
• Firm Tofu: Now we’re getting into the tofu that can take a bit of a beating. It’s sturdy, so you can fry it, bake it, or throw it into a stir-fry. Plus, it soaks up flavors like a champ.
• Extra-Firm Tofu: This is your tough guy in the tofu world. Really dense and holds its shape like a pro. Perfect for grilling, pan-frying, or any recipe where you want that hearty, meaty kind of texture. It’s my favorite tofu to use in most recipes.
• Pressed Tofu: Imagine taking tofu and squeezing out all the water to make it super firm and chewy. That’s pressed tofu for you. It’s a hit in Chinese stir-fries.
• Sprouted Tofu: Here’s a healthy twist – tofu made from sprouted soybeans. People say it’s easier to digest and packed with more nutrients.
• Frozen Tofu: Ever freeze tofu? When it thaws, it gets this spongy, almost meaty texture. It’s a neat trick to mimic meat, especially in vegan and vegetarian dishes.
• Smoked Tofu: They smoke it to give it this incredible flavor and aroma. It’s great as a snack or to add to sandwiches.
• Flavored or Marinated Tofu: And then there’s the tofu that’s already spiced up with flavors like teriyaki or lemon herb. It saves you the seasoning step and is ready to cook straight out of the package.

Just remember, the type of tofu you pick should match your dish. And the recipes below will let you know which kind to use for the best result.

25 Easy Tofu Recipes Perfect For Beginners 

Sesame Crusted Tofu

Crispy, creamy, and super comforting, this sesame-crusted tofu is an Asian-inspired delight.

I can’t get enough of the silky tofu texture, but the sweet and salty marinade takes this simple ingredient to the next level.

Serve it on a bed of fluffy rice and throw in some salt and chili edamame for a protein-packed weeknight meal!

Easy Fried Tofu

When you can’t face the kitchen, this easy fried tofu recipe is a ginger and paprika-spiced dream.

The turmeric turns everything a glorious golden-brown color, while the extra-firm tofu keeps things crispy and textured.

And did I mention that there’s virtually no prep work involved with this recipe?

Just coat the cubes in cornstarch mix and fry away!

Tofu Coconut Curry

If you’ve been on the lookout for easy tofu recipes that double as amazing winter warmers, I’ve got you.

This Thai-inspired coconut curry is loaded with plant-based protein, soft butternut squash, and colorful veggies.

Plus, it’s 100% gluten-free, vegan, and delicious (thank the aromatic base of ginger, garlic, and onion for that!).

Air Fryer Tofu

If you have an air fryer, this recipe is a must-try.

Air-frying tofu creates a perfectly crispy crust without using excessive amounts of oil.

These golden cubes are ready in 10 minutes flat and get a delicious flavor from garlic powder and paprika.

Oh, and the umami kick you get from the soy sauce and sesame oil is just delicious!

Crispy Teriyaki tofu

Is there anything better than a bed of fluffy rice topped with slightly sweet and sticky tofu cubes?

This Teriyaki tofu is ready in just 20 minutes and rivals any dish you’d get from a local Japanese restaurant.

The sticky sauce is incredibly satisfying, and I love the crunch you get from coating the tofu in cornstarch.

Vegan Tofu Katsu Curry

This vegan katsu curry is one of my favorite quick and easy dinners to whip up when I’m in a hurry.

The panko breadcrumbs give the tofu an amazing crunchy exterior, while the carrot-based curry sauce brings the creaminess.

Throw in a bunch of warm rice and some crispy spring onions for a total dinnertime delight.

Tofu Scramble

I’m always up for a plate of scrambled eggs in the morning, but this tofu scramble might just steal the breakfast crown.

Softened garlic gives this easy recipe a ton of savory flavor, and I love the burst of sweetness from the cherry tomatoes.

But the mixture of soy sauce, turmeric, and nutritional yeast makes each bite shine!

Crispy Baked Garlic Black Pepper Tofu

Crispy tofu that’s delicious in rice bowls, stir-fries, noodles, and everything in between? Yes PLEASE!

This is one of the best tofu recipes to try out if you’re looking for a puffy and crispy golden brown crust.

And to make things even more appealing?

Well, you just need a dash of olive oil, soy sauce, and a few spices to make the magic happen!

Marinated Tofu

This delicious marinated tofu proves that this plant-based powerhouse is anything but bland!

This recipe combines sweet maple syrup with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

The result is a slightly sweet and super savory pile of tofu that’s silky on the inside and crispy on the outside!

Vegan Stir Fry Noodles

Tofu stir fry noodles are one of my go-to easy tofu recipes for when I’m short on time but crave a plateful of veggies.

The crunchy bok choy and red bell peppers keep this dish vibrant.

But the soy sauce and ginger sauce steal the show and give the crispy tofu an extra savory flavor.

Crispy Tofu Tacos

Mexican night just got a plant-based makeover with these deliciously crunchy tofu tacos!

The tofu cubes are perfectly seasoned with garlic, cumin, chipotle powder, and chili powder (for extra heat).

And this recipe also includes black beans for extra protein power!

Vegan Poke Bowl

Transport yourself right to the glistening shores of Hawaii with rainbow veggies, crispy tofu, and sweet mango!

The combination of radishes, cabbage, and edamame beans gives this tasty poke bowl plenty of texture.

And the marinated tofu cubes and slices of avocado balance this lunchtime marvel with protein and healthy fat!

Smoked Tofu Sandwich

Ask anyone – I’m obsessed with healthy sandwiches loaded with wholesome ingredients.

The smoked tofu is the star of the show here, but the chewy ciabatta bread is a close second!

Top things off with tahini sauce, ripe avocado, peppery arugula, and sweet tomatoes for the ultimate feel-good lunch.

Grilled Tofu

When it’s grill season, there’s no better way to celebrate the sunshine than with glorious grilled tofu!

The tofu stays tender and juicy inside but gets an incredibly crispy char on the outside.

In short, it’s a texture sensation that works wonderfully on everything from burgers to sandwiches and salads!

Vegan Ramen

I love a comforting and creamy soup. 

But this vegan ramen packs an authentic umami punch that rocks during the wintertime.

It combines meaty mushrooms with crispy tofu, crunchy veggies, and an incredible miso broth that’s totally sip-worthy.

Tofu Meatballs

I didn’t think I could get on board with tofu meatballs as an Italian.

But these hearty balls of goodness get so much flavor from Dijon mustard, tamari, and dry seasonings (I’m a convert!).

And don’t worry – they get tons of texture and fiber from flax meal and ground rolled oats.

Vegan Meal Prep Bowls

This tofu sesame noodle bowl is one of those tofu recipes that perfectly balances protein and savory flavors.

The soy sauce is central to giving your tofu and noodles an incredible umami kick that instantly lifts this box of goodness.

Crispy Tofu Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce

I love traditional wraps loaded with tasty toppings, but this low-carb alternative lets the filling take center stage.

The spring veggies are seriously delicious (the crunch on the radish is fantastic!), and I can’t get enough of the peanut sauce.

And the soy, garlic, and sesame-marinated tofu? It’s just the crispy cherry on top!

Weeknight Tofu Stir Fry

This easy tofu recipe combines basic ingredients with super tasty honey and sesame sauce for an explosion of flavor.

I usually use a mixture of bell peppers and broccoli for sweetness and a hit of iron and fiber, but any veggies work!

Just remember to use extra-firm tofu to give it half a chance to crisp up in that glorious savory sauce!

Tofu Bolognese

This vegan bolognese is stuffed with veggies and simmered on low for a seriously rich flavor.

The crumbled tofu tastes surprisingly like ground beef, and the sauteed mushrooms add plenty of fantastic texture.

Plus, it’s ready to rumble in just 30 minutes!

Easy Tofu Soup

This tofu soup is loaded with crunchy veggies, leafy greens, and protein.

This steaming bowl is made with simple ingredients paired with a rich tomatoey broth and lots of aromatics.

The result is a super savory dish that can be eaten as a main meal, a side dish, or a starter!

Kung Pao Tofu

I’m a big fan of the flavors in Kung Pao dishes, but this veggie-heavy delight will have you swapping chicken for tofu every time.

The bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and peanuts blend with a spicy sauce that tastes just as good as takeout.

Vegan Slow Cooker Tofu Tikka Masala

Is there anything more comforting and satisfying than a piping-hot curry with a hunk of fluffy naan bread?

This vegan tofu masala softens beautifully in the slow cooker and can be prepped ahead for those Manic Mondays.

Tofu Banh Mi Sandwich

Marinated tofu, pickled vegetables, and cilantro come together in this Vietnamese-inspired Banh Mi sandwich.

The crispy baguette is the perfect partner for the extra-firm (but silky!) tofu.

Throw in the coconut aminos and spicy sriracha, and you’ll have a major palate-pleaser on your hands! 

Tofu Kale Salad with Coconut Peanut Dressing

I’ll never turn down old-school lettuce salad recipes.

But this kale-filled wonder has a creamy coconut peanut sauce that I love.

The crispy tofu adds texture and protein. Plus, the entire dish is ready in under 40 minutes.

Now that’s an easy tofu recipe I can get behind!

Which one is your favorite tofu recipe? Let me know in the comments!