Name: Crispy Tofu Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 block firm tofu (14–16 oz / 400–450 g); 2½ tablespoons cornstarch; 2½ tablespoons nutritional yeast; 2½ tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oil (canola, vegetable, avocado, or olive oil); ¼ teaspoon white pepper; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; 5 cups cooked white rice; 2 tablespoons neutral oil; 1 cup white onion, diced; ½ cup carrots, diced; ½ cup diced green beans (or frozen peas or chopped snow peas); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 scallion, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated); 2 teaspoons light soy sauce; 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce; ½ teaspoon sesame oil; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 pinch turmeric (optional, for color); ⅛ teaspoon white pepper; ½ cup frozen corn kernels; 2 cups mung bean sprouts

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 74 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that combines comforting flavors with a satisfying crunch, this Crispy Tofu Fried Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, colorful meal packed with crispy, golden tofu chunks that are bursting with flavor, fresh vegetables that bring a delightful crunch, and perfectly seasoned rice that ties everything together. Every bite offers a harmony of textures and aromas that will make you feel like you’re enjoying a homemade takeout classic—only better because you made it yourself!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three white dishes on a white marbled surface. On the top left, a clear glass bowl contains large, crumbly chunks of pale beige tofu. Below the glass bowl, a round white dish holds six sections of chopped vegetables arranged separately: yellow corn kernels, orange diced carrots, white chopped onions, white bean sprouts, and bright green chopped long beans with small round pieces. On the right, a small white bowl has two piles of finely chopped ingredients; one is pale yellow minced garlic and the other is chopped green onions with white and green parts mixed. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Crispy Tofu Fried Rice Recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the dish’s irresistible texture and depth of flavor. From the firm tofu providing that crunchy bite, to the seasonings that build layers of taste, every component is essential.

Firm tofu (14–16 oz / 400–450 g): The star protein, firm enough to crisp perfectly without falling apart.
Cornstarch (2½ tablespoons): Creates the crispy coating on the tofu for that perfect crunch.
Nutritional yeast (2½ tablespoons): Adds a subtle cheesy, savory note to the tofu.
Soy sauce (2½ tablespoons for tofu, 3 teaspoons total for rice): Brings umami and saltiness to both tofu and rice.
Oil (2 tablespoons for tofu, 2 tablespoons for rice): A neutral oil like canola or vegetable helps with frying and stir-frying without overpowering flavors.
White pepper (¼ + ⅛ teaspoon): Adds a mild spicy warmth without black pepper’s sharpness.
Garlic powder (¼ teaspoon): Deepens the tofu’s savory flavor.
Cooked white rice (5 cups): Day-old rice or freshly cooked and cooled makes the perfect base for stir-frying.
White onion (1 cup, diced): Offers sweetness and crunch when stir-fried.
Carrots (½ cup, diced): Adds hint of sweetness and vibrant color.
Green beans or peas (½ cup): For fresh green pops that elevate the dish’s texture.
Garlic cloves (2, minced): Essential for that aromatic punch.
Scallions (1, sliced): Both white and green parts add layers of fresh onion flavor.
Dark soy sauce (1 teaspoon): Adds color and slightly richer soy depth.
Sesame oil (½ teaspoon): A little goes a long way to impart that nutty, toasty aroma.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances all the flavors.
Turmeric (pinch, optional): Brightens the rice with a subtle earthy hue.
Frozen corn kernels (½ cup): Sweet bursts of juiciness.
Mung bean sprouts (2 cups): Adds refreshing crispness just before serving.

How to Make Crispy Tofu Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

Start by gently pressing the tofu to remove excess water—this step is key for achieving maximum crispiness. Then, whisk together cornstarch, nutritional yeast, soy sauce, oil, and spices to create a flavorful coating. Toss the tofu chunks in this mixture to ensure every bite will be coated in a tasty crust.

Step 2: Cook the Tofu Until Crispy

You have two great options here—air fry the tofu at 400°F for about 12 to 14 minutes, shaking halfway, or pan-fry it in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown on all sides. Either way, the tofu develops those irresistible crispy edges that make this recipe shine.

Step 3: Prep and Cook the Rice and Vegetables

If you’re working with leftover rice, break up any clumps and let it come to room temperature for best stir-frying. If cooking fresh rice, use slightly less water than usual so it’s drier and perfect for frying. Heat oil in a wok until just smoking, then add the onions, carrots, and green beans. Stir-fry for a few minutes until they soften slightly but retain their crunch. Toss in the garlic and white scallion parts and cook for another 30 seconds to draw out their fragrance.

Step 4: Combine Rice with Seasonings

Increase the wok’s heat to high and add the rice. Stir-fry energetically, scraping the wok’s bottom to avoid sticking. After a minute of tossing the rice, add the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, turmeric, and white pepper. Stir well until the rice is evenly colored and soaked with flavor.

Step 5: Finish with Vegetables and Tofu

Finally, stir in frozen corn, mung bean sprouts, green scallion tops, and the golden crispy tofu. Cook just long enough for the bean sprouts to soften slightly, preserving their fresh crunch. Serve immediately to enjoy the tofu’s crispness alongside the luscious fried rice.

How to Serve Crispy Tofu Fried Rice Recipe

A bowl of fried rice filled with three main layers: the base layer is light brown fried rice grains mixed with small pieces of diced green peas and carrots, the middle layer contains chunks of golden brown fried chicken scattered evenly, and the top layer features long, thin white bean sprouts placed lightly over the rice. The bowl is white and round, placed on a black placemat with a white marbled textured background, with a glass of light yellow drink slightly visible behind it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra scallion greens or a handful of chopped cilantro on top for a vibrant color contrast and fresh herbal notes. Some toasted sesame seeds add a delightful extra crunch and nuttiness that complement the sesame oil already in the recipe.

Side Dishes

This Crispy Tofu Fried Rice Recipe pairs beautifully with light Asian sides like steamed dumplings, simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar, or a miso soup. These complement the fried rice without overpowering it, rounding out the meal for any occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive dinner, serve this fried rice in individual pineapple bowls to impress guests with presentation and flavor. Alternatively, wrap spoonfuls in large lettuce leaves for a fun and fresh hand-held option. Either way, it’s a showstopper!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Crispy Tofu Fried Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The tofu might lose some crispiness, but the flavors remain delicious and reheat beautifully.

Freezing

This fried rice freezes well in portioned containers. Freeze for up to two months. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing with fresh bean sprouts—add those fresh when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a hot skillet or wok to revive the fried rice’s texture. Add a splash of oil if needed and toss gently until heated throughout. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the rice from getting soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tofu for this recipe?

Firm or extra-firm tofu works best for this Crispy Tofu Fried Rice Recipe because it holds up well during cooking and crisps nicely. Silken or soft tofu would not give the same texture and may fall apart.

What if I don’t have nutritional yeast?

Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, savory hint but can be omitted if you don’t have it. You might add a little extra garlic powder or smoked paprika to boost flavor instead.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to keep the recipe gluten-free without sacrificing the bold umami flavors.

Is day-old rice necessary for fried rice?

Day-old rice is ideal because it’s drier and less sticky, helping to achieve that classic fried rice texture. If you don’t have leftovers, cool freshly cooked rice on a sheet pan before stir-frying to achieve a similar effect.

How can I make the tofu extra crispy without air frying?

If you don’t have an air fryer, pan-fry the tofu in oil over medium-high heat. Don’t disturb it too soon—let it brown and crisp on one side before carefully turning to crisp all sides evenly.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Crispy Tofu Fried Rice Recipe, it might just become your go-to comfort meal. The combination of crispy tofu, vibrant veggies, and perfectly flavored rice is truly irresistible. It’s delicious, nourishing, and fun to make, so go ahead and whip up a batch—you’ll be so glad you did!