Best Vegan Tofu Recipes (Easy, Delicious + Crispy)

Vegan tofu recipes have become a cornerstone of modern plant-based cuisine, offering a delicious and versatile option for those looking to incorporate more sustainable and cruelty-free choices into their diets.

In this article, we're here to take you on a culinary journey through a collection of delectable vegan tofu recipes that showcase tofu's incredible versatility and delicious potential. From savory to sweet, we'll explore a range of dishes that will help you rethink how tofu can be the star of your next meal. So, whether you're a seasoned vegan or a curious food enthusiast, join us in discovering the endless possibilities of tofu-based creations.

Collage of vegan tofu recipes with a title in the middle.

Jump to:

🤔 But first, what is tofu?
🥡 Stir Fries
🍛 Curry with tofu recipes
🥗 Light Bites
🍜 Hearty Mains
🍰 Desserts
💭 FAQs
🌟 Summary
💬 Comments

🤔 But first, what is tofu?

Tofu, also known as bean curd, is a protein-rich, soy-based food product that has gained widespread popularity for its adaptability in a wide array of plant-based meals. This unassuming, neutral-flavored ingredient has the unique ability to absorb the flavors of the dishes it's prepared with, making it a staple in vegan and vegetarian cuisine. Tofu can sometimes get a bad rap, but this list is here to prove that to be entirely wrong. Plus they're all super easy to make, are a great source of protein and so delicious!

🥡 Stir Fries

1. Braised Gochujang Tofu

Braised gochujang tofu on a bed of rice on a plate.

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5 from 6 votes

Ready in: 15

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Gochujang Tofu is a Korean-inspired stir fry that brings the umami-rich depth of gochujang sauce to the world of tofu. This recipe combines the nutty, slightly sweet notes of gochujang with tofu, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that is both spicy and satisfying. If not using extra-firm tofu, it's always a good idea to use a tofu press to remove excess water from firm tofu, for best results.

2. Sticky Tofu (Szechuan tofu)

Sticky tofu with brown rice and fresh chilli in a bowl.

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5 from 3 votes

Ready in: 20

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Sticky Tofu, also known as Szechuan Tofu, is a mouthwatering fusion of flavors, featuring crispy tofu cubes coated in a tantalizing sweet and spicy glaze. This dish boasts a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and crispy texture, making it one a popular stir fry among those who crave an exciting twist on tofu.

3. Vegan Tofu Chop Suey

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5 from 2 votes

Ready in: 15

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Tofu Chop Suey is a delightful and nutritious vegan stir fry that features cubed tofu cooked to a perfect crispness and paired with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables. This classic Chinese-American dish is known for its savory, slightly tangy sauce that beautifully complements the tender tofu and vibrant, crisp vegetables, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a flavorful, plant-based meal.

4. Tofu Pad Thai

Easy vegan pad Thai on a plate with chopsticks above, ready to eat

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5 from 3 votes

Ready in: 30

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Tofu Pad Thai stir fry is a Thai street food classic, featuring stir-fried tofu with rice noodles, peanuts, and a sweet and tangy tamarind-based sauce. It's a crowd-pleaser that perfectly balances the flavors of sweet, sour, savory and spicy. Use extra firm tofu for best results.

5. Thai Basil Tofu Stir Fry

Square image of Thai Basil Tofu in a bowl with spoons in front of it

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4.84 from 6 votes

Ready in: 15

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

This is one of Dan's favorite vegan tofu recipes - ready in just 15 minutes, it's packed with protein as well as packing a chili punch! As far as tofu recipes go, this is one of the easiest.

6. Sweet and Sour Tofu

Sweet and sour tofu served with fried rice in a bowl.

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5 from 1 vote

Ready in: 30

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Sweet and Sour Tofu stir fry is a delightful fusion of flavors, featuring crispy tofu chunks coated in a tangy, sweet sauce. This dish offers a harmonious balance of sweet and sour elements that tantalize the taste buds.

7. Vegan Egg Fried Rice

Vegan egg fried rice in a bowl topped with chilli flakes. Soy sauce and chilli flakes in the background.

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5 from 2 votes

Ready in: 20

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Vegan tofu recipes don't get much easier than this! Vegan Egg Fried Rice stir fry reimagines the classic fried rice with tofu-based "egg" pieces. This dish is a delightful medley of flavors and textures, offering a cruelty-free twist on a popular Asian comfort food.

8. Thai Cashew Stir Fry

Thai Cashew Stir-fry on a white plate with cutlery balanced on it.

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5 from 3 votes

Ready in: 20

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Vegan tofu recipes are generally so easy to make, and this one proves it. This delightful Thai tofu stir fry is packed with flavor yet is ready in under 15 minutes. With a simple stir fry sauce featuring soy sauce, cashews and fiery chilies, it will impress.

9. Vegan Garlic Teriyaki Tofu

Teriyaki tofu with broccoli and rice, chopsticks balanced on the bowl.

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Ready in: 45 minutes

Recipe by: A Plantiful Path

No boring tofu here! This Teriyaki Tofu stir fry is made with baked tofu, and it features tofu smothered in sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, and served with veggies and rice. This dish is high in protein, low in fat, and perfect for a quick and easy meal. Plus, it's oil free!

10. Vegan Mongolian Beef

Mongolian tofu served on a bed of rice, topped with sesame seeds and spring onions.

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Ready in: 25 minutes

Recipe by: Daily Dish

If you're looking for the vegan answer to Mongolian beef, you've got to try this Mongolian tofu recipe. This crispy tofu stir fry is tossed in a sweet and spicy glaze for an easy and unique vegan dinner. Ready in under 30 minutes!

11. Salt and Pepper Tofu

Salt and pepper tofu on a plate with chop sticks.

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Ready in: 20 minutes

Recipe by: Six Hungry Feet

Chinese Takeout Salt and Pepper Tofu is a super popular tofu stir fry takeout order, but why not learn to make it at home instead? It's even better than ordering in!

12. Sesame Tofu

Sesame tofu on a bed of white rice with spring onions and slices of lime.

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Ready in: 45 minutes

Recipe by: Broke Bank Vegan

This sesame tofu stir fry is crispy, chewy, and saucy! It’s baked until golden-brown perfection and tossed in a sticky marinade featuring sesame oil, ginger, and lime. Top with sesame seeds for extra crunch and deliciousness.

13. Vegan Mapo Tofu

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Ready in: 30 minutes

Recipe by: Cook with Manali

This vegan take on the popular Sichuan dish, Mapo Tofu. It's an incredibly tasty spicy tofu recipe, that also has a numbing edge from the Sichuan peppercorns. With fermented bean paste, a handful of other flavorful ingredients like chili oil, soy sauce and gochujang. A protein-rich meal with silken tofu that will impress!

🍛 Curry with tofu recipes

14. Creamy Tofu Korma

Tofu korma topped with fresh coriander, almonds and fried onions.

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5 from 4 votes

Ready in: 1 10

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Tofu Korma is a delectable Indian-inspired dish where tofu takes center stage in a creamy, aromatic curry sauce. The tofu absorbs the rich, fragrant spices and coconut cream, creating a sumptuous and satisfying meal that's a delightful take on a traditional korma recipe. Serve with brown rice and naan bread for the full experience.

15. Vegan Butter Chicken

square image of vegan butter chicken in a bowl with two other bowls above it

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5 from 6 votes

Ready in: 30

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Vegan Butter Chicken is a plant-based take on the beloved classic, featuring tender tofu pieces in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. It offers all the comforting flavors of the original dish, with a cruelty-free twist. Vegan tofu recipes don't get much better than this.

16. Palak Paneer (with tofu paneer)

Vegan palak paneer in a bowl on a blue background

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5 from 3 votes

Ready in: 30

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Palak Paneer with tofu paneer is a green, flavorful Indian dish that swaps traditional paneer cheese for tofu. The creamy spinach curry and tofu combination provides a nourishing and satisfying meal for those seeking a vegan version of this North Indian favorite.

17. Tofu Chinese Curry

Vegan Chinese curry in a blue bowl being held by a pair of hands.

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4.88 from 8 votes

Ready in: 30

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Tofu Chinese Curry is a comforting and aromatic dish that combines tofu with a fragrant Chinese-style curry sauce. And one of the first vegan tofu recipes that we published on this blog! This delightful fusion of flavors provides a unique twist on traditional Chinese cuisine.

18. Massaman Curry with tofu

Vegetable Massaman Curry in a blue seckled bowl. Potatoes, tofu, chillies, peppers and peanuts are visible

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5 from 10 votes

Ready in: 30

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Massaman Curry with tofu is a Thai specialty known for its complex flavors, featuring tofu in a rich, aromatic coconut-based curry with a hint of peanut and spices. It's a savory and satisfying dish that's a must-try for curry enthusiasts.

19. Tofu Thai Green Curry

Cauliflower, broccoli and carrots in a Thai green curry with tofu.

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5 from 3 votes

Ready in: 25

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Tofu Thai Green Curry is a vibrant and herbaceous dish that combines tofu with an aromatic green curry sauce. It offers a burst of fresh flavors and a mild heat, perfect for those who enjoy Thai cuisine.

20. Vegan Curry with Tofu

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Ready in: 40 minutes

Recipe by: Rainbow Plant Life

This Vegan Curry with Tofu brings gourmet Indian flavors to your dinner table in under 45 minutes! A creamy plant-based curry with warming Indian spices, nutrient-dense cauliflower and spinach, and protein-packed tofu, it's the perfect harmony of indulgent and wholesome.

21. Tofu Tikka Masala

Tofu tikka masala in a bowl with rice, and a spoon sat in the bowl.

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Ready in: 1 hour

Recipe by: Cookilicious.

Tofu Tikka Masala is a vegan spin on Chicken Tikka Masala. It's a delicious Indian curry made with marinated and fried tofu that's cooked in a delicious masala paste along with aromatic spices and flavors. This flavorful curry can be served with bread or rice.

🥗 Light Bites

22. “Egg” Salad Sandwich

Vegan egg mayo sandwich cut in half, stood up

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5 from 13 votes

Ready in: 10

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

This is another of my favorite delicious vegan tofu recipes, an egg salad (or egg mayo) sandwich without the egg! Firm tofu and silken tofu make the most delicious vegan egg substitute when combined with just a couple of other ingredients including kala nemak and vegan mayo. No cooking required - yep, this recipe uses raw tofu. And it's ready in under 5 minutes!

23. Vegan Tofu Nuggets

Cornflake coated vegan chicken nuggets piled onto a plate with tomato ketchup.

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5 from 1 vote

Ready in: 22

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Air fryer or baked tofu nuggets are totally amazing, quick and easy to make. Crispy tofu doesn't get much better than this and it's great when dipped in your favorite dipping sauce. It really is an easy tofu recipe that's ready in under 15 minutes, it's the cornflake crispy coating that makes them so more-ish!

24. The Best Vegan Tofu Scramble

Soft tofu scramble on two halves of toast on a p;ate

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5 from 3 votes

Ready in: 10

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

This easy vegan tofu scramble is like a 101 of vegan tofu recipes, and is a must for tofu lovers everywhere. Utilising both firm tofu and silken tofu, this breakfast is packed with protein and only takes 5 minutes to make.

25. Vegan Pork Belly Tofu

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Ready in: 2 hours 55 minutes

Recipe by: Romy London UK

As far as tofu dishes go, this might be one of the most creative! It features tofu cubes as a vegan spin on traditional pork belly. The firm tofu is marinated in a hoisin sauce, soy sauce and Chinese five-spice powder savoury mix, and then pan-fried until golden brown.

26. Tofu Skewers

Tofu satay skewers on a plate topped with peanut sauce, spring onions and slices of lime.

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Ready in: 55 minutes

Recipe by: Debra Klein

These tofu skewers are easy to make and is such a delicious dish. Dip them in peanut sauce for the ultimate vegan appetizer, or drizzle it on and serve it as your main dish.

27. Easy Tofu Salad

Tofu salad in a glass bowl with a creamy dressing on top.

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Ready in: 20 minutes

Recipe by: The Stingy Vegan

This tofu salad recipe features barbecue crispy tofu, vegan ranch dressing and a rainbow of vegetables. It's a quick salad that's ready in less than 30 minutes!

28. Tofu Pesto Sandwich

Tofu pesto sandwich with slices of tomato on the side.

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Ready in: 30 minutes

Recipe by: Veggie Inspired

Herbaceous pesto and savory tofu come together with fresh veggies and toasted bread to create the most delicious texture and flavor combo. This sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch.

29. Crispy Tofu Salad

Crispy tofu salad in a bowl with fresh peppers and dressing.

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Ready in: 35 minutes

Recipe by: Kiip Fit

This air fryer recipe features marinated crispy tofu cooked to crunchy perfection in an air fryer and tossed in with greens and veggies, and then drizzled with homemade dressing.

30. Crunchy Asian Tofu Salad

Asian tofu salad in a bowl with spinach.

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Ready in: 20 minutes

Recipe by: Hurry the Food Up

Crisp radishes, sweet pineapple, and crunchy tofu come together in this light and flavorful Asian Tofu Salad. A delicious combination of sweet, salty and spicy!

31. Vegan Feta Cheese Dip

Vegan tofu feta dip topped with roasted peppers.

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Ready in: 10 minutes

Recipe by: The Vegan Larder

Did you know you can whip tofu up into an addictive tofu vegan feta cheese style dip? Topped with roasted peppers or tomatoes, it makes a great alternative to hummus, and is perfect for sharing.

32. Tofu Vegetable Soup

Tofu vegetable soup in a bowl with noodles.

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Ready in: 30 minutes

Recipe by: My Plantiful Cooking

This tofu vegetable soup is warm, hearty, and incredibly comforting to have! Serve it with a side of rice for a simple yet satisfying meal.

33. Smoked Tofu

Pieces of smoked tofu on a plate topped with spring onions.

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Ready in: 35 minutes (plus marinating time)

Recipe by: Profusion Curry

Smoked Tofu is super easy to make at home. It's full of umami flavors. And, if you freeze tofu and then thaw it out, it will turn out super meaty once cooked!

34. Grilled Tofu

Grilled tofu on a bed of rice and served with broccoli.

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Ready in: 45 minutes

Recipe by: Vegan Huggs

This is an amazing vegan tofu recipe, that utilises the incredible flavor combination of ginger and sesame. It creates an absolutely delicious dish that proves vegan cooking isn't difficult!

🍜 Hearty Mains

35. Tofu Quinoa Bowl

Tofu quinoa bowl served with fresh coriander, salsa and avocado.

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5 from 1 vote

Ready in: 30

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

This yummy bowl makes for an easy weeknight dinner. This baked tofu recipe is great for meal prep, features a Mexican inspired quinoa and is one of the best vegan recipes for packing in the protein.

36. Tofu Mince Sloppy Joes

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5 from 2 votes

Ready in: 50

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Tofu Mince Sloppy Joes offer a creative twist on a classic comfort food. This vegan rendition combines crumbled tofu cooked with a savory, tomato-based sauce, resulting in a hearty and flavorful filling for your favorite buns. It's a plant-based delight that's both nostalgic and delicious.

37. Tan Tan Ramen (Noodle soup)

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5 from 2 votes

Ready in: 30

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Tan Tan Ramen is a Japanese dish that features a flavorful, spicy broth, topped with tofu and garnished with various condiments. This dish offers a hearty and spicy vegan twist on traditional ramen.

38. Khao Soi Noodle Soup

A bowl of vegan khao soi. It's filled with noodles, sweet potato, greens and tofu.

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5 from 4 votes

Ready in: 30

Recipe by: Jess & Dan

Khao Soi Noodle Soup is a Northern Thai specialty known for its rich, coconut-based broth and features tender tofu. It's a flavorful and aromatic spicy vegan noodle soup that captures the essence of Northern Thai cuisine.

39. Tofish and Chips

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Ready in: 15 minutes

Recipe by: Tinned Tomatoes

Bite through the crunchy spiced batter to some hearty vegan tofu. For that traditional British chippy finish, serve with thick cut chips and curry sauce (or maybe you'd prefer mushy peas?).

40. Vegan Turkey

A plate of vegan turkey, mashed potato and beetroot served with gravy.

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Ready in: ~ 3 hours

Recipe by: Vegan Dollhouse

This vegan turkey is not only impressive as a Sunday roast of festive main, it's also organic and gluten free. It’s a delicious tofu dish that's great for the holidays.

41. Tofu Ground Beef

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Ready in: 30 minutes

Recipe by: Wholesome Soulfood Kitchen

Satisfy your cravings for a meaty texture without sacrificing your plant-based diet with this Tofu Ground Beef recipe. Made from protein-packed vegan tofu crumbles, it's super versatile and can be used as a nutritious meat alternative in all your favorite dishes, from chili to pasta. Plus, it makes for a perfect vegan taco meat.

🍰 Desserts

42. Chocolate Pudding

Vegan chocolate mousses with fresh raspberries in ramekins.

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Ready in: 1 hour 5 minutes

Recipe by: The Scatty Mum

This Silken Tofu Chocolate & Raspberry Mousse is rich and deliciously creamy. Using just 4 simple ingredients, including soft or silken tofu (which is great for desserts) it’s super easy to make and is packed with flavor.

43. Vegan Tiramisu

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Ready in: 4 hours 30 minutes

Recipe by: Rainbow Nourishments

Easy vegan tiramisu using only 5 key ingredients, no cashews, no vegan cream cheese or added coconut oil! It takes only 20 minutes to prepare and is as creamy and delicious as the classic Italian dessert!

💭 FAQs

Can you eat tofu raw?

The short answer is yes! You can eat firm tofu or soft tofu raw. It works especially well raw in things like vegan egg mayo, or sweet treats like chocolate mousse or pudding.

What can I do with a block of tofu?

There are so many different ways to cook and eat tofu! And you don't have to follow a vegan diet to enjoy it! Vegan tofu recipes can be curries, stir fries or stews to name just a few, you can serve pan fried tofu or even bake it in a sheet pan. It goes with a variety of sauces and flavors - just check this list for lots of inspiration.

How to cook tofu for beginners?

First of all, it's important to know if you need silken tofu, firm or extra firm tofu. Silken is best for desserts and creamy sauces, firm tofu needs to be pressed before cooking, either between paper towels with something heavy on top or in a tofu press, and extra firm tofu can be cooked straight away. Firm or extra-firm is great in curries, stir-fries and even tray bakes.

🌟 Summary

This is the greatest collection of delicious tofu recipes, featuring something for everyone. Even though tofu recipes get a bad reputation sometimes, the key is using the correct type tofu and following the easy techniques in each recipe, to get the best result. But, have we missed anything? What are your favorite vegan tofu recipes? Let us know in the comments!