Do I need to press the tofu?

If you're using super firm or high-protein tofu , pressing usually isn’t necessary . However, if you're using extra-firm tofu , pressing it for 15–30 minutes will help remove excess moisture and improve crispiness.

Can I air fry the tofu instead of baking?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes , shaking halfway through. It will come out extra crispy with less oil and less time.

How spicy are the tofu bowls?

They’re mildly spicy with a touch of heat from sriracha and chili powder. You can adjust the heat by using less sriracha or omitting the chili powder.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can make the tofu, salsa, and rice in advance. Store everything separately in airtight containers and assemble just before serving for the freshest texture.

What’s a good substitute for Old Bay seasoning?

If you don’t have Old Bay, use a mix of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of mustard powder —or just use your favorite all-purpose seasoning blend.

Spiced Tofu Bowl with Mango Salsa

Bowl of spiced tofu, cucumber salsa and rice with forks and a napkin.

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Crispy, spiced tofu pieces baked to perfection, served with a refreshing mango salsa made with cucumber and avocado.

Author: Lyndsey Hiltner
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 Servings 1x
Category: Bowls
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Tofu

1 lb super firm high protein tofu

1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari

1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon sriracha

1 teaspoon maple syrup

1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 tablespoon olive oil

juice of 1 lime

For the Salsa

1 avocado, diced

1 ripe mango, diced

1/2 cucumber, diced

1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

1 tablespoon agave nectar or honey

juice of 1 lime

1/2 teaspoon salt

For Serving

cooked rice

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Instructions

Prep: Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (218 C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
Marinate: Tear the block of tofu into pieces that are approximately 1 inch in size. Place them in a sealable container as you work. Pour the soy sauce/tamari, rice vinegar and sriracha over the tofu, cover the container and toss gently to coat each piece. Allow tofu to marinate for 10 minutes, tossing from time to time.
Bake: Add the maple syrup, spices, cornstarch and oil to the tofu and toss once more to coat. Spread the tofu out on the prepared baking sheet, making sure each piece has a fair amount of space around it. Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes, flip then bake for an additional 10. Drizzle tofu in lime juice once finished baking.
Salsa: Prepare the salsa while the tofu bakes. Add all of the ingredients to a small mixing bowl and stir gently to combine.
Serve: To serve, portion the cooked rice, tofu and avocado-mango salsa between bowls. Enjoy!