A flavorful and nutritious Middle Eastern-inspired tofu rice bowl featuring spiced tofu, fragrant basmati rice, fresh vegetables, and a tangy tahini dressing.
1 cup basmati rice
2 cups water
1 tablespoon olive oil
14 ounces firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons water
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Remove the rice from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
While the rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until evenly coated.
Add the spiced tofu to the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides.
In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, minced garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed to reach a drizzling consistency.
In a large bowl, combine diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, parsley, and mint.
To assemble, divide the cooked rice among four bowls.
Top each bowl with the spiced tofu and the fresh vegetable mixture.
Drizzle the tahini dressing over each bowl before serving.