Vegan tofu poke bowls have become a popular dish among health-conscious individuals; as a vegan option, they align with ethical eating practices and environmental sustainability, important to many people. These bowls are often packed with a variety of nutrient–fresh vegetables that offer vitamins, minerals, as well as fiber, tofu that is a good source of protein, also carbohydrates that can be absorbed from rice or other grains, and in addition to these are healthy fats commonly found in avocado or seeds. These are all essential, particularly for those on a plant-based diet. Additionally, these bowls can be low in calories while being filling, an encouraging benefit to those looking to manage their weight. In fact, while being healthy and lite, they surprisingly do not compromise on taste. The variety of textures and flavors can make a tofu poke bowl a satisfying meal that doesn’t feel like the typical “diet” food. Moreover, poke bowls are relatively easy to assemble, and many ingredients can be prepped in advance, making them a convenient option for a quick and healthy meal. If you are looking for a trendy bowl meal, that is easy to assemble, enjoyable, and good for you, homemade vegan tofu poke bowls are a perfect match!
WHAT INGREDIENTS ARE BEST FOR A TOFU POKE BOWL
Poke bowls can be highly customized with a wide range of toppings and sauces to meet individual dietary needs, preferences, and nutritional goals, including gluten-free, nut-free, or specific macro requirements. Plus, experimenting with different combinations keeps the meal exciting and fresh each time you enjoy it. Many alternatives can be selected to put together your ideal healthy bowl every step of the way! A variety of grains can be used as a foundation (brown rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or sushi rice); proteins from tofu, edamame, or chickpeas; fresh, crunchy, or pickled vegetables; numerous dressings and sauces like classic, spicy, sweet, citrusy; endless toppings like seaweed, nuts, seeds, herbs, or fermented (kimchi or sauerkraut), and even ‘finishers’ such as fruits (pomegranate) and dollops (humus). By mixing and matching these ingredients, you can create an almost infinite variety of vegan poke bowls, each with its own unique set of flavors and nutritional benefits. This time, we chose this recipe.
BEST WINE TO PAIR WITH A TOFU POKE BOWL – FINO JARANA
Lustau Fino Jarana. The combination of a vegan tofu poke bowl with fino sherry offers a balanced and satisfying culinary experience, where the lightness and complexity of the wine complement the fresh and diverse flavors and textures of the poke bowl. The wine’s profile can cut through the creaminess of the avocado and the richness of the tofu, cleansing the palate between bites. The tanginess of pickled red onions can be echoed in the sherry’s sharp mouthfeel, and the crispness of the cucumber pairs well with the light and zesty character of the wine, the combination offers great contrasting textures. Additionally, the umami from the tofu and the soy sauce, plus the salty and herbaceous notes of edamame, go exceptionally well with the savory qualities of fino sherry.
Bonus: Sherry has been noted for its digestive properties, making it a suitable drink to enjoy with a meal, aiding digestion, especially when the meal includes fiber-rich components like those in a vegan poke bowl.
TOFU POKE BOWL INGREDIENTS LIST
TOFU POKE
• 1 block extra firm tofu
• ⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons chili paste I used sambal oelek
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
BOWL
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 small diced cucumber
• ½ cup pickled red onion
• 1 cup cooked & shelled edamame
• 1 avocado
• 3 green onions
Instructions
1 Remove the tofu from the package and drain off the liquid.
2 Cut into roughly 1-inch cubes.
3 In a large, shallow bowl, whisk together all of the marinade ingredients.
4 Add in the tofu and toss to coat.
5 Let marinate for 20-30 minutes.
6 Meanwhile, prep the rest of the bowls.
7 Start with a base of rice, then add on top the cucumber, pickled red onion, edamame, avocado, and scallions.
8 When the tofu is done marinating, add on top of the bowls. Save the rest of the marinade and drizzle on top.
9 Sprinkle with sesame seeds & enjoy!
FAQ
Why is Fino Jarana the best wine to pair with tofu?
The combination of a vegan tofu poke bowl with fino sherry offers a balanced and satisfying culinary experience, where the lightness and complexity of the wine complement the fresh and diverse flavors and textures of the poke bowl.
