Easy and Delicious Vegan Tofu Scramble Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 block (14 ounces) of firm tofu
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup of nutritional yeast
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black salt (Kala Namak) - optional for eggy flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup of chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or cilantro)

Steps and instructions

  1. First, drain the tofu and pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. Using your hands, crumble the tofu into a bowl. Set aside.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  4. Add the onion and bell pepper to the pan. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
  5. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another minute.
  6. Add the crumbled tofu to the pan. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
  7. Next, add the nutritional yeast, turmeric, and paprika to the pan. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
  8. If using, add the black salt. Also add regular salt and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
  9. Reduce the heat to low and let the tofu scramble cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.
  10. Right before serving, stir in the chopped fresh herbs.
  11. Remove from heat and serve the tofu scramble hot. It can be enjoyed on its own, or as a filling for a breakfast burrito or toast.

Tools for making

  • Cutting board - Used for chopping and preparing vegetables
  • Knife - Essential for cutting and mincing ingredients
  • Large pan - Used for sautéing the vegetables and cooking the tofu scramble
  • Spatula - Helps in stirring and flipping the ingredients in the pan
  • Bowl - Used for crumbling the tofu and mixing the spices
  • Paper towels - Used to pat dry the tofu before crumbling

Recipe variations

  • Add your favorite vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes to the tofu scramble for added flavor and nutrients.
  • Experiment with different spices and seasonings like cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika to customize the flavor profile.
  • Add plant-based protein sources like chickpeas, black beans, or tempeh to make the scramble heartier.
  • Serve the tofu scramble over a bed of cooked quinoa or brown rice for a nutritious grain bowl.
  • For a cheesy twist, melt some vegan cheese on top of the scramble during the last few minutes of cooking.
  • Include chopped vegan sausage or vegan bacon for a meaty texture and smoky flavor.
  • For a spicy kick, add a diced jalapeno or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the scramble.
  • Garnish the tofu scramble with avocado slices, salsa, or hot sauce for extra flavor and freshness.
  • Try using silken tofu instead of firm tofu for a smoother and creamier texture.
  • Make a Mediterranean version by adding olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano.

Recipe overview

Are you craving a hearty but healthy breakfast? Look no further than this delightful Tofu Scramble! It's a vegan dish that's packed with protein and full of flavor, making it the perfect breakfast or brunch option. This recipe replaces traditional scrambled egg with tofu, which is crumbled and then cooked with a colorful mixture of veggies and spices. Nutritional yeast, turmeric, and paprika add a savory depth, while optional black salt gives an "eggy" flavor. Fresh herbs stirred in at the end provide a refreshing finish. Serve this tofu scramble on its own, or use it as a filling for a breakfast burrito or toast. Whether you're vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply looking to try something new, this Tofu Scramble is sure to brighten your morning!

Common questions

  1. Can I use silken tofu instead of firm tofu?
    Yes, you can use silken tofu, but keep in mind that the texture will be softer and the scramble may not hold its shape as well.
  2. Can I substitute nutritional yeast with anything else?
    If you don't have nutritional yeast, you can use grated Parmesan cheese or dairy-free cheese alternatives for a similar savory flavor.
  3. What can I use instead of olive oil?
    You can use vegetable oil, coconut oil, or any other cooking oil of your choice.
  4. Is black salt necessary?
    Black salt, also known as Kala Namak, adds an eggy flavor to the scramble. If you don't have it, the dish will still be delicious without it.
  5. Can I add other vegetables?
    Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like such as spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, or zucchini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    While the tofu scramble is best enjoyed fresh, you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large frying pan - A large frying pan is ideal for cooking the tofu scramble, allowing enough space to sauté the vegetables and scramble the tofu.
  • Spatula - A spatula is essential for stirring and flipping the tofu scramble while it cooks.
  • Knife - A knife will be needed to chop the onion, bell pepper, garlic, and fresh herbs.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board provides a flat and stable surface for safely chopping the vegetables and herbs.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are useful for precise measurements of spices and seasonings.
  • Paper towels - Paper towels are needed to pat dry the tofu before crumbling it.

Origin stories

Tofu scramble, a popular vegan breakfast dish, is often touted as an alternative to scrambled eggs. While it might seem like a modern invention, it actually has deep roots in Asian cuisine, where tofu has been a staple for thousands of years. It's interesting to note that silken tofu, served warm and resembling a custard-like scramble, has been enjoyed in China during breakfast for centuries, hinting at the origins of the 'tofu scramble' concept. The seasoning and scrambling approach, infused with Western culinary influences, is a relatively recent innovation, highlighting the versatility of tofu across cultures and cuisines.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.