Whole30 Spicy Tofu

Elevate your plant-based meals with this irresistible Whole30 Spicy Tofu recipe, a perfect balance of crispy textures and bold, fiery flavors. Made with extra-firm tofu coated in arrowroot powder for a satisfying crunch, this dish is tossed in a tantalizing sauce of coconut aminos, fresh ginger, garlic, and a hint of red chili flakes for some heat. Cooked with avocado oil and garnished with fresh green onions, it's both Whole30-compliant and completely customizable with optional sesame oil and rice vinegar. Ready in just 35 minutes, this tofu dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice for a nourishing, gluten-free, and soy-lover-approved meal. If you’re searching for a healthy and spicy dinner idea, this protein-packed recipe is sure to deliver!

Nutriscore Rating: 83/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 ounces) extra-firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder
• 3 tablespoons avocado oil
• 3 tablespoons coconut aminos
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (compliant or omit for strict Whole30)
• 0.5 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 stalks green onions, sliced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, compliant version only)
• 2 tablespoons water

Directions

Step 1

Drain the tofu block thoroughly by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Place a heavy object (like a large pan or book) on top and press for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.

Step 2

Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes and gently toss in a bowl with the arrowroot powder until all sides are evenly coated. This will create a crispy texture when cooked.

Step 3

Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of avocado oil, followed by the minced ginger. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the coconut aminos, water, rice vinegar (if using), red chili flakes, garlic powder, and sesame oil (if using). Let this sauce simmer gently for 1-2 minutes.

Step 6

Return the crispy tofu to the skillet, tossing gently to coat all pieces with the spicy sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7

Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately as a standalone dish or alongside compliant roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(572.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1091.9

Total Fat 77.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 11.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 878.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 42.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.0g	0%
Total Sugars 12.2g
Protein 63.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 2746.3mg	0%
Iron 11.8mg	0%
Potassium 1060.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 62.0%

Protein: 22.6%

Carbs: 15.4%