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Hi! I’m Kate, the face behind KateFi.com—a blog all about making life easier and more affordable.
Need something spicy, satisfying, and protein-packed without wrecking your wallet? Say hello to this Chili Garlic Tofu Bowl. It’s fast, flavorful, and fierce on a budget—the kind of meal that makes you feel like you just crushed adulthood (even if you’re still in your pajamas).
Fire in a Bowl
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Why You’ll Love It
- Ready in 20 minutes
- Plant-based + protein-rich
- Under $2 per serving
- Great for meal prep
- Punchy, bold flavors
Ingredients (Serves 2)
| Ingredient | Cost (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Firm tofu (1 block) | $1.75 | Pressed and cubed |
| Soy sauce (2 tbsp) | $0.10 | Or tamari for gluten-free |
| Chili garlic sauce (1 tbsp) | $0.25 | Add more for extra heat |
| Rice vinegar (1 tbsp) | $0.10 | Balances the heat |
| Sugar (1 tsp) | Negligible | Optional – rounds out flavor |
| Cornstarch (1 tbsp) | $0.05 | For that crispy crust |
| Rice (1 cup cooked) | $0.30 | White or brown |
| Green onion (1 stalk) | $0.15 | For garnish |
| Oil for frying | $0.10 | Any neutral oil works |
Total: ~$2.80 for 2 servings
Quick Instructions
1. Prep Tofu: Press tofu to remove excess water. Cut into cubes and toss with cornstarch.
2. Crisp It: Heat oil in pan. Fry tofu until golden and crispy on all sides.
3. Sauce It: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Pour over tofu and stir until coated.
4. Serve: Spoon over rice, top with green onions, and devour.
Pair It With
Keep it spicy with our Spicy Korean Ground Beef Bowls or go full plant-based with Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu.
Want something sweet after the heat? Try 5-Minute Microwave Mug Cake or Frozen Yogurt Bark.
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Spicy, Satisfying, and Smart
This bowl proves you don’t need meat or money to make something crave-worthy. It’s bold, it’s budget, and it’s ready to take center stage in your weekly meal plan.
Make it once. Dream about it twice.
