Savory Mushroom and Tofu Fried Rice
This flavorful fried rice dish combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the protein-packed goodness of baked tofu, all tossed together in a savory mix of tamari, brown sugar, and fresh chili heat. Perfect for using up leftover cooked brown rice, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that can be topped with crispy bamboo shoots and fresh cucumber for added crunch. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
peanut oil
2 tablespoons (none)
medium onion
1 (coarsely chopped)
Thai red chili peppers
2 (halved and seeds included)
tamari
2 tablespoons (none)
brown sugar
1 tablespoon (none)
ketchup
1 teaspoon (none)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
cooked brown rice
3 cups (refrigerated overnight)
mushrooms
1 1/2 cups (sliced)
baked tofu
6 ounces (thinly sliced)
green peas
1 cup (frozen)
bamboo shoots
to taste (optional, for garnish)
cucumber
to taste (sliced, for garnish)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Mushroom and Tofu Fried Rice?
It is a flavorful vegetarian dish combining earthy mushrooms, protein-packed baked tofu, and brown rice with a savory tamari-based sauce.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian and can be vegan if your sugar and ketchup sources are vegan-friendly.
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, you can substitute white rice, though brown rice provides a nuttier texture and more fiber.
Why should I use refrigerated overnight rice?
Refrigerated rice is drier than fresh rice, which prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy or clumping together during cooking.
What type of tofu is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for baked tofu, which has a firm, chewy texture that holds up well in stir-fries.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a moderate level of heat because it includes two Thai red chili peppers with their seeds.
How can I make the dish less spicy?
To reduce the heat, you can remove the seeds from the Thai red chili peppers or use only one pepper.
What can I use instead of tamari?
You can use regular soy sauce as a substitute, although tamari is typically used for a gluten-free option.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Since it uses tamari instead of soy sauce, it is naturally gluten-free, provided your ketchup and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What kind of mushrooms should I use?
You can use any variety of mushrooms, such as button, cremini, or shiitake, depending on your preference.
What is the purpose of adding brown sugar?
Brown sugar balances the saltiness of the tamari and adds a slight caramelized depth to the sauce.
Why is ketchup included in a fried rice recipe?
Ketchup adds a subtle tanginess and extra umami that complements the savory flavors of the tofu and mushrooms.
Can I substitute peanut oil?
Yes, you can use any neutral high-heat oil like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil.
Are bamboo shoots necessary?
Bamboo shoots are optional and used as a garnish to provide a crispy texture.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas work perfectly, though frozen peas are convenient and cook very quickly in the pan.
How should I prepare the onion?
The onion should be coarsely chopped to provide noticeable texture in the finished dish.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, this dish holds up well and can be portioned out for healthy lunches throughout the week.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this fried rice?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked fried rice in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to one month.
What garnishes are recommended?
Freshly sliced cucumber and crispy bamboo shoots are recommended for a refreshing crunch.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 13 ingredients in total, including the optional garnishes.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely; carrots, bell peppers, or bok choy would make excellent additions to this stir-fry.
How do I reheat the fried rice?
Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water, or in the microwave until heated through.
What makes this dish healthy?
It uses brown rice for whole grains, tofu for plant-based protein, and plenty of vegetables like mushrooms and peas.
Can I use a different type of protein?
While this recipe focus on tofu, you could substitute it with tempeh or edamame if preferred.
Is the salt amount adjustable?
Yes, the recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon but notes you should season to taste.
How do I slice the tofu?
The recipe recommends slicing the baked tofu thinly so it distributes evenly throughout the rice.
What flavor profile does this dish have?
It features a savory, umami-rich profile with a hint of sweetness and a spicy kick.
Do I need a wok to make this?
A wok is ideal for high-heat stir-frying, but a large non-stick skillet will also work well.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
While not explicitly listed, minced garlic would be a great addition to sauté along with the onions and chilies.