Best Tofu Scramble Recipe (2024)

Home » Recipes » Breakfast » The Best Tofu Scramble Recipe

posted: 07/27/23 — updated: 10/11/23 by Deryn Macey Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links.

Jump to Recipe·★★★★★5 from 1 review

The best tofu scramble recipe for a quick and healthy vegan breakfast alternative to traditional scrambled eggs.

Best Tofu Scramble Recipe (1)

Table of Contents

About the Recipe

This tofu scramble recipe is bursting with flavours, packed with protein and has the perfect fluffy, creamy, scrambled egg-like texture.

It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with a variety of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices, so you can customize it to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

The best part? After you press the tofu, tofu scramble requires minimal prep and cooking time.

If you’re feeling stuck with plant-based breakfasts, tofu scramble is a great way to venture into savoury options and it makes a great base for a healthy and nourishing start to the day.

If you enjoy this scramble, you’ll have to try this Vegan Savory Oatmeal, Vegan Breakfast Burrito Bowl, or Vegan Breakfast Casserole next!

Recipe At a Glance

  • Vegan.
  • Gluten-free.
  • Easy to make.
  • Plant-based scrambled egg substitute.
  • High-protein vegan breakfast.
  • Easy to customize.
  • Lots of ways to serve.
  • Can be made in advance.

Ingredients

Please see the recipe card at the end of the post for the complete list of ingredients with measurements.

Best Tofu Scramble Recipe (2)
  • Tofu: You can use medium-firm, firm or extra-firm tofu, depending on the texture you want your scramble. I like firm tofu for this recipe.
  • Seasoning: Suggested seasonings are onion powder, garlic powder and turmeric for colour.
  • Tahini: Adds some creaminess to help mock the texture scrambled egg.
  • Kala Namak: Known as black salt, this adds an “eggy” texture.
  • Nutritional Yeast: Adds colour and flavour.
  • Milk: Unsweetened oat milk or almond milk work.
  • Oil: Any oil works for cooking. I used olive oil. You can use cooking spray if you prefer.

Additions

  • Vegan Sausage or Bacon: Slice or crumble your favourite vegan sausage or plant-based bacon and brown in the pan before adding the tofu.
  • Roast Vegetables: Roast vegetables like sweet potatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms and fold them into the scramble for a hearty and nutritious twist.
  • Greens: Add chopped kale, Swiss chard, baby spinach or arugula when the scramble is nearly done.
  • Herbs: Add fresh chopped parsley, basil, dill, chives or scallions to the sauce.
  • Vegetables: You can add any veggies to a tofu scramble. Try bell pepper, zucchini, onion, mushroom or anything else you’d enjoy with scrambled eggs. Cook them in the pan for a few minutes before adding the tofu. If you’re adding greens, add those at the end.
  • Heat: For spicy tofu scramble, add up to 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the sauce. You can also make it as it and serve with your favourite hot sauce.

Variations

  • Mexican Tofu Scramble: Saute bell peppers and onions before adding the tofu. Add tofu. Add some paprika and chili powder to the sauce. Add black beans when you add the sauce. Serve with salsa, avocado and cilantro.
  • Mediterranean Tofu Scramble: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives and spinach whne you add the sauce. Add a pinch of oregano, basil and lemon to the sauce. Serve with feta.
  • Cheesy Tofu Scramble: Add 1/4 cup shredded cheese with the sauce.
  • Pesto Tofu Scramble: Mix in pesto, cherry tomatoes and spinach when it’s nearly done.
  • Buffalo Tofu Scramble: Add buffalo sauce and thinly sliced scallions to the sauce. Serve with avocado.

How to Make Tofu Scramble

Best Tofu Scramble Recipe (3)

Step 1: Press tofu. Use a tofu press or wrap the block of tofu in a dish towel and place a heavy object such as a cast iron pan or some cookbooks on top of it. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.

Best Tofu Scramble Recipe (4)

Step 2: Mix Sauce. While the tofu is pressing, mix the sauce ingredients together in a bowl or glass measuring up until smooth. Alternatively, you could add to a sealable mason jar and shake to combine.

Best Tofu Scramble Recipe (5)

Step 3: Cook tofu. Crumble the tofu into bite-sized pieces. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add the tofu crumbles and cook for 4-6 minutes.

Best Tofu Scramble Recipe (6)

Step 4: Add Sauce. Add the sauce and cook over medium heat until the tofu absorbs most of it.

Best Tofu Scramble Recipe (7)

Serving Ideas

  1. Breakfast Burrito: Fill a tortilla with tofu scramble, avocado slices, salsa, and black beans. Roll it up for a hearty and satisfying breakfast on the go.
  2. Tofu Scramble Bowl: Create a nourishing bowl by layering the tofu scramble with greens, roasted potatoes, black beans, etc.
  3. Tofu Scramble Sandwich: Pile the tofu scramble onto whole-grain bread or a bagel, add some fresh lettuce and tomato slices, and create a tasty breakfast or lunch sandwich.
  4. Tofu Scramble Tacos: Fill soft corn tortillas with tofu scramble, chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for a delightful taco experience.
  5. Fried Rice: Mix into your favourite fried rice.
  6. Tofu Scramble Breakfast Hash: Combine tofu scramble with diced potatoes, bell peppers, and onions, then cook until crispy for a flavorful breakfast hash.
  7. Tofu Scramble Salad: Add tofu scramble to a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado for a protein-packed salad.
  8. Breakfast Plate: Serve with plant-based sausage, toast, avocado and other breakfast favourites for a hearty and complete meal.
  9. Avocado Toast: Add tofu scramble to avocado toast for extra protein and nutrition.

Recipe FAQs

What kind of tofu to use for tofu scramble?

For tofu scramble, you generally want to use firm or extra-firm tofu. These types of tofu have a higher protein content and a denser texture, making them ideal for scrambling and holding their shape during cooking.

That being said, I prefer medium-firm tofu for scrambles for a softer, creamier texture. I suggest medium-firm if you can find it, if not, then firm tofu.

It’s somewhat personal preference. Medium-firm has a soft, creamy texture but doesn’t hold up as well. Firm and extra-firm tofu are denser and holds its shape well, especially if mixing in additional ingredients.

Is tofu scramble vegan?

Yes, tofu scramble is a popular vegan alternative to scrambled eggs. It is made entirely from plant-based ingredients.

Tofu scramble is also naturally gluten-free. However, if you’re adding anything to this recipe, be sure to read the packaging to confirm it’s gluten-free.

How do I get a good texture for my tofu scramble?

To achieve a good texture for your tofu scramble, press out excess water before cooking. You can do this by using a tofu press or wrapping the tofu in paper towels and placing a weight on top.

Additionally, avoid overcooking the tofu, as it can become too dry and rubbery. Cook the tofu just until it’s heated through and lightly browned.

Can I freeze tofu scramble?

Tofu scramble can be frozen, but its texture will change upon thawing. I would suggest just storing it in the fridge and reheating as needed. It will keep for up to 5 days in the fridge in an airtight container.

What are some alternatives to tofu for scrambling?

If you’re looking for non-tofu alternatives, you can try using crumbled tempeh or chickpeas.

Best Tofu Scramble Recipe (8)

Storing & Reheating

  • Tofu scramble can be stored in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
  • Reheat in a skillet or in the microwave until heated through.

What to Make Next

  • Vegan Breakfast Casserole
  • Vegan Breakfast Burritos
  • Sweet Potato Breakfast Bowls
  • Savory Vegan Breakfast Bowl
  • Tempeh Bacon Breakfast Bowls

Did you try this recipe? I’d love to hear about it! Scroll down to the comment section to leave a star rating and review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Print

Best Tofu Scramble Recipe (9)

Tofu Scramble

★★★★★5 from 1 review

  • Author: Deryn Macey
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2-3
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan
Print Recipe

Save Recipe

Description

Tofu scramble is a simple and delicious plant-based alternative to scrambled eggs. Fluffy, creamy and egg-like, you’ll love this for a healthy, protein-rich vegan breakfast.

Ingredients

  • 1 350-400 g block tofu*, patted dry
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp black salt (kala namak), plus more to taste
  • ¼ tsp turmeric
  • 1 tbsp (15 g) tahini
  • 3 tbsp (21 g) nutritional yeast
  • ½ cup (120 mL) unsweetened almond milk
  • 2 tsp (10 mL) oil
  • black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp chives, optional

Instructions

  1. Press Tofu: Use a tofu press or cut tofu in half, lengthwise, so you have two thinner rectangles. Place a clean dish towel on a cutting board. Place tofu pieces on top, then cover with dish towel. Place a heavy cast iron pan on top (or a few heavy cookbooks.) Press tofu for a minimum of 15 min.
  2. Mix Sauce:To a medium bowl, add garlic powder, onion powder, black salt, turmeric, tahini and milk. Whisk well until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Cook Tofu Scramble: In a large skillet, heat 2 tsp oil over medium-high heat. While the pan is heating, crumble the tofu with your hands into bite-sized pieces.
  4. When the pan is hot, add tofu. Cook for 4-6 min, stirring occasionally, until golden-brown all over.
  5. Add Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add sauce to the pan. Cook for 2-4 min, stirring often, until tofu absorbs sauce, but it’s still creamy in texture. Season with more black salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve: Sprinkle chives over top, if using.

Notes

Serving Suggestions: Tofu Burrito, avocado toast, southwest scramble with onions and pepper, served with roasted potatoes etc.

You can use medium-firm, firm or extra-firm tofu. I like medium-firm to firm tofu for a softer, creamier texture. If you prefer a denser, firmer texture, use firm or extra-firm tofu.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 of recipe
  • Calories: 232
  • Sodium: 813 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 7 g
  • Protein: 11 g

Keywords: tofu scramble

Originally published May 1, 2016.

Breakfast Gluten-Free Grain-Free Low-Carb Nut-Free Recipes Savory Side Dishes Sugar-Free

posted by Deryn Macey on July 27, 2023

4 Comments / Leave a Comment »

« Previous PostBlueberry Spinach Salad

Next Post »Vegan Mushroom Veggie Burger Recipe

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

4 comments on “The Best Tofu Scramble Recipe”

  1. BJT August 5, 2023 @ 11:21 am Reply

    There are so many tofu scramble recipes online, but I think this one is really the best. There are more ingredients to shop for or order, but that also means the flavors are more complex. Once you have all the ingredients, it’s simple to make. My family enjoyed it with Sriracha and Cholula sauce at the table, just as they normally would with scrambled eggs. I followed the recipe exactly the first time, but I look forward to experimenting. The meal would be delicious with spinach leaves. This recipe is a must try. You can order the black salt (kala namak) online if needed or perhaps use truffle salt. The tahini is an important part of the recipe that cannot be substituted in my opinion. If it’s not available at the market, perhaps you can make your own by grinding sesame seeds. Thank you for this recipe, Deryn Macey!

    • Deryn Macey August 5, 2023 @ 3:45 pm Reply

      I’m so glad you loved it! I know it’s a bit more complex than most tofu scramble recipes but I think it’s worth the effort too. Thanks so much for the great review and feedback.

  2. Barbara January 17, 2021 @ 1:38 pm Reply

    Just wondering, do you press your tofu before adding in, or can you make this straight from the package?

    • Deryn Macey January 17, 2021 @ 4:21 pm Reply

      I don’t usually press it but you can if you’d like. I use firm or extra-firm straight from the package.

Best Tofu Scramble Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Is tofu scramble healthier than scrambled eggs? ›

While both are very healthy, tofu scramble is not better or worse than regular scrambled eggs. Both are high in protein and other nutrients, just have a different nutrient profile. They can both be part of a balanced diet! The great thing about tofu is that it tastes like whatever you put on it.

What not to mix with tofu? ›

What to not serve with tofu? According to studies, a high volume consumption of tofu and spinach together can increase your risk of kidney stones. Tofu and spinach contain calcium and oxalic acid respectively and the combined can form kidney stones.

What can I add to tofu to make it taste better? ›

Coat it in garlic, black pepper, salt (plus more of your favourite seasonings), liquid aminos and some olive oil. Then mix it into some cornstarch and toss it all together, then bake for about 20 minutes. Cornstarch also helps to draw out excess moisture so it really gets the tofu crispy.

What is the secret to cooking tofu? ›

Press it. Tofu contains a lot of water, and you'll want to squeeze most of it out, especially if you're baking, grilling, or frying it. I recommend using a tofu press to do this, because it gives the tofu a delicious chewy texture and makes cleanup a breeze. But having one isn't necessary.

Are eggs or tofu better for weight loss? ›

Compared to scrambled eggs, scrambled tofu is lower in calories, saturated fat, and cholesterol, making it a healthier option for some people.

How long does tofu scramble last in the fridge? ›

How to store tofu scramble. Unlike scrambled eggs, once the tofu is scrambled it will sit happily in the fridge for 2-3 days in an airtight container. It might dry out a little so add a splash of plant based liquid such as soy milk or coconut milk when reheating it.

Is there a downside to eating tofu? ›

Incorporating tofu into your daily meals and snacks can bring several health benefits. Those benefits include brain health promotion, ease of menopause symptoms, and heart disease prevention. However, eating tofu has some risks, as it might lead to digestive issues or interact with certain medications like MAOIs.

Why can't you eat spinach with tofu? ›

- It is said that tofu cannot be eaten together with spinach at the same time. As tofu and spinach contain calcium and oxalic acid respectively, the combination of the two will form kidney stones. But in fact, only prolonged and volumionous consumption of tofu and spinach at the same time will pose this risk.

What happens if you don't wash tofu? ›

Any food that is contaminated is going to make you ill. Remove the tofu from the packaging and rinse it thoroughly. If you are handling raw meat at the same time as the tofu, use separate utensils. Other than that, there are no risks to eating raw tofu.

What is best to season tofu? ›

Mix the cornflour, garlic, paprika, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Unravel the tofu from the paper, cut in half through the centre, then cut into triangles, cubes or strips. Toss the tofu pieces in the spiced cornflour to coat all over.

Why won t my tofu get crispy? ›

The key to crispy tofu is to heat the oil in your pan before adding tofu cubes. Coating the pan-fried tofu in corn flour helps create a crispy coating as the cubed tofu cooks in the oil. Another key to getting uber-crispy tofu is removing excess liquid/moisture from it before you cook tofu.

How long does tofu last in the fridge? ›

If it darkens in color, begins to smell, or feels slimy, it should be thrown away. Bottom line: Open packages of tofu are good in the fridge for up to five days, provided you change the water daily.

How to cook tofu for beginners? ›

Cut tofu into cubes. Step 2: Place those cubes in a bowl, and toss gently with 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Step 3: Arrange tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet and drizzle with some olive oil and salt. Step 4: Bake at 425 degrees for 25 minutes, or until as crispy as you'd like.

Is it better to fry or bake tofu? ›

It sticks, and the crispy bits end up sticking to the pan, which is a tofu tragedy. Plus, it requires more oil, and you don't need to use a lot of oil to get crispy tofu. When you bake your tofu, you give it time to develop crispy edges and warm, pillowy insides. It's simply the best.

What is a healthy substitute for scrambled eggs? ›

Flaxseed Meal

It's easy to make, affordable and never fails. To make a flax egg, simply whisk together 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes. A thick gel will form that can be used in place of one egg.

How much tofu is equivalent to one egg? ›

To replace 1 egg, substitute 1/4 cup (about 60 g) of puréed, silken tofu. Silken tofu is relatively flavorless, but it can make baked goods dense and heavy, so it's best used in brownies, cookies, quick breads, and cakes.

Why is tofu a good substitute for eggs? ›

The ability of silken tofu to quickly liquify makes it an ideal substitute for eggs and cream when baking cakes, cookies, brownies and muffins. Tofu is simply curdled soy milk, so heating and adding liquid result in a similar consistency that's also creamy, moist and rich.

How many calories are in a tofu scramble? ›

Nutrition Information
NutrientsAmount
Total Calories142
Total Fat9 g
Saturated Fat3 g
Monounsaturated Fat3 g
34 more rows

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Margart Wisoky

Last Updated:

Views: 6155

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (58 voted)

Reviews: 81% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Margart Wisoky

Birthday: 1993-05-13

Address: 2113 Abernathy Knoll, New Tamerafurt, CT 66893-2169

Phone: +25815234346805

Job: Central Developer

Hobby: Machining, Pottery, Rafting, Cosplaying, Jogging, Taekwondo, Scouting

Introduction: My name is Margart Wisoky, I am a gorgeous, shiny, successful, beautiful, adventurous, excited, pleasant person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.