Tofu Al Pastor Bowl with Cilantro Rice and Charred Pineapple
A vibrant vegetarian twist on al pastor, this bowl teams spicy-sweet marinated tofu with fluffy cilantro rice, charred pineapple, and fresh salsa. Smoky, citrusy, and zippy, it’s a weeknight-friendly plant-based main with bold flavors and balanced textures.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
Servings:
2 servings
(originally 4 servings)Ingredients(scaled)
- ½ block firm tofu (14 oz/400 g), pressed and cubed
- 1 tbsp adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers
- ½ tbsp white vinegar
- ½ tbsp orange juice
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- ½ 1/2 tsp onion powder
- ½ 1/4 tsp paprika
- ½ 1/4 tsp black pepper
- ½ 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- ½ cup long-grain white rice
- 1 cups water
- ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- ½ lime, juiced
- ½ cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned in juice
- ½ tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup pico de gallo or salsa fresca
- ½ cup shredded red cabbage
- ½ Optional: 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Marinate tofu: combine adobo sauce, vinegar, orange juice, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, pepper, and salt. Add tofu cubes and toss to coat; rest 10 minutes.
- Rice: rinse rice, simmer with 2 cups water until tender, about 15 minutes; fluff with a squeeze of lime and chopped cilantro.
- Cook tofu: heat a skillet with olive oil over medium-high; sear marinated tofu until edges are crisp and caramelized, 6–8 minutes.
- Pineapple: in the same pan, add pineapple chunks; cook 2–3 minutes until charred with golden edges.
- Assemble bowls: spoon cilantro rice, top with tofu, pineapple, cabbage, and pico; finish with lime juice and optional jalapeño for heat.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Press tofu well to maximize crispness.
- Char pineapple on high heat for a smoky note.
- Adjust heat with extra adobo or jalapeño.
- Cilantro rice can be made ahead for quick bowls.
- Add a dollop of crema or yogurt for creaminess (optional).
Serving Suggestions
Serve with extra lime wedges and scattered pico for brightness; pair with a simple avocado or black bean side if desired.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.
Nutritional Estimates
Per serving · 2 servings total
| calories | 520 |
|---|---|
| protein | 22 |
| carbs | 72 |
| fat | 14 |
| fiber | 6 |
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