Best Tofu Scramble Recipe (2024)

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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.

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  • 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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

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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.

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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.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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Best Tofu Scramble Recipe (9)

Tofu Scramble

5 Stars4 Stars3 Stars2 Stars1 Star5 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
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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

Originally published May 1, 2016.

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posted by Deryn Macey on July 27, 2023

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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 good for you? ›

Head to head, tofu scramble and scrambled eggs are nutritionally comparable and both healthy choices. They are complete sources of protein, providing all essential amino acids; are low in calories; and relatively low in saturated fat.

Is scrambled tofu better than scrambled eggs? ›

In case you're wondering which is healthier, eggs or tofu, the match-up is surprisingly close. If you compare them per serving (1 egg to a 3.5-ounce serving of tofu), the tofu has a similar amount of calories and slightly more protein. Here's how they stack up: Calories: egg = 78 | tofu = 70.

What spices are good to season tofu with? ›

Combine brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garam masala, oregano, garlic powder and salt. Dredge tofu in spice blend, covering all surfaces.

What spice tastes like eggs? ›

Luckily for me (and you), there is a magical spice called Kala Namak. Kala Namak, also known as Himalayan Black Salt, is a black salt that tastes just like hardboiled eggs because of the sulfur compounds in it.

What is the downside of eating too much tofu? ›

The significant disadvantages of Tofu may cause allergies in some people. The symptoms of soy allergies include skin rash, inflammation, itching, fainting, breathing difficulty, abdominal pain and throat swelling. In rare scenarios, Tofu may cause osteoporosis and estrogen-related cancer.

Is it OK to eat tofu everyday? ›

Similarly, the American Cancer Society sees no dangers from eating soy. "For the vast majority of people, it should be reasonable to incorporate tofu in their daily diet without any issues," Sun said.

What makes tofu taste better? ›

Press tofu and cube it. 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? ›

First, drain and press the tofu.

For the best texture, press the tofu using a tofu press or cast-iron skillet for 20 to 30 minutes. If you're short on time, just drain the tofu and gently press it in a kitchen towel or paper towels over the sink. The tofu won't be as firm this way, but it will still be delicious!

What are the pros and cons of 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.

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 should I marinate tofu in? ›

In a mixing bowl or measuring cup with a spout, whisk together the marinade: soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, olive oil, sesame oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ginger, and Sriracha. Drizzle over the tofu. If any pieces look bare, turn them over in the marinade a few times so all of the sides are coated.

How can I flavor my tofu? ›

12 Ways To Add More Flavor To Tofu
  1. Press tofu to help it absorb flavor. Nungning20/Shutterstock. ...
  2. Coat tofu in starch before cooking. ...
  3. Season tofu more than you think. ...
  4. Use a marinade. ...
  5. Toss it in a sauce. ...
  6. Find inspiration from other foods. ...
  7. Roast tofu for tasty caramelization. ...
  8. Try deep frying your tofu.
Jan 7, 2024

Should you add milk to scrambled eggs? ›

Adding milk or plain water to scrambled eggs is an optional step that affects the texture of your finished dish. For creamy scrambled eggs, you'll add up to 1 tablespoon of milk for every egg. For fluffy scrambled eggs, you'll add up to 1 tablespoon of water for every egg.

Is paprika good in scrambled eggs? ›

Although paprika is not an overly strong spice, it provides a good balance of mild, sweet peppery flavor to egg dishes. If you want your paprika to pack a bit of heat, use smoked paprika. Smoked paprika offers a bolder flavor that will really make your eggs pop.

What can I add to scrambled eggs to make them taste better? ›

11 things to add to eggs
  1. A teaspoon of chopped, fresh stronger herbs like oregano, tarragon, or thyme.
  2. 1 tablespoon chopped fresh milder herbs like parsley, chives, chervil, basil, or mint.
  3. Tabasco, Worcestershire, or other prepared sauce, to taste.
  4. A quarter cup grated or crumbled cheddar, goat, or other melting cheese.
Mar 23, 2020

Is scrambled tofu good for weight loss? ›

Low calorie density: Tofu is a low calorie food, with around 70-90 calories per 100 grams, making it a good option for those who are trying to lose weight. This is because foods with low calorie density help you feel full with fewer calories, which can help you consume fewer total calories throughout the day.

What is the healthiest form of tofu? ›

Silken tofu contains only about half the calories and fat, while firm tofu contains over twice the protein. The reason for this is water content.

How unhealthy is fried tofu? ›

Frying tofu can give it a crispy texture, but comes at a cost – it can be high in calories, up to three times more than baked or air-fried tofu. This is because frying requires added oil as a heat conductor, which cooks the tofu evenly but also makes it absorb more oil, resulting in more fat and calories.

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