Easy Rice Cooker Tofu Fried Rice: Weeknight Favorite
Looking for a quick, wholesome, and family-friendly meal that tastes just as good as takeout if not better? This simple rice cooker tofu fried rice is the answer. It’s become one of my go-to meals on busy weeknights when I want something hearty, comforting, and still packed with nutrients. Best of all, you can throw it together in your rice cooker with minimal fuss, and kids love it too!
Tender cubes of golden tofu, colorful veggies, and fluffy, seasoned rice all melded together in a warm, savory mix this recipe hits every note. Whether you’re a plant-based pro or just tofu-curious, this dish makes tofu taste fantastic.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Effortless – Everything is done in a rice cooker after prepping, making clean-up easy.
- Kid-approved – Mild flavors and fun textures make it a hit with little ones.
- Customizable – Use up whatever veggies you have on hand.
- Nutritious – Balanced with plant-based protein, fiber, and flavor.
- Perfect for leftovers – A great way to use day-old rice and turn it into a new meal.
Simple Ingredients
This dish uses staples that are easy to find and even easier to love:
- Cooked rice: Day-old rice is ideal for the best texture; it won’t get mushy.
- Firm tofu: Soaks up all the flavor and gets perfectly golden when fried.
- Mixed vegetables: Bell peppers, peas, and carrots give color and crunch.
- Soy sauce: The salty umami base that ties it all together.
- Sesame oil: A little goes a long way to give that nutty depth.
- Green onions: Adds freshness and a pop of color at the end.
- Garlic powder: Brings warmth and richness.
- Salt & pepper: For simple seasoning and taste balance.
- Oil for frying: Helps crisp up the tofu for texture.
Cook and Prep Times
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
What is Needed
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Heat a small amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the rice cooker bowl, add cooked rice, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and the cooked tofu. Stir well to combine.
- Close the rice cooker lid and set it to the cook function. Allow it to cook for about 10-15 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Once cooked, open the rice cooker, stir in chopped green onions, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Scoop into bowls and enjoy hot.
Top Tips
- Use day-old rice – It gives the best texture for fried rice.
- Crisp the tofu well – Golden edges make all the difference in taste and texture.
- Let the rice sit for 5 minutes after cooking – Helps soak up any remaining sauce and intensifies flavor.
- Chop veggies evenly – For consistent cooking and kid-friendly bites.
- Let kids help stir – It’s a fun, safe task and gets them excited to eat it.
Recipe Variations
- Use tamari for gluten-free
- Swap tofu with scrambled eggs or tempeh
- Add a touch of chili garlic sauce for a kick
- Use frozen mixed veggies for convenience
Recommended Equipment
- Rice cooker
- Non-stick frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Make Ahead Tips
- Tofu can be cooked up to 2 days in advance and refrigerated.
- Chop veggies ahead of time and store in airtight container.
How to Store and Reheat
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive texture.
What To Serve With This Recipe
- A side of miso soup
- Cucumber salad or Asian slaw
- Steamed edamame with sea salt
More Recipes
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Simple Rice Cooker Tofu Fried Rice
Equipment
- Rice Cooker
- Non-stick frying pan
- Wooden Spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice preferably day-old
- 1 block firm tofu drained and cubed
- 1 cup mixed vegetables peas, carrots, and bell peppers
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Heat a small amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the rice cooker bowl, add cooked rice, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and the cooked tofu. Stir well to combine.
- Close the rice cooker lid and set it to the cook function. Allow it to cook for about 10-15 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Once cooked, open the rice cooker, stir in chopped green onions, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Scoop into bowls and enjoy hot.
Notes
- Day-old rice works best.
- Press tofu for 15 minutes if you have time, for an even better texture.
One-Pot Cooking Rocks!
Michelle
Hi, I’m Michelle, the founder, owner, author, and editor of OvenSpot. My passion for one-pot cooking commenced when I was working to prepare cafeteria lunches for school students. I am now on a mission to assist you in choosing the cooking pot or appliance you will use daily. As well as in-depth information to assist you in using and caring for your cookware and appliances. Along with the yummy recipes I use at home.
Questions? Reach out to Michelle at [email protected]