Crispy Tofu and Kimchi Fried Rice with Sesame

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A savory fried rice with golden tofu and spicy kimchi, finished with a nutty sesame seed topping. This asian-inspired one pot (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes pairs firm tofu, kimchi, cooked jasmine rice for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 3, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.3 (15 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Asian cuisine 420 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes in a single layer and cook for 5 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Add kimchi and its juices to the skillet, stirring for 2 minutes to release flavor. Add cooked rice and soy sauce, breaking up clumps with a spatula. Cook for 3 minutes until rice is heated through and slightly crispy.
  3. Step 3: Return tofu to skillet and toss gently to coat. Cook for 1 more minute. Remove from heat and stir in green onions.
  4. Step 4: Transfer to serving plates, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, and serve immediately while crispy.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Crispy Tofu and Kimchi Fried Rice with Sesame take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Crispy Tofu and Kimchi Fried Rice with Sesame?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep firm tofu from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Crispy Tofu and Kimchi Fried Rice with Sesame?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Crispy Tofu and Kimchi Fried Rice with Sesame for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Crispy Tofu and Kimchi Fried Rice with Sesame vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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