Brussels Sprout Fried Rice

Brussels Sprout Fried Rice with Spicy Baked Tofu is a bold, hearty, and satisfying plant-based dish that’s packed with texture and flavor. Crispy rice meets caramelized Brussels sprouts, all tossed with a soy-maple glaze and topped with spicy, sriracha-marinated baked tofu. It’s a creative and crave-worthy twist on classic fried rice that’s perfect for dinner or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal. The shaved Brussels sprouts cook up tender-crisp, adding a slightly nutty bite that pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory glaze. The spicy baked tofu adds protein and heat, balancing the dish with crispy edges and rich flavor. It’s vegan, customizable, easy to prep ahead, and naturally gluten-free with a simple soy sauce swap.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Spicy Baked Tofu:

• 7 ounces extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed for at least 20 minutes

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon sriracha

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 2 teaspoons maple syrup

• ½ teaspoon sesame oil

For the Brussels Sprout Fried Rice:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

• 1½ tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 3 scallions, chopped (white and green parts separated)

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger

• 3 cups very thinly sliced Brussels sprouts

• 3 cups cooked rice, preferably day-old and chilled

• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

Directions

Make the Spicy Baked Tofu:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Cut the pressed tofu into ½-inch cubes.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sriracha, vinegar, maple syrup, and sesame oil.

4. Toss tofu cubes in the marinade and let sit for a few minutes.

5. Spread tofu in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Reserve any excess marinade.

6. Bake for 15 minutes. Turn tofu and brush with remaining marinade.

7. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, until crispy in spots. Set aside.

Make the Brussels Sprout Fried Rice:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce and maple syrup. Set aside.

2. Heat vegetable oil and sesame oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.

3. Add the white parts of the scallions, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add the shredded Brussels sprouts and stir-fry for 2 minutes.

5. Add the chilled rice and soy-maple sauce. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until Brussels sprouts are bright green and tender-crisp, and the rice has some dry, crispy spots.

6. Remove from heat and fold in the spicy baked tofu.

7. Serve hot, garnished with green scallion tops and toasted sesame seeds.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Low-Carb Option: Substitute cauliflower rice for cooked rice.

• Extra Veggies: Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas during stir-fry.

• Milder Tofu: Omit sriracha or use less for a less spicy tofu.

• Soy-Free Version: Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.

• Protein Boost: Double the tofu or add edamame for more plant protein.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium-high heat to restore crispiness, or microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
For best texture, avoid freezing as Brussels sprouts and tofu may lose their crisp edges.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh Brussels sprouts are best for texture, but you can use thawed frozen ones if shredded well and stir-fried quickly.

What type of rice works best?

Day-old, chilled rice (like jasmine or basmati) gives the best texture for fried rice, preventing it from becoming mushy.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes. Reduce or omit the sriracha in the tofu marinade for a milder flavor.

How do I shave Brussels sprouts?

Use a food processor with a slicing blade, a mandolin, or a sharp knife to slice them very thinly.

Can I prepare the tofu ahead of time?

Yes. The tofu can be baked up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to stir into the rice.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

Can I add eggs like in traditional fried rice?

Yes. Scramble an egg or two in the skillet before adding the rice for added richness (omit for vegan).

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

Agave nectar or brown sugar are good substitutes in both the tofu and rice sauces.

Can I air-fry the tofu?

Yes. Air-fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, for crispy results.

What goes well with this dish?

Serve with a light miso soup, a cucumber salad, or kimchi for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Brussels Sprout Fried Rice with Spicy Baked Tofu is a vibrant, nourishing dish packed with texture, heat, and flavor. It’s a creative way to enjoy Brussels sprouts and tofu, transforming them into a bold, hearty meal that’s perfect for weeknights or meal prep. Whether you’re vegan or just looking to eat more plant-based, this dish is a must-try.