Updated: Aug 2, 2025 · Published: Jun 7, 2025 by makepurethyheart · This post may contain affiliate links · 36 Comments

Easy Vietnamese Tomato Tofu Recipe (Vegan)

Name: Easy Vietnamese Tomato Tofu Recipe (Vegan)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 block (14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes); 1 tablespoon olive oil (or neutral oil for frying tofu); 4 ripe juicy tomatoes (diced (or 2 cups canned diced tomatoes)); 3 stalks green onions (spring onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)); 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor); 2 tablespoons light soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar/lime juice); 1 teaspoon sesame oil; ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); ½ cup cup of water (adjust for sauce consistency); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for slurry); 2 tablespoons water (for slurry); Paper towels for pressing tofu; Optional: red pepper flakes (sesame seeds, fish sauce (if not vegetarian), or bell peppers)

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Tomato tofu, also known as đậu sốt cà chua, is one of those soulful dishes that blends rich umami, tangy tomatoes, and soft tofu into one harmoniously simple recipe. It’s hearty without being heavy, vibrant yet budget-friendly, and fits right in whether you’re going meatless for a night or following a plant-based lifestyle.

Savory tofu scramble with tomato sauce and chopped green onions on white bowl.

Let’s walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Vietnamese tomato tofu—a dish that might just become your next weeknight favorite.

Other Tofu Recipes!

Why You'll Love This Tomato Tofu Recipe

There’s something magical about a dish that feels both nostalgic and nourishing. This tofu recipe hits that sweet spot.

Simple ingredients like juicy tomatoes, soy sauce, and extra-firm tofu make it affordable.
Ready in just 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.
A great way to introduce tofu skeptics to a lot of flavor without needing a ton of seasoning.
Adaptable for gluten-free and vegan diets.
It pairs beautifully with hot rice, jasmine rice, or even brown rice for a wholesome meal.

Main Ingredients for Tomato Tofu

Fresh tomatoes, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, and tofu for healthy homemade cooking | Make Pure Thy Heart.

Ingredient	Description
Tofu	Use extra-firm tofu or pre-fried tofu for best texture.
Tomatoes	Opt for juicy tomatoes or fresh cherry tomatoes.
Green Onions	Also called spring onions, they add sharp, fresh flavor.
Soy Sauce	Adds a savory, umami punch—use light soy sauce for clarity.
Vinegar	Helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Sesame Oil	A tiny drizzle brings a nutty finish.
Cornstarch	Used in a slurry to thicken the sauce at the end.
Olive Oil	Or neutral oil/vegetable oil for sautéing.
Black Pepper	A pinch to season the final dish.

How to Prepare the Tofu

Before you dive into the cooking process, preparing your tofu properly is key.

Press it: Use a tofu press or wrap in paper towels and place a heavy item on top to drain excess water.
Cut it: Slice your block of tofu into smaller pieces or cubes, or try tofu cutlets for a heartier texture.
Pan-fry it: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, use olive oil and cook the tofu cubes until golden brown on all sides.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cut Up the Tofu

Soft tofu blocks on a wooden cutting board for healthy eating recipes.

Slice the tofu into cubes or rectangles.
Pat dry again with paper towels to eliminate any excess liquid.

Sauté Green Onions

Cooked scallions in a stainless steel pan for healthy cooking.

In a large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil on medium heat.
Add green onions, both white parts and greens, and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.

Add Tomatoes

Fresh homemade tomato sauce cooking with chopped tomatoes and green onions, representing healthy, plant-based cooking.

Toss in diced tomatoes or fresh cherry tomatoes, and sauté until they start breaking down.
For richness, add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and a splash of water to make it saucy.

Make the Sauce

A bowl of soy sauce on a decorative black and white patterned plate with fresh sliced tomatoes nearby.

Mix 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, and a drizzle of sesame oil.
Optionally add red pepper flakes or vegetarian oyster sauce for a depth of flavor.

Add Sauce to the Tomatoes & Tofu

Tofu cooking with tomatoes and green peppers, healthy plant-based meal, vegetarian recipe, nutritional, fresh ingredients.

Pour the sauce into the tomato mixture and simmer over medium-low heat for 5 minutes.

Adjust the Consistency

Tofu vegetable stew, healthy vegan soup with tomatoes, green onions, and spices in a cooking pot.

If the sauce gets too thick, stir in a cup of water little by little.
If it’s too thin, increase the heat slightly and allow it to reduce.

Thicken with Slurry

Fresh tomato and tofu stew with vegetables in a stainless steel pot, highlighting healthy plant-based ingredients for a nutritious meal.

Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl.
Pour into the pan and stir until the sauce is glossy and thickened.

Variations of Tomato Tofu

Add ground pork: For a traditional Vietnamese twist.
Use silken tofu: Delicate but great for a softer mouthfeel.
Include bell peppers: For color and crunch.
Try fish sauce: If not vegetarian, adds salty umami.

Substitutions You Can Make

Soy sauce → tamari (gluten-free)
Sesame oil → chili oil for a spicy kick
Vinegar → lime juice for a citrusy profile
Cornstarch → arrowroot powder

Savory tofu tomato stew with green onions in a stainless steel pan, healthy plant-based meal for heart health.

Top Tip for Perfect Tomato Tofu

Always fry tofu until it’s golden brown. This step is not just about texture—it helps the tofu soak up the tangy sauce without falling apart. Use a cutting board to dice everything in advance, so your cooking time flows effortlessly.

Helpful Hint

Too much water in the tomatoes? Cook longer before adding tofu or spoon off some excess liquid. This ensures your sauce isn’t too diluted.

FAQs About Tomato Tofu

Can I bake the tofu instead of frying it?
Yes! Use a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.

How long does tomato tofu last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat over medium-low heat.

Can I freeze tomato tofu?
Freezing is not recommended unless using extra-firm tofu. Silken tofu doesn’t freeze well.

What rice pairs best with tomato tofu?
We love it with hot fluffy rice, white rice, or jasmine rice.

Can I make it spicier?
Of course! Add red pepper flakes or chili garlic sauce.

Is this an authentic Vietnamese dish?
Yes, this is a version of Vietnamese tomato tofu (đậu sốt cà chua), a beloved comfort food in Vietnamese cuisine.

Parting Thought

This Vietnamese dish brings together everything that’s wonderful about home cooking: familiar ingredients, fast prep, and deep comfort. Whether it’s your first time making a tofu dish or you’re a seasoned cook, this simple dish will surprise you with its flavor and ease. Bookmark this recipe card for next time—you’ll want to come back to it.

Enjoy your tomato tofu with a side of fluffy rice and a smile.