hawaiian tofu poke bowls

As winter shifts to spring, my thoughts turn towards lighter, brighter meals that require less stove-time. These Hawaiian-style Tofu Poke (pronounced po-kay) Bowls are simple to put together and require only the time needed to cook the rice, sauté the tofu, and mix the sauce. Vegan bowls make quick and easy mid-week suppers, portable lunches, and sociable dinners with family and friends. Put all the ingredients out and let each person combine their own perfect mixture of tastes and textures. The discussion and friendly elbowing that ensues is a great conversation starter.

Serves 4-6

Tamari-Glazed Tofu

1 14-ounce block of firm tofu, sliced or cubed

2 Tablespoons tamari sauce

2 Tablespoons pure maple syrup

2 Tablespoons water

1. Heat a non-stick sauté pan over high heat and add the sliced or cubed tofu. Sear the tofu in the pan, turning occasionally, until it begins to char around the edges.

2. Mix together the tamari, maple syrup, and water in a small bowl and pour over the tofu. Reduce the heat and continue cooking and turning occasionally until the liquid has turned into a glaze that coats the tofu evenly. Set aside.

Firecracker Sauce

(makes 1 1/2 cup)

1/2 cup tahini

1/2 cup water

juice of 1 lemon

2-4 teaspoons sriracha sauce, to taste

pinch of sea salt

1. Mix all ingredients together in a medium bowl using a whisk, or in a blender. If necessary, thin with water or thicken with tahini.

2. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Steamed white or brown rice (1/2 cup cooked, per bowl)

Any or all of the following:

Fresh pineapple cubes, diced

Cucumber, peeled and diced

Edamame, fresh or frozen (defrosted and drained)

Avocado, sliced

Carrots, shredded

Red cabbage, shredded

Lettuce, spring mix or chopped romaine

Scallions, sliced

Cilantro, chopped

Peanuts or Macadamia nuts

Pickled ginger

Sesame seeds

Place rice in individual serving bowl. Top with tofu, pineapple, cucumber, edamame, avocado, carrots and any or all of the other suggested toppings. Serve drizzled with Firecracker Sauce, or a simple splash of tamari, ponzu, or liquid aminos.