Author: Start your day with this Hearty Tofu Scramble recipe, a vegan-friendly dish that tastes just like scrambled eggs. Flavorful, satisfying, and packed with protein, it's the perfect cholesterol-free option for breakfast or brunch. Made with seasoned tofu, sautéed veggies, and hearty black beans, it's easy to see why this recipe is a fan-favorite!
FEATURED COMMENT:
This is the best tofu scramble I've ever made. (and I've tried A LOT) Definitely a keeper!! I added broccoli because I love it, and I had extra. Really delicious. - Char ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This Hearty Tofu Scramble recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves a savory breakfast that's filling, customizable, and downright delicious. It's quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable, as you can use whatever veggies or beans you have on hand to make it your own. Plus, it pairs beautifully with avocado toast, roasted potatoes, or even as a filling for breakfast burritos or breakfast tacos.
What Makes This Tofu Scramble the Perfect Vegan Breakfast Recipe
- Packed with Protein: A hearty breakfast that keeps you full and energized.
- Bursting with Flavor: A delicious, savory dish with customizable options.
- Quick & Easy: The perfect way to start your day, this recipe comes together in minutes.
Ingredients for Tofu Scramble
- Spices: Turmeric adds color and antioxidants, while chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder provide warmth, depth, and savory flavor.
- Tofu: The star of the dish! Simply drain your tofu and lightly pat it with a clean towel before using it, no need to press it for this recipe. Want a creamier texture? Use medium-firm tofu. For a chewier consistency, opt for firm tofu. Adjust the size of the tofu crumbles to match your preferred texture. 👉 New to tofu? Start here: How to Cook Tofu (Crispy, Baked, Air Fryer, Pan-Fried)
- Black Salt (Kala Namak): This special salt is a game-changer for anyone craving that eggy flavor. It has a unique sulfuric aroma and taste, perfect for replicating the flavor of eggs in vegan dishes. This is the key that makes the scramble taste like eggs. You can find this in South Asian or Indian grocery stores or online. If you do not want your scramble to have an eggy flavor, you can omit black salt and instead season to taste with regular salt.
- Nutritional Yeast: Often referred to as "nooch," this ingredient adds a savory, cheesy depth of flavor to the dish. It's also a great source of B vitamins, making it a nutritious addition to the spice mix. You can find it in the health food section of your grocery store or order it online. If you don't have any on hand you can skip it (but it sure is a yummy addition)!
- Veggies & Beans: These bring texture, color, and flavor, and an extra protein boost to this recipe, making it extra hearty. Check the recipe notes for more veggie and beans options you could try.
How to Make Hearty Tofu Scramble
- Prepare the spice mix: In a small bowl, mix together the nutritional yeast, chili powder, cumin, black salt, turmeric, and garlic powder. Set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. Once hot, add the mushrooms, red pepper, onion, and garlic. Sauté for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and just starting to brown.
- Scramble the tofu: Use your hands to break the tofu into chunks and add it to the skillet with the vegetables. Then, use a spoon or spatula to break the tofu into smaller chunks to create a scramble-like texture.
- Season and heat through: Add the black beans and sprinkle the spice mix over the tofu and vegetables. Stir well to combine. Cook for another 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together.
Tips and Tricks to Make the BEST Tofu Scramble
- Meal prep: Prep this tofu scramble recipe, let it cool, then store it in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through for a stress-free breakfast.
- Batch the spice mix: Prepare the spice mix in bulk and store it in a jar in your pantry for up to 2 years. Use about 3 tablespoons of the mix for each batch of tofu scramble to save time during prep.
- Customization ideas: Swap in your favorite veggies, such as zucchini, spinach, or sweet potatoes, to keep things fresh and exciting. You can also try different beans, like pinto or kidney beans, to change up the flavors and textures.
What to Serve With This Tofu Scramble Recipe
Serve the tofu scramble with toasted bread, avocado slices, roasted potatoes, or vegan bacon for a hearty vegan breakfast or brunch. For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or top with your favorite hot sauce. Here are some additional ideas for completing your breakfast:
- Easy Vegan Bacon
- Vegan Breakfast Sausage Patties
- Homemade Vegan Bagels
- Easy Vegan Pancakes
- Homemade Sandwich Bread
- Green Smoothie, Tropical Smoothie, or Protein Smoothie
- Vegan Egg Yolk (some people like to drizzle this on top for extra eggyness)!
How to Store and Reheat
Leftovers of this tofu scramble recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
If you try this tofu scramble recipe let us know by leaving a comment, rating it, and don't forget to tag @itdoesnttastelikechicken on Instagram. You can also pin this recipe on Pinterest to save it for later!
Bon appetegan!
Sam Turnbull.
(click stars to vote)
Hearty Tofu Scramble
Start your day with this Hearty Tofu Scramble-a vegan-friendly dish that delivers all the flavor of scrambled eggs. Packed with protein, satisfying, and completely cholesterol-free, it's the perfect choice for breakfast or brunch. Made with seasoned tofu, sautéed veggies, and hearty black beans, it's no wonder this recipe is a fan favorite. Check the notes for plenty of veggie and bean swap ideas!
Servings:
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Ingredients
For the spice mix:
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon black salt (kala namak), (a special salt with an eggy flavor-perfect for scrambles! You can order it here)
- ¾ teaspoons ground turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
For the tofu scramble:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, (or preferred oil; for oil-free, use vegetable broth)
- 8 oz button or cremini mushrooms, sliced (about 1 ½ cups)
- 1 red pepper, chopped
- ½ yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 block (16 oz / 454 g) medium-firm or firm tofu, drained (no need to press)
- 1 can (14 oz / 398 mL) black beans, drained and rinsed (1 ¾ cups cooked beans)
Instructions
- Prepare the spice mix: In a small bowl, mix together the nutritional yeast, chili powder, cumin, black salt, turmeric, and garlic powder. Set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. Once hot, add the mushrooms, red pepper, onion, and garlic. Sauté for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and just starting to brown.
- Scramble the tofu: Use your hands to break the tofu into chunks and add it to the skillet with the vegetables. Then, use a spoon or spatula to break the tofu into smaller chunks to create a scramble-like texture.
- Season and heat through: Add the black beans and sprinkle the spice mix over the tofu and vegetables. Stir well to combine. Cook for another 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the tofu scramble with toasted bread, avocado slices, roasted potatoes, or vegan bacon for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or top with your favorite hot sauce.Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Notes
Customize Your Scramble:
Feel free to customize the vegetables and beans based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences! Here are some great options: Vegetables:- Spinach or kale: Add a handful of leafy greens for extra nutrients. Stir them in at the end to wilt slightly.
- Zucchini: Dice and sauté along with the mushrooms for a mild, tender addition.
- Sweet potatoes: For a heartier option, add cooked sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet and savory contrast.
- Tomatoes: Diced fresh or sun-dried tomatoes add a juicy, tangy burst.
- Broccoli: Chopped broccoli florets bring a nice crunch and extra fiber.
- Carrots: Shredded or diced, carrots offer a touch of sweetness and crunch.
- Pinto beans: These are a mild, creamy alternative to black beans.
- Kidney beans: With their robust flavor, they make a hearty addition to the scramble.
- Chickpeas: Lightly mash them for a different texture and extra protein.
- White beans: These beans blend well and add a subtle, creamy texture.
- Lentils: Cooked green or brown lentils can add some extra fiber and protein.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 serving (recipe makes 4 servings) | Calories: 244kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 597mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1090IU | Vitamin C: 41mg | Calcium: 158mg | Iron: 4mg
Cathy says
Omg! I am a newbie to veganism and your website is a Godsend! I made this today (I didn’t have red peppers but I used broccoli). So delicious! And the spice mix was amazing ❤️ Thank you!
Sam Turnbull says
You're most welcome, Cathy, and a big huge welcome from me to your new vegan lifestyle! I hope you continue to enjoy my recipes and let me know if you ever have any questions or need any support 🙂
Heather Brown says
Hi Sam! I'm a vegan newbie and am definitely excited to try this recipe out for breakfast! I was wondering - does this meal stay good if I portion it out and refrigerate some? If so, how long do you think this will last in the fridge? I'm not familiar with cooking / storing tofu so figured I would ask! Thanks so much! I bought your cookbook for my sister's birthday and she LOVES it! 🙂
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Heather! Absolutely, just store it in the fridge in an air-tight container. It should keep for 3-4 days. So happy your sister loves my book!
Barbara F Salisbury says
Tried this today and it was a BIG hit with the family.
Thanks!!
Sam Turnbull says
Woohoo! You're most welcome, Barbara!
Ginny says
I never write reviews, but I just made this for breakfast and WOW it Is so good!! I made a few swaps for what I had in my kitchen (shiitake mushrooms, 1 tomato instead of bell pepper, regular white salt instead of black salt, and added some seitan.) Highly recommend this recipe! I usually just wing it with tofu scramble And am always dissatisfied. Never again!
Sam Turnbull says
Yay! So happy you loved it so much, Ginny!
Steve says
I received your cookbook this weekend and I looked through it this morning to find something to make for lunch. I settled on the Tofu Scramble.
Good stuff!
Thanks so much. You are making this easy.
Sam Turnbull says
Yay!! So happy you are enjoying it 🙂
Helen says
Do I need to press the tofu to get water out before scrambling? Thanks!
Sam Turnbull says
Nope. I always include all the directions and steps needed in my recipes.
Sherri Obermark says
This looks so good, I can't wait to try it!
Sam Turnbull says
Awesome! I hope you enjoy it, Sherri 🙂
Stephanie Knowles says
This is hands down the best brekkie I've had in years. The silken tofu is absolutely beautiful in this recipe, so creamy and subtle and the spice mix is just right. Accompanied by some of the rice paper bacon from your cookbook, this recipe absolutely made my day. Thanks Sam!
Sam Turnbull says
That's so awesome, Stephanie!! Thrilled you loved it so very much! 😀
Angela! says
Hi Sam!
I’m a new vegan and I miss eggs the most! The silken extra firm tofu was right on texture to eggs. I have made this recipe twice and the second time I took a tip from my local spice shop.. Yes, there is an entire shop just for spices, it’s frankly amazing.. The black salt punches more flavor if not cooked.. So... take two I sprinkled some (like you would sugar on cereal) on top of the scramble in stead of in the cooked mix and it kicked me in the face with eggy deliciousness!! So much less salt and still amazing!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! That's amazing! So thrilled you enjoyed the scramble so much 😀
Susannah says
Sam,
This was my first recipe using tofu! It was a great experience. I am also enjoying your cookbook. So thankful I found you & your recipes 🙂
Susannah
Sam Turnbull says
Welcome to tofu, Susannah!! So thrilled you loved it. Thrilled you are enjoying my book! I'm glad you said hi 🙂
Leah says
This recipe never fails me! I’ve pleased many vegans and non-vegans alike with this scramble. I always have a large batch of the seasoning on hand so I can throw this meal together pretty quickly for any meal. I also really appreciate the tips about making the scramble in general, as I often sub out different veggies... had I used other recipes, I’m sure my scrambles would always be a sloppy, slimy mess. Thank you!
Giedre says
Truly wonderful recipe! Mine came out extremely spicy though, so it's either the chilli powder I used or i spazzed and threw in a tablespoon instead of a teaspoon accidentally - just have to watch that next time! But otherwise really good. I think it would work as a breakfast burrito filling quite well!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha, so happy you enjoyed it, Giedre!! 😀
Jose Gramillo says
Hello!
Just came across this recipe and must say it looks delicious to make and eat! I will definitely be subscribing for more vegan recipes
Sam Turnbull says
Awesome!! I hope you love it 😀
Krista says
This is hands down the BEST tofu scramble I have ever had! I followed the recipe except I only had 1/2 a block of firm tofu on hand so I added in a Siracha baked tofu that I had in the fridge. It was amazing! Served with gf toast and avacado. YUM. Making again...and again...!
Sam Turnbull says
YAY! So happy you loved it so much, Krista 🙂
Pam says
I made this for breakfast and it was delicious. It’s also more filling and nutritious than some of my other breakfast choices. Will definitely have regularly.
Sam Turnbull says
Awesome! Thrilled you enjoyed it, Pam.
Liz says
I have to admit, I was skeptical at first. I don't really like tofu, but only because I haven't found a way to prepare it that's actually delicious. This recipe changed that. Thanks!
Sam Turnbull says
Woohoo!! Thrilled you loved it, Liz 🙂
Moni says
Awfully delicious! Been up since 4.20am unable to fall asleep. Started looking for the scrambled tofu recipes at 5am, moved to the kitchen at 6am. If I had time I’d still be sitting at the breakfast table pondering how great it was! The combination of mushrooms, tomato, frozen spinach and white beans (with a black spot) was spectacular. Avo, cucumber, raddish and some crackers on the side topped it all! Thanks.
Sam Turnbull says
Wonderful! SO happy you enjoyed it, Moni 🙂
mamaplanted says
DELICIOUS! I have been wanting to try tofu scramble for a long time, but never had the courage to make it because I was afraid it was going to be awful. This was actually really, really tasty. I kept the spices the same, but made it with chopped tomatoes and spinach. I find that vegan alternatives can often be a sad disappointment, especially when trying to convince meat-eating family and friends. But this meal deserves its own place on the menu. Yum!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! Love it! So happy you enjoyed it so much. I feed my meat-eating friends and family my recipes and they always love them. It's just about being able to have all the flavours and textures 🙂
Michelle says
I was looking for a way to use up some tofu and this was perfect. While I halved the recipe it still made enough for 4 breakfasts. The ingredients are actually zero points on the new freestyle weight watchers plan,I can't thank you enough!
Sam Turnbull says
Wow amazing!! Thrilled you enjoyed it, Michelle 🙂
Orla says
Hi Sam, I made this for lunch today. Didn't put in the chilli or beans though. Had it on toast. Lovely. You get the texture of eggs which is great when you are trying to stick to veganism. I will make it again as its quick to throw together. It would be easy to make in advance and take to work. Thanks,
Sam Turnbull says
Thrilled you loved it so much, Orla 🙂