Tofu Scramble Plant-Based Breakfast

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This hearty plant-based dish transforms firm tofu into fluffy, golden crumbles seasoned with turmeric, cumin, and smoked paprika. The addition of colorful vegetables like red bell pepper, fresh spinach, and tomato creates a vibrant and nutritious morning meal. Ready in under 25 minutes, this versatile dish serves four and delivers 15 grams of protein per serving while remaining completely vegan and gluten-free.

Updated on Sun, 25 Jan 2026 00:24:11 GMT
Golden tofu scramble sizzling with diced red bell pepper, onion, and fresh spinach in a skillet, topped with chopped chives and a dash of turmeric for a vibrant, plant-based breakfast. Save
Golden tofu scramble sizzling with diced red bell pepper, onion, and fresh spinach in a skillet, topped with chopped chives and a dash of turmeric for a vibrant, plant-based breakfast. | amberspill.com

Start your day with a vibrant and protein-packed Tofu Scramble. This flavorful, plant-based alternative to traditional scrambled eggs is filled with colorful vegetables and aromatic spices like turmeric and cumin. Whether you are looking for a quick weekday meal or a leisurely weekend brunch, this dish offers a hearty, satisfying experience that is both vegan and gluten-free.

Golden tofu scramble sizzling with diced red bell pepper, onion, and fresh spinach in a skillet, topped with chopped chives and a dash of turmeric for a vibrant, plant-based breakfast. Save
Golden tofu scramble sizzling with diced red bell pepper, onion, and fresh spinach in a skillet, topped with chopped chives and a dash of turmeric for a vibrant, plant-based breakfast. | amberspill.com

The combination of nutritional yeast and smoked paprika creates a savory profile, while the option of kala namak provides a surprisingly authentic eggy flavor. This scramble is not just for breakfast; it makes for a fantastic high-protein lunch as well.

Ingredients

  • Tofu: 400 g (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • Vegetables: 1 small onion (finely diced), 1 red bell pepper (diced), 100 g (1 cup) baby spinach (roughly chopped), 1 medium tomato (diced)
  • Spices & Flavorings: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp ground turmeric, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp kala namak (optional), 1/2 tsp regular salt
  • Additional: 2 tbsp nutritional yeast, 2 tbsp non-dairy milk (optional), fresh chives or parsley (for garnish)
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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Crumble the tofu into bite-sized pieces using your hands or a fork; set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add Peppers
Add red bell pepper and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Season the Mix
Stir in the crumbled tofu, turmeric, cumin, smoked paprika, black salt (if using), regular salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the tofu evenly with spices.
Step 5: Cook the Tofu
Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the tofu is heated through and slightly golden.
Step 6: Wilt the Greens
Add tomato and spinach, and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomato softens.
Step 7: Final Flourish
Stir in nutritional yeast and non-dairy milk (if using) for extra flavor and creaminess.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Adjust seasoning to taste. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Using kala namak (black salt) is the secret to achieving a truly authentic eggy flavor. Additionally, pressing the tofu before cooking helps it absorb the spices more effectively. If you prefer a creamier texture, the addition of a little non-dairy milk at the very end makes a significant difference.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra flavor and texture, you can add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini to the skillet. If baby spinach is unavailable, feel free to swap it for kale or Swiss chard. The spice levels can also be adjusted by increasing the smoked paprika or adding a pinch of chili flakes.

Serviervorschläge

This scramble is incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside whole-grain toast, fresh avocado slices, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal. It also works perfectly inside a breakfast burrito or served over a bed of quinoa.

A close-up of fluffy, turmeric-seasoned tofu scramble with tomato, spinach, and nutritional yeast, served beside a slice of whole-grain toast for a hearty vegan brunch. Save
A close-up of fluffy, turmeric-seasoned tofu scramble with tomato, spinach, and nutritional yeast, served beside a slice of whole-grain toast for a hearty vegan brunch. | amberspill.com

Enjoy this delicious and healthy Tofu Scramble as part of your morning routine. With its combination of fresh vegetables and savory spices, it is a satisfying dish that proves how easy and tasty plant-based eating can be.

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Recipe FAQs

What gives tofu scramble its eggy flavor?

Kala namak, or black salt, contains sulfur compounds that mimic the taste of eggs. Turmeric provides the familiar yellow color, while nutritional yeast adds a savory, umami richness similar to egg dishes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, tofu scramble stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of non-dairy milk to restore creaminess if needed.

What tofu texture works best?

Firm or extra-firm tofu pressed to remove excess moisture creates the ideal crumbly texture that holds its shape during cooking while absorbing the spice blend effectively.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

While it can be frozen for up to 2 months, the texture may become slightly softer after thawing. For best results, refrigerate and consume within a few days.

What are good serving suggestions?

Serve warm with toast, roasted potatoes, or fresh avocado. This dish also works well in breakfast burritos, alongside vegan bacon, or topped with hot sauce for extra spice.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Mushrooms, zucchini, kale, Swiss chard, or corn make excellent additions. Sauté hearty vegetables first before adding the tofu to ensure even cooking.

Tofu Scramble Plant-Based Breakfast

Protein-rich tofu crumbles with vegetables and spices for a satisfying breakfast.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
12 minutes
Overall Time
22 minutes


Level Easy

Cuisine Global

Portions 4 Serving Size

Diet Preferences Vegan-friendly, No Dairy, Gluten-Free

What You Need

Tofu

01 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed

Vegetables

01 1 small onion, finely diced
02 1 red bell pepper, diced
03 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
04 1 medium tomato, diced

Spices & Flavorings

01 1 tbsp olive oil
02 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
03 1/2 tsp ground cumin
04 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
05 1/4 tsp black pepper
06 1/2 tsp kala namak (black salt), optional
07 1/2 tsp regular salt

Additional

01 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
02 2 tbsp non-dairy milk
03 Fresh chives or parsley, chopped

How To Make

Step 01

Crumble the Tofu: Crumble the firm tofu into bite-sized pieces using your hands or a fork, then set aside.

Step 02

Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.

Step 03

Cook Bell Peppers: Add red bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly softened.

Step 04

Add Spices and Tofu: Stir in the crumbled tofu, turmeric, cumin, smoked paprika, black salt (if using), regular salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the tofu evenly with all spices.

Step 05

Cook Tofu Mixture: Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the tofu is heated through and develops a slight golden color.

Step 06

Add Vegetables: Add diced tomato and chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomato softens.

Step 07

Finish and Season: Stir in nutritional yeast and non-dairy milk for extra flavor and creaminess. Adjust seasoning to taste, remove from heat, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve hot.

Equipment Needed

  • Large non-stick skillet
  • Spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Details

Always check each item in your recipe for allergens. Reach out to a health expert with any concerns.
  • Contains soy (tofu)
  • Check non-dairy milk and nutritional yeast labels for possible allergens
  • Gluten-free ingredients used; verify labels to be certain

Nutrition Per Serving

Nutritional values are for reference and not a substitute for advice from a doctor.
  • Calories: 180
  • Fats: 9 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 10 grams
  • Proteins: 15 grams