Tofu + Pepper Rice Bowls with Cheese

1.
PREHEAT THE OVEN TO 425 DEGREES
2.
RICE
Place the rice, water, and a ½ teaspoon of salt in a small pot. Bring to a boil and stir well, then turn down to low and tightly cover. Simmer on low for 16 minutes. Turn off the heat and let it sit until serving time

3.
TOFU
Open the tofu, and if it was in water, layer between a clean towel and press to squeeze out any excess. Cut into even cubes - about 1”. Place in a small bowl and toss with cornstarch, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, and a ½ teaspoon of salt and a few turns of pepper. Turn to coat well.

Place in an even layer on a baking sheet and drizzle with a teaspoon of olive oil. Place in the oven. Bake for 6 minutes then slide pan out and flip the squares over. Bake 4 minutes and flip once more, then remove

4.
ONIONS + PEPPERS
Meanwhile, heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté 2 minutes, then add in bell peppers and garlic, season with the rest of the salt and pepper and sauté until softened and golden on the edges, about 5 minutes.

Add the tomatoes and any spices left over in the bowl from the tofu. Cook for 3 minutes or until simmering.

5.
SERVING
Plate a scoop of rice, top with some of the cheese, and tomato/pepper mixture over top. Add tofu cubes and garnish with more cheese and cilantro.