- Cynthia Erivo’s go-to vegan dinner is herb-rubbed tofu with jasmine rice.
- Erivo enjoys a variety of plant-based dishes, from vegan ramen to tempura mushrooms.
- Tofu is her favorite protein, offering fiber, iron and flavor versatility in a vegan diet.
Just like her Wicked co-star Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo is a long-time vegan. And on a recent episode of the podcast Dish, Erivo shared her favorite vegan dishes and ingredients, including the go-to dinner that she loves making.
Before we get into her tried-and-true evening meal, she confirms that she loves an array of plant-based cuisine. From healthy snacks like fruit, nuts and potato chips to tempura mushrooms and vegan ramen, Erivo enjoys classic and creative vegan dishes in her everyday life.
“There are ways to use different foods as substitutes and create new things,” Erivo notes on the wave of modern day vegan meals. “Before, it was interesting, but now it’s so much more fun.”
And it’s not surprising to learn that Erivo loves tofu, a protein beloved by many vegan and vegetarian eaters. In fact, the Tony Awards host’s favorite nutritious dinner stars tofu as the main course. She said she loves to prepare it with an herb rub, “almost like a steak.” She pairs her savory tofu with jasmine rice. A serving of rice makes a meal more filling, and it can aid in healthy digestion and heightened energy. For a pop of color, a simple spinach salad or even a side of broccoli would be terrific with Erivo’s easy dinner.
Tofu is a great source of fiber as well as protein, calcium and iron—three nutrients that can be lacking if not prioritized in a plant-based diet. Not to mention tofu is an incredible absorber of all different flavors, from honey-chipotle to balsamic butter. We’re *extra-firm* believers that all eating patterns should enjoy more plant-based protein like tofu, so it’s great to hear Erivo giving it an enthusiastic endorsement.
We’re fans of Erivo in general, but also fans of the way she highlights a slew of nutrients in her diet. A vegan eating pattern can provide health benefits like improving blood sugar levels, heart health and decreasing cancer risk. But it can be difficult to manage for those just starting, so talk to a health care provider or registered dietitian for personalized advice.
