Beyond the tofu scramble

Behold, the tofu scramble: Tiny chunks of tofu, sauteed with seasoning and chopped veggies until everything has been lumped and mushed together into a crumbly mess.

I’ve been a vegetarian and staunch tofu defender for nearly 20 years and even I don’t find this dish very appealing.

But, too often, it’s all vegetarians and vegans can find at the brunch table—at least when it comes to animal-free order options.

As a self-proclaimed “bad vegetarian,” I have plenty of choices. It’s easy to order eggs of any variety (poached, omelet, fried, whatever), and I don’t worry if my pancakes or French toast were made with dairy.

But many of my better vegan friends have a rougher go of it when it comes to heading out for a leisurely midday meal.

Thankfully, there are some pretty amazing vegan-friendly dishes in the area. And, OK fine, one of them actually is a tofu scramble.

If you’re going to order the ubiquitous vegetarian menu item, at least get it from a place that knows how to do it right. Fox & Goose Public House (1001 R Street) offers three variations—curry, pesto and fresh spinach, the latter of which includes optional goat cheese. Better yet, the English-style pub also has a “build-your-own” option. The meal, served with country potatoes and a choice of crumpet, English muffin or toast is hearty, flavorful and appealing to the eye. Not a weird bit of texture on the plate—this is how tofu scrambles should be done. Bonus: Diners can also order a side of vegan tempeh “bacon.”

With its emphasis on beans and tortillas, Mexican food can make for a tasty brunch. Oak Park Brewing Co.’s (3514 Broadway) weekend brunch menu goes big with its breakfast burrito, which can be ordered with Soyrizo (a vegan take on chorizo) and eggs. Skip the latter—along with the cheese and chile crema if you want to make it vegan. Don’t worry, just ask for an extra serving of the roasted tomato salsa to keep the flavor satisfying.

For those who don’t mind straying from more traditional breakfast items, Veg Cafe & Bar (2431 J Street) has a small but mighty menu of Indian-inspired dishes including its savory potato hash made with fried potatoes, peppers and tomato chutney. Or, get the savory breakfast crepe made with roasted veggies and a panang curry.

Orphan Breakfast House (3440 C Street) also has a great nontraditional option in its Zen Breakfast. Skip the eggs and just ask your server to double up on the brown rice and tofu that’s grilled in the restaurant’s housemade ginger soy sauce. The restaurant also offers sides of steamed spinach and grilled zucchini if you want to add some greenery to your plate.

Because, you know, vegetables.