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Silky Tofu With Coconut Sauce Recipe

Silky Tofu With Coconut Sauce Recipe


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4.6 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 3 1x

Description

Spicy tofu with creamy coconut sauce delivers bold Asian-inspired flavors in a quick weeknight meal. Home cooks can easily craft this protein-packed dish with simple ingredients and minimal preparation time.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 block (14 oz/400g) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 3 tbsps vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsps cornstarch
  • 2 tbsps red curry paste (adjust for spice level)
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz/400ml) coconut milk (full-fat or light)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • Fresh cilantro or basil, chopped
  • Lime wedges
  • Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Instructions

  1. Tofu Preparation: Meticulously remove moisture from tofu block using clean kitchen towels, creating an ideal surface for achieving a crispy exterior.
  2. Searing Process: Heat non-stick skillet over medium-high temperature, coating pan with a thin vegetable oil layer to generate a perfect golden crust; gently coat tofu cubes with cornstarch and salt for enhanced texture and seasoning.
  3. Browning Technique: Strategically place tofu cubes in hot pan, ensuring sufficient spacing to promote uniform caramelization; rotate pieces systematically to develop a rich, amber-colored crisp exterior that promises a delightful crunch.
  4. Oil Management: Transfer perfectly seared tofu to paper towel-lined plate, allowing excess oil to drain and maintaining the desired crispy texture.
  5. Coconut Sauce Creation: Combine coconut milk, chili paste, garlic, and ginger in a separate saucepan, whisking ingredients to create a smooth, vibrant sauce with balanced heat and creaminess.
  6. Final Assembly: Gently drizzle warm coconut sauce over crispy tofu cubes, garnishing with fresh cilantro and green onions to elevate visual appeal and introduce fresh herbal notes.

Notes

  • Moisture Management: Thoroughly blot tofu to remove excess water, which prevents soggy texture and ensures crispy, golden-brown edges during cooking.
  • Uniform Cutting: Slice tofu into consistent 1-inch cubes to guarantee even cooking and professional-looking presentation on the plate.
  • Cornstarch Coating Technique: Gently tumble tofu in cornstarch and salt to create a light, protective layer that enhances crispiness and helps seal in flavor.
  • Heat Control Essential: Maintain medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve perfectly crisp exterior while keeping the tofu’s interior soft and tender.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3
  • Calories: 540
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 36 g
  • Saturated Fat: 26 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 16 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg