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Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

Irresistible Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Recipe

This Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce is a quick, flavorful dinner option, combining crispy tofu with a rich coconut sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu
  • 1 block Tofu Use super firm or firm tofu for the best results.
  • 3 tablespoons Canola/Veg Oil Substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust according to taste.
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil Olive oil can be a substitute.
  • 2 medium Shallots Can be replaced with yellow onion.
  • 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger Fresh is best; powdered works in a pinch.
  • 1 can Canned Coconut Milk Use full-fat for richness; light coconut milk is a lighter option.
  • 1 tablespoon Sambal Oelek Adjust for heat preference; swap with Sriracha if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Curry Paste Green curry paste can be used for a different profile.
  • 1 tablespoon Coconut/Brown Sugar Any granular sugar can be a quick substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Omit if preferring simplicity.
For Garnishing
  • 2 tablespoons Scallions Green onions can be an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
  • 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Kitchen towel
  • Heavy Object
  • Airtight Container

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by pressing super firm or firm tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu in a kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. Cut the tofu into ¾ to 1-inch cubes.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough canola or vegetable oil to cover the bottom. Once the oil is shimmering, gently add the tofu cubes and fry for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  3. In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced ginger and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Add 1 can of coconut milk, sambal oelek, red curry paste, coconut sugar, and ground coriander to the sautéed shallots and ginger. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Carefully add the crispy fried tofu into the sauce, gently folding to coat each cube. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
  6. Once combined, remove from heat. Plate and garnish with scallions, red pepper flakes, and toasted sesame seeds. Serve with jasmine rice or your favorite side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 15gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Press your tofu well, avoid overcrowding the pan, and taste the sauce before adding tofu for the best results.

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