Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

This Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce recipe is a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish delivers on taste and satisfaction. The crispy tofu combined with the creamy coconut sauce infused with sambal oelek and red curry paste is truly irresistible.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Tofu:
• For the Sauce:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce
• Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
• Step 2: Pan Fry the Tofu
• Step 3: Cook the Sauce
• Step 4: Combine and Serve
• How to Serve Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce
• Over Jasmine Rice
• With Roasted Vegetables
• In a Wrap
• As Part of a Buddha Bowl
• With Noodles
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• How to Perfect Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce
• Best Side Dishes for Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce
• Reheating Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce?
• Can I customize the spice level?
• What can I serve with this dish?
• How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of total time, you can whip up this flavorful dish in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over jasmine rice or alongside roasted veggies for a complete meal.
• Perfectly Spiced: Adjust the spice level to your preference by modifying the amount of sambal oelek used.
• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The coconut milk creates a luscious sauce that elevates the crispy tofu.
• Plant-Based Delight: A fantastic option for vegetarians and vegans seeking hearty meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather your tools beforehand. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan
• Large skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Paper towels or muslin cloth

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Ensures the tofu fries evenly without sticking, giving it that desirable crispiness.
• Large skillet: Perfect for cooking the sauce, allowing ample space for the ingredients to blend harmoniously.

Ingredients

For the Tofu:

• 20 to 22 ounces super firm or firm tofu (see notes for preparation details)
• 2 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• Pinch of kosher salt

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or any oil)
• 1 cup thinly sliced shallots
• 2 tablespoons minced ginger
• 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk (see notes)
• 3 to 4 tablespoons sambal oelek/ulek (adjust for spice level; see notes)
• 4 teaspoons red curry paste (see notes)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons coconut or brown sugar (see notes)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or 1/2 teaspoon table salt; adjust as needed)

For Garnish

• Scallions
• Red pepper flakes
• Toasted sesame seeds

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How to Make Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

• Remove the tofu from its package. If using super firm tofu, it should feel dense and may only require patting dry. Slice the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
• For extra-firm tofu, press it first by wrapping it in paper towels or a muslin cloth. Place the wrapped tofu on a plate and weigh it down with a stack of plates or a small pan. Let it sit for 20 minutes to remove excess moisture before slicing into cubes.

Step 2: Pan Fry the Tofu

• Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu pieces, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of salt over the tofu.
• Pan fry the tofu for about 3 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip to another side and repeat, sprinkling 1/4 teaspoon of salt each time. Continue frying on at least 4 sides of the tofu until crispy and golden. Total salt used should be about 1 teaspoon. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Sauce

• Heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a large skillet over medium to medium-low heat. Add the sliced shallots and cook, stirring frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
• Add the minced ginger and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.
• Stir in the coconut milk, sambal oelek, red curry paste, coriander (if using), salt, and sugar. Increase the heat to medium-high and let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

• Turn off the heat. Add the fried tofu to the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the sauce. Transfer to a serving dish.
• Garnish with scallions, red pepper flakes, and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with jasmine rice and a side of vegetables like roasted asparagus or blanched broccoli.

How to Serve Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Over Jasmine Rice

• Serve the spicy tofu over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the creamy sauce and balance the spiciness.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair the tofu with roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. The slight char from roasting complements the rich flavors of the coconut sauce.

In a Wrap

• Use the spicy tofu as a filling for wraps. Add fresh greens and your favorite sauce for a delicious lunch option.

As Part of a Buddha Bowl

• Create a nourishing Buddha bowl by adding grains, veggies, and avocado along with the spicy tofu. Drizzle extra coconut sauce on top for added flavor.

With Noodles

• Serve the tofu over rice noodles or soba noodles for a satisfying meal. The creamy sauce will bind everything together beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each serving with freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or basil to add a burst of freshness that balances the spice.

How to Perfect Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

To ensure your Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose the right tofu: Opt for super firm tofu for easier preparation and better texture. If using extra-firm tofu, make sure to press it well to remove excess moisture.
• Get crispy tofu: Pan fry until all sides are golden brown for maximum crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve even cooking.
• Adjust spice levels: Taste your sambal oelek before adding it to the sauce. Adjust according to your heat tolerance—more for heat, less for mildness.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shallots and ginger elevate the flavor profile of your dish significantly. Avoid pre-packaged versions if possible.
• Simmer for richness: Let your sauce simmer long enough to meld flavors together. This step enhances the overall taste of your dish.
• Experiment with garnishes: Don’t hesitate to try different garnishes like toasted sesame seeds or lime wedges to enhance presentation and flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice
   A classic pairing that absorbs the rich coconut sauce and balances spice levels.
2. Roasted Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned asparagus adds crunch and freshness, making it an ideal side.
3. Blanched Broccoli
   Simple yet effective; blanched broccoli provides color and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.
4. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers a cool contrast to the spiciness of the dish.
5. Mango Salsa
   Sweet mango salsa adds a fruity twist that wonderfully complements the savory tofu flavors.
6. Quinoa Pilaf
   Nutty quinoa pilaf is not only filling but also pairs well with creamy sauces like this one.
7. Garlic Naan Bread
   Soft naan bread can be used to scoop up the spicy tofu, making every bite enjoyable.
8. Thai Cucumber Relish
   A tangy relish adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the coconut sauce beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making spicy tofu with creamy coconut sauce, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using the wrong tofu type: Choosing regular tofu can lead to a soggy dish. Opt for super firm or extra-firm tofu for crispy results.
• Not pressing the tofu: Failing to press extra-firm tofu can cause excess moisture, resulting in a less crispy texture. Always press it before cooking.
• Overcooking the shallots: Cooking shallots too long can make them bitter. Aim for just 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
• Ignoring spice levels: Not adjusting sambal oelek can lead to an overly spicy or bland sauce. Taste and tweak based on your preference.
• Skipping garnishes: Neglecting garnishes like scallions or sesame seeds can diminish flavor and presentation. Always enhance your dish with these extras.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing it tightly.

Freezing Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

• Freeze the tofu and sauce separately if possible.
• It can be stored in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce?

Spicy tofu with creamy coconut sauce is a flavorful dish featuring crispy tofu coated in a rich coconut sauce spiced with sambal oelek and red curry paste.

Can I customize the spice level?

Yes! Adjust the amount of sambal oelek based on your preference. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve spicy tofu with jasmine rice and vegetables like roasted asparagus or broccoli for a complete meal.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The total time for preparing spicy tofu with creamy coconut sauce is about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This spicy tofu with creamy coconut sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Whether you serve it over rice or alongside fresh veggies, this dish will surely impress! Try adding different vegetables or spices for your own twist!

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