Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

This Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together crispy tofu and a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe dazzles with its blend of spices and creamy texture. The combination of sambal oelek and red curry paste gives it a unique kick, making it a favorite among spice lovers. Serve it over jasmine rice, and you have a meal that’s sure to impress.

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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
• With Jasmine Rice
• Over Quinoa
• In Lettuce Wraps
• Topped on Noodles
• Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables
• As Part of a Buddha Bowl
• 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
• Can I use other types of tofu?
• How do I adjust the spice level?
• What can I serve with Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce?
• Can I make this dish vegan?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The creamy coconut sauce pairs perfectly with the spicy tofu, creating a dish full of bold flavors.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it alongside your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
• Plant-Based Delight: A great option for vegetarians and vegans looking for satisfying protein sources.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of sambal oelek to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, gather your tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large non-stick pan
• Skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large non-stick pan: This prevents the tofu from sticking while frying, ensuring crispy edges without extra oil.
• Skillet: Ideal for making the creamy coconut sauce evenly and efficiently.
• Knife & cutting board: Essential for slicing tofu and chopping ingredients accurately.

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. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of salt over the tofu. Pan fry each side for about 3 minutes until golden brown, flipping regularly and sprinkling salt as needed until all sides are crispy.

Step 3: Cook the Sauce

In another skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil over medium to medium-low heat. Add sliced shallots and cook while stirring frequently for about 4-5 minutes until softened. Next, add minced ginger; cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in coconut milk, sambal oelek, red curry paste, coriander (if using), salt, and sugar. Increase heat to medium-high; let simmer for about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Turn off heat once sauce is ready. Add fried tofu into the sauce skillet; stir well to coat evenly. Transfer contents to a serving dish and garnish with scallions, red pepper flakes, and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with jasmine rice alongside roasted asparagus or blanched broccoli.

Enjoy your delicious Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce, a dish that will surely become a favorite!

How to Serve Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

Spicy tofu with creamy coconut sauce is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Jasmine Rice

• Pair the spicy tofu with fluffy jasmine rice for a perfect balance of flavors. The rice absorbs the rich coconut sauce, making each bite delightful.

Over Quinoa

• Serve the tofu over quinoa for a nutritious twist. Quinoa adds extra protein and fiber while complementing the creamy sauce beautifully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the spicy tofu mixture into crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy option. This makes for a fun, handheld meal that’s also low in carbs.

Topped on Noodles

• Place the tofu and sauce over cooked rice noodles or soba for a hearty noodle dish. The combination of flavors creates a satisfying meal.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Serve with roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor. The sweetness of the roasted veggies pairs nicely with the spiciness of the tofu.

As Part of a Buddha Bowl

• Combine spicy tofu with grains, greens, and assorted toppings in a Buddha bowl. This colorful dish is not only healthy but also visually appealing.

How to Perfect Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

To achieve the ideal texture and flavor in your spicy tofu with creamy coconut sauce, consider these helpful tips.

• Use super firm tofu: This type requires less preparation and crisps up perfectly when pan-fried.
• Press extra-firm tofu: If using extra-firm tofu, pressing it helps remove moisture for better texture when cooking.
• Adjust spice levels: Start with less sambal oelek if you’re sensitive to heat, then gradually increase to reach your desired spice level.
• Simmer the sauce longer: Allowing the sauce to simmer enhances its flavors and thickens it for a creamier consistency.
• Experiment with garnishes: Adding scallions, sesame seeds, or red pepper flakes can elevate both presentation and taste.
• Save leftover coconut milk: Use any remaining coconut milk in smoothies or soups for added creaminess and flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

Complement your spicy tofu with creamy coconut sauce by serving it alongside these delightful side dishes.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious; steam broccoli until tender to provide a healthy crunch.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil and roast until crispy to add an earthy element.
3. Coconut Rice: Cook rice in coconut milk for an aromatic side that ties together the flavors of your dish.
4. Garlic Green Beans: Sauté green beans with garlic for a flavorful addition that balances out the spice.
5. Pickled Vegetables: Add some tanginess by serving pickled vegetables alongside; they offer a refreshing contrast.
6. Mango Salad: A light mango salad brings sweetness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the sauce.
7. Cucumber Slaw: Crisp cucumber slaw provides freshness; toss cucumbers with lime juice and chili flakes for zing.
8. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness that harmonizes well with spiciness from the tofu.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong tofu: Not all tofu is created equal. Super firm tofu is best for this recipe as it holds its shape and crisps well. Extra-firm tofu should be pressed to remove excess moisture.
• Skipping the sauce simmering step: Failing to let the sauce simmer can result in a bland flavor. Take time to allow the ingredients to meld together for a richer taste.
• Overcrowding the pan: If you add too many tofu cubes at once, they won’t get crispy. Fry in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Ignoring spice adjustments: Different brands of sambal oelek can vary in heat. Always taste your ingredients and adjust for your preference before adding them to the dish.
• Not garnishing: Skipping the optional garnishes like scallions or sesame seeds can make your dish look less appealing and miss out on extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep tofu and sauce separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce.

Can I use other types of tofu?

Yes, while super firm is recommended, you can use extra-firm tofu but press it first to remove moisture.

How do I adjust the spice level?

Adjust the amount of sambal oelek according to your spice preference. Start with less and add more as needed.

What can I serve with Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce?

This dish pairs well with jasmine rice and steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! The recipe is already vegan-friendly since it uses plant-based ingredients throughout.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce is a delightful dish that balances heat and creaminess perfectly. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or adjust spice levels according to taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy a flavorful meal that caters to various dietary preferences!

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