Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce is a delicious and healthy dish that perfectly balances heat and creaminess. Crispy tofu cubes are tossed in a rich, flavorful coconut sauce that combines savory spices with a hint of sweetness. This dish is great for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep option that will leave you satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and flavorful: The tofu provides a plant-based protein source, while the coconut sauce adds rich flavor and healthy fats.
• Customizable: You can adjust the level of spice or add extra vegetables to suit your taste.
• Vegan and gluten-free: Suitable for a variety of dietary preferences and restrictions.
• Perfect balance of flavors: The creamy coconut sauce mellows out the spiciness, creating a harmonious taste experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Tofu (firm or extra firm)
• Coconut milk
• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• Lime juice
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, minced
• Red curry paste
• Chili flakes (optional, for extra spice)
• Vegetable oil
• Sugar or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut it into bite-sized cubes.
2. Cook the tofu: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the tofu cubes until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the coconut sauce: In the same pan, add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in red curry paste and cook for another minute.
4. Add liquids: Pour in coconut milk, soy sauce, and lime juice. Stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Add tofu to sauce: Return the tofu to the pan and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the tofu to absorb the flavors.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and chili flakes (if using). Serve over steamed rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15-20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable additions: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli to the dish for extra nutrition and color.
• Protein options: You can replace tofu with tempeh, seitan, or even chickpeas for a different protein source.
• Spice level: Adjust the heat by using more or less red curry paste and chili flakes.
• Sweetness: Add a teaspoon of sugar or maple syrup to balance the spice with a touch of sweetness.
• Herbs: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, try garnishing with fresh basil or mint for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the tofu and sauce in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, or use a microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Freezing: While tofu doesn’t freeze as well after being cooked, the coconut sauce can be frozen separately in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use light coconut milk instead of regular coconut milk?

Yes, light coconut milk can be used if you prefer a lighter sauce, but the texture will be less creamy.

2. Can I bake the tofu instead of frying it?

Absolutely! You can bake the tofu at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it’s crispy.

3. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. You can store it in individual containers with rice or noodles for easy lunches or dinners.

4. How spicy is this dish?

The spiciness depends on how much red curry paste and chili flakes you use. You can adjust the heat to your liking.

5. Can I make this recipe oil-free?

Yes, you can bake or air fry the tofu instead of frying it in oil. You can also sauté the garlic and ginger in a bit of water instead of oil.

6. Can I substitute tofu with another protein?

Yes, tempeh, seitan, or chickpeas work well as tofu alternatives in this dish.

7. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

8. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas to make it even more nutritious.

9. What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is perfect served over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles. You can also pair it with a side of stir-fried vegetables.

10. Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to serve more people. Just make sure to use a larger pan to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. The combination of crispy tofu and a rich coconut sauce creates a perfect balance of spice and creaminess. Whether you’re looking for a plant-based option, a gluten-free meal, or something customizable, this recipe has it all. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and make it your own!

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