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Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce


  • Author: Dulcia
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce is a delightful fusion of crispy tofu cubes coated in a rich, aromatic coconut curry sauce. The balance of heat from the sambal oelek and the creamy, smooth texture of coconut milk creates a vibrant dish that is both satisfying and comforting. Perfect for those who love bold flavors, this dish pairs beautifully with fluffy jasmine rice and a side of fresh vegetables like roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli.


Ingredients

Scale

Tofu:
20 to 22 ounces super firm or firm tofu
2 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil (any neutral oil)
Pinch of kosher salt
Sauce:
2 tablespoons coconut oil (or sub any oil)
1 cup thinly sliced shallots
2 tablespoons minced ginger
1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
3 to 4 tablespoons sambal oelek (adjust to spice preference)
4 teaspoons red curry paste
1 ½ teaspoons coconut or brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
1 teaspoon (4g) Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or ½ teaspoon table salt, adjust as needed)


Instructions

Prepare Tofu:
Drain the tofu and pat it dry if necessary. Slice it into 1-inch cubes.
Pan Fry Tofu: 2. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Place the tofu cubes in the pan, working in batches if needed. Sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of salt over the tofu. 3. Fry the tofu until golden on each side, flipping as necessary. Sprinkle additional salt (about ¼ teaspoon per flip) until all sides are fried and you’ve used 1 teaspoon of salt. Remove tofu from heat.
Cook the Sauce: 4. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil over medium heat. Add the shallots and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until soft. 5. Stir in the minced ginger and cook for about 30 seconds. 6. Pour in the coconut milk, sambal oelek, red curry paste, coriander (if using), salt, and sugar. Increase heat to medium-high and let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. 7. Turn off the heat and stir in the fried tofu, ensuring each piece is coated in the sauce.
Serving: 8. Serve the tofu with jasmine rice and your choice of vegetables, such as roasted asparagus or blanched broccoli. Garnish with scallions, red pepper flakes, and toasted sesame seeds.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 280