If you have been searching for a dish that packs bold flavors, rich textures, and a warming kick, look no further than this Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Recipe. It combines the crispy, golden goodness of tofu with a luscious coconut curry sauce that balances heat, sweetness, and tang perfectly. Every spoonful feels like a comforting hug, with fresh lime and cilantro adding that bright finish. Whether you’re a longtime tofu lover or new to plant-based dinners, this recipe is a total game changer for weeknight meals and special occasions alike.

Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a starring role in creating the unforgettable taste, texture, and color that makes Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Recipe so irresistible. From the extra-firm tofu that crisps up beautifully to the fragrant spices and creamy coconut milk, every element counts.

14 oz extra-firm tofu: Pressed and cubed for the perfect crispy texture in the skillet.
2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps give the tofu a golden, crunchy crust that holds up well in the sauce.
2 tablespoons neutral oil: Use avocado or vegetable oil to get a high-heat sear without overpowering the dish.
1 small onion: Thinly sliced to add natural sweetness and softness.
2 cloves garlic: Minced garlic brings a punch of savory depth.
1 tablespoon fresh ginger: Grated for that sharp, aromatic bite that brightens every spoonful.
1 tablespoon red curry paste: The heart of the spicy curry flavor with warming notes and a bit of complexity.
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk: Creates the creamy, dreamy sauce that envelopes the tofu.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds umami richness and balances the sweetness.
1 teaspoon maple syrup or brown sugar: Just a touch for mild sweetness to round out the heat.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For anyone wanting an extra kick of spice.
Juice of 1/2 lime: Provides a fresh, zesty finish to the sauce.
Chopped fresh cilantro & lime wedges: Perfect garnishes to brighten and freshen the dish when serving.

How to Make Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

First, gently pat your extra-firm tofu dry to remove any excess moisture. Cut the block into 1-inch cubes, then toss them evenly with cornstarch. This step is the secret to achieving that amazing golden, crisp crust once you cook them. The cornstarch acts like a little crispy armor that seals in moisture and gives the tofu the best texture.

Step 2: Crisp the Tofu

Heat your neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the tofu cubes and let them cook unbothered for a few minutes until they develop a gorgeous golden crust. Flip to get all sides crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes total. Once done, remove the tofu to a plate and set aside. This crispy base makes all the difference once it meets the luscious sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, drop in your thinly sliced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft—about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, letting them cook just until fragrant, which takes roughly 1 minute. This fragrant mix forms a flavor-packed foundation for your curry sauce.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in the red curry paste and let it toast gently with the aromatics for about 1 minute to release all those lovely spices. Pour in the full-fat coconut milk, soy sauce, and maple syrup or brown sugar, then sprinkle in red pepper flakes if you love that extra fiery touch. Stir everything together well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken and its flavors to meld for 5 to 6 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the crispy tofu cubes to the skillet, tossing gently to ensure every bite is coated with the creamy, spicy coconut sauce. Let it simmer another 2 minutes so the tofu can soak up all that amazing flavor. Finally, squeeze in the juice of half a lime for a bright, tangy lift. Give it a last stir, and your dish is ready to serve.

How to Serve Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped cilantro scattered on top brings a fragrant, herbal brightness that perfectly complements the rich sauce. Lime wedges on the side invite everyone to add a splash of zesty freshness just before digging in. These simple garnishes make the dish feel vibrant and inviting.

Side Dishes

Serve your Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Recipe over a bed of steamed jasmine rice to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. Rice noodles or fluffy quinoa are fantastic alternatives if you want to mix things up or keep things gluten-free. Tossing in sautéed bell peppers or fresh spinach is an easy way to add color and nutrition for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the tofu and sauce in individual shallow bowls, then top with cilantro and a lime wedge for a pop of color. You could also spoon this curry over rice paper wraps with shredded veggies for a fun hand-held option that’s perfect for gatherings. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with toasted coconut flakes or crushed peanuts to add texture and an extra layer of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tofu will absorb more sauce flavor over time, making leftovers taste even more vibrant and comforting.

Freezing

You can freeze this tofu dish, but for the best texture, freeze the sauce separately and add freshly cooked tofu when you reheat. If freezing together, store in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the sauce gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, then add tofu cubes to warm through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the tofu a bit rubbery. A gentle stovetop reheating retains the sauce’s creaminess and tofu’s texture beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use silken tofu instead of extra-firm tofu?

Extra-firm tofu is essential for this recipe because it holds its shape and crisps up beautifully; silken tofu is too delicate and will not achieve the desired texture.

How spicy is this dish with red curry paste and red pepper flakes?

The dish offers a moderate heat level primarily from the red curry paste. You can adjust the spice by omitting the red pepper flakes for a milder version or increasing them for extra heat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, but be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the dish entirely gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or snap peas make wonderful additions. Add them after sautéing the onions so they stay crisp-tender and vibrant.

What can I serve this with besides rice?

This dish is fantastic over rice noodles, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It also works well wrapped in lettuce leaves for a fresh, light meal.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Recipe is a triumph of flavor and texture that’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s wonderfully versatile, effortlessly vegan, and remarkably comforting. I encourage you to give it a try and watch how it transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal that everyone will love.

Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 32 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

This Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce is a flavorful vegan main course featuring crispy tofu cubes cooked in a rich and aromatic coconut curry sauce. Infused with red curry paste, garlic, ginger, and a hint of lime, this dish offers the perfect balance of heat and creaminess. It’s quick to prepare and perfect served over rice or noodles for a satisfying plant-based meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu

14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons neutral oil (like avocado or vegetable oil)

Sauce and Aromatics

1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon red curry paste
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon maple syrup or brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Juice of 1/2 lime
Chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu: Pat the tofu dry with paper towels and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Toss the tofu cubes with the cornstarch until they are evenly coated. This step helps to achieve a crispy texture when cooked.
Cook the Tofu: Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated tofu cubes and cook them, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for an additional minute, releasing their fragrant aromas.
Add Curry Paste: Stir in the red curry paste, cooking it for 1 minute to deepen the flavors and allow the spices to become fragrant.
Make the Sauce: Pour in the full-fat coconut milk, add soy sauce, maple syrup (or brown sugar), and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine all ingredients and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Thicken the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 to 6 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and thicken to a creamy consistency.
Combine Tofu with Sauce: Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and toss gently to coat all pieces with the coconut curry sauce. Simmer everything together for 2 more minutes to meld the flavors.
Finish with Lime: Stir in the lime juice to add a fresh, tangy brightness to the dish.
Serve: Serve the spicy tofu hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, rice noodles, or quinoa.

Notes

To reduce spiciness, omit or lessen the amount of red pepper flakes.
For a more complete meal, serve over jasmine rice, rice noodles, or quinoa.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach to increase nutritional value and color.
Pressing tofu beforehand is essential to remove excess moisture for better crispiness.
You can substitute red curry paste with yellow curry paste for a milder flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired