Spicy Tofu Creamy Coconut (Print Version)
Tofu is pan fried until golden then coated in a creamy coconut sauce enhanced with spice and aromatics.
# Ingredients:
→ Tofu
01 -
10 to 20 ounces extra-firm or firm tofu, drained
02 -
2 tablespoons canola oil or other neutral oil
03 -
Kosher salt, to taste
→ Creamy Coconut Sauce
04 -
2 tablespoons coconut oil, or substitute with neutral oil
05 -
1 cup thinly sliced shallots
06 -
1 1/2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
07 -
1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
08 -
2 to 3 tablespoons sambal oelek, adjust for desired heat
09 -
1 1/2 tablespoons red curry paste
10 -
1 1/2 to 3 teaspoons coconut sugar or brown sugar, to taste
11 -
1 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
12 -
1/2 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt, or 1/4 teaspoon table salt; adjust as needed
→ Optional Garnishes
13 -
Sliced scallions
14 -
Red pepper flakes
15 -
Toasted sesame seeds
# Steps:
01 -
Remove tofu from the package, press gently with a towel to eliminate any excess moisture, and cut into 3/4 to 1-inch cubes.
02 -
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Season lightly with kosher salt. Pan-fry until the underside is golden brown, about 3 minutes, then turn to another side and fry again until golden. Repeat for at least 2 sides, seasoning after turning. Transfer browned tofu pieces to a plate. Add more oil if the pan becomes dry.
03 -
In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons coconut oil over medium to medium-low heat. Add sliced shallots and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft. Stir in minced ginger and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
04 -
Add coconut milk, sambal oelek, red curry paste, sugar, coriander if using, and salt. Stir to thoroughly combine ingredients. Increase heat to medium-high and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes.
05 -
Turn off the heat and return the pan-fried tofu to the skillet. Gently stir to coat tofu with sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary with additional salt or sugar. Transfer to a serving dish.
06 -
Top with sliced scallions, red pepper flakes, and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve with jasmine rice and roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli.
# Notes:
01 -
For the crispiest texture, pan-fry multiple sides of each tofu cube until golden brown. Adjust spice and sweetness levels in the sauce to suit individual taste preferences.