Name: Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce for Quick Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 medium White Onion (Can substitute with red onion or shallots.); 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic is best; avoid powdered.); 1 medium Red Chilli (Use green chili for a different heat profile.); 1 inch Ginger (Use fresh or alternatives like galangal or lemongrass.); 1 can Coconut Milk (Full-fat coconut milk recommended for best flavor.); 1 cup Vegetable Stock (Use homemade stock or a good-quality stock cube.); 1 medium Lime (Fresh lime zest and juice are crucial for flavor.); 2 tablespoons Light Soy Sauce (Dark soy sauce can alter dish color.); 1 teaspoon Sugar (Adjust amount to taste if needed.); 14 ounces Extra Firm Tofu (Use silken tofu cautiously as it breaks easily.); 1 cup Beansprouts (Optional; replace with edamame, mushrooms, or sliced aubergine.); Garnish (Spring Onions, Chives, Dill) (Chives and dill are optional, but spring onions add a nice finish.); 1 tablespoon Chilli Oil (Optional, but enhances flavor.)

The aroma of garlic and ginger wafts through the kitchen as I feverishly toss together ingredients for my latest weeknight masterpiece. Enter Spicy Coconut Tofu with Sticky Rice—your soon-to-be favorite quick meal that bursts with flavor and vibrant colors. In just 30 minutes, this vegan and gluten-free delight transforms simple tofu into a creamy sensation enveloped in luscious coconut milk, zesty lime, and a tantalizing kick of chili. Not only does it come together in a single pan, minimizing cleanup, but it also offers a comforting escape from the mundane routine of fast food. With its rich texture and exciting flavors, who could resist the temptation to whip this up for dinner? Ready to dive into a bowl of this enticing dish? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this dish a must-try?

Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can serve a flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

One-Pan Wonder: This dish minimizes clean-up, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meal instead of scrubbing pots and pans.

Vegan Delight: Packed with creamy coconut milk and nutritious tofu, it’s a filling dish that caters to vegan and gluten-free diets.

Flavor Explosion: The fusion of garlic, ginger, and lime creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the humble tofu into a culinary masterpiece.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with vegetables like edamame or mushrooms for varied textures, ensuring every bite is delightful. If you love quick and spicy meals, you might also enjoy our Sweet Spicy Garlic pasta or Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Spicy for even more flavor packed options!

Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Ingredients

• Get ready to whip up a delicious meal!

For the Sauce

White Onion – Base flavor ingredient for aromatic depth. Can substitute with red onion or shallots.
Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor. Fresh garlic is best; avoid powdered.
Red Chilli – Adds spice. Use green chili for a different heat profile.
Ginger – Essential for fresh flavor. Do not substitute with ground ginger; use fresh or alternatives like galangal or lemongrass.
Coconut Milk – Base sauce ingredient offering creaminess. Full-fat coconut milk recommended for best flavor.
Vegetable Stock – Adds liquid base and flavor. Use homemade stock or a good-quality stock cube.
Lime – Provides freshness and acidity. Fresh lime zest and juice are crucial for flavor.
Light Soy Sauce – Adds salty seasoning. Dark soy sauce can be used but will alter dish color.
Sugar – Balances flavor. Adjust amount to taste if needed.

For the Tofu

Extra Firm Tofu – Main protein source. Use silken tofu cautiously as it breaks easily.
Beansprouts – Offers crunch and texture. Optional; replace with edamame, mushrooms, or sliced aubergine if preferred.

For Garnish

Garnish (Spring Onions, Chives, Dill) – Fresh herbs for topping. Chives and dill are optional, but spring onions add a nice finish.
Chilli Oil – For extra spice once served. Optional, but enhances flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large frying pan over medium-low heat, add a splash of oil and sauté chopped white onion, minced garlic, sliced red chili, and grated ginger for about 10 minutes. Stir frequently until the onions are translucent and fragrant, creating a savory base for your Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce.

Step 2: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
Next, stir in a can of full-fat coconut milk, vegetable stock, lime zest, lime juice, light soy sauce, and a touch of sugar into the pan. Increase the heat to medium and mix everything thoroughly until the sauce is well combined and bubbling slightly, approximately 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Tofu
Slice the extra firm tofu in half lengthwise, then make diagonal cuts to create hasselback slabs. This method increases the surface area for absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce. Gently pat the tofu slabs dry to remove any excess moisture for better texture during cooking.

Step 4: Simmer the Tofu
Add the beansprouts to the simmering sauce, then carefully nestle the prepared tofu slabs into the pan. Cover with a lid and let simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the tofu to soak up the creamy sauce before uncovering. Cook for an additional 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and the tofu is heated through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once thickened, finish the dish by topping it with sliced spring onions, optional chives and dill, and a drizzle of chili oil for an added kick. This brightens up the Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce, giving it that final burst of flavor.

Step 6: Pair with Rice
Serve your delicious Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce alongside warm sticky rice or noodles for a complete meal. The creamy coconut sauce pairs beautifully with the rice, ensuring every bite is a flavor-packed delight.

How to Store and Freeze Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

Fridge: Store leftover Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: You can freeze the tofu separately from the sauce for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat leftovers gently in a microwave, leaving the lid ajar to let steam escape. Stir well to ensure even warming.

Storage Tip: To maintain the dish’s best texture, it’s recommended to reheat only what you plan to eat in one sitting; avoid reheating multiple times.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Coconut Tofu slabs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor flavorful dinners with less fuss! You can chop the aromatic ingredients—onion, garlic, and ginger—up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh. Additionally, the sauce can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just reheat gently on the stove before serving. To maintain the quality of the tofu, slice and marinate it in the sauce overnight for enhanced flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, simmer the tofu and sauce together as instructed, top with herbs, and serve with sticky rice or noodles for a hassle-free, mouthwatering meal that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made!

Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own with these fun and flavorful twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk with unsweetened almond or cashew milk for a lighter version. Just remember to adjust spices to boost flavor.
Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or lentils for an extra protein punch. Both options blend well, enhancing the dish’s texture and making it even heartier.
Spicy Twist: If you crave even more heat, toss in sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha. This will undoubtedly add an exciting zing, making each bite unforgettable.
Vegetable Medley: Swap out beansprouts for a colorful mix of bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. Adding diverse veggies not only boosts nutrition but also adds a delightful crunch.
Curry Flavor: Incorporate a tablespoon of curry powder into the sauce for a fragrant twist. This variant brings an aromatic depth that elevates the classic flavor profile beautifully.
Rice Alternatives: Serve your dish with quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of sticky rice for a low-carb option. Just as satisfying, these alternatives complement the creamy sauce perfectly.
Herb Infusion: Experiment by adding fresh basil or cilantro as a garnish. These herbs create a fresh, vibrant note that brightens the entire dish.

For more scrumptious recipes, check out our beloved Shrimp Rice Bowls Spicy or try the fiery Chicken Ramen Spicy for a delightful weeknight treat. Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

Choose the Right Tofu: Use extra firm tofu for a perfect texture. Silken tofu can break apart easily, leading to a messy dish.
Control the Heat: When adding red chili, adjust the quantity based on your spice preference. Start with less and add more if desired.
Don’t Rush Aromatics: Sauté the garlic and ginger over low heat. This brings out their flavors and prevents them from burning, enhancing the sauce.
Perfect Coconut Milk: Opt for full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest sauce. Light versions may result in a thinner consistency.
Adjusting Flavor: Taste the sauce before adding sugar and soy sauce. This ensures a well-balanced flavor that complements the dish without overpowering it.
Garnish Wisely: Sprinkling fresh herbs like spring onions or dill right before serving gives a burst of freshness to the Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce.

What to Serve with Spicy Coconut Tofu

Transform your Spicy Coconut Tofu into a complete meal that delights the senses and warms the heart.

Sticky Rice: This classic pairing absorbs the creamy coconut sauce, creating a blissful harmony of flavors with every bite.
Steamed Broccoli: The crisp texture and slight bitterness contrast beautifully with the rich, sweet sauce, making your meal more vibrant.
Crispy Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a zesty dressing adds a refreshing crunch, lifting the heaviness of the coconut.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness provides a counterbalance to the spiciness, enriching the overall flavor experience.
Cucumber Salad: Thinly sliced cucumbers with a tangy vinegar dressing offer cooling relief to the dish’s warmth, brightening the meal.
Lemon-Lime Sparkler: Refreshing beverages with citrus notes enhance the zesty lime in the tofu, adding a fizzy twist to your dinner.
Mango Sorbet: A light, fruity dessert rounds off the meal with its sweetness, cleansing the palate after the bold flavors of the main dish.
Thai Iced Tea: With its creamy milk and subtle spices, this drink complements the dish’s flavors and provides a sweet and comforting finish.

Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of tofu should I use for this dish?
Absolutely! Using extra firm tofu is key for achieving a satisfying texture. Silken tofu can break easily, making it less ideal for this recipe. If you favor a firmer bite, look for packages marked as “extra firm” in your local grocery store.

How should I store leftovers of the Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce?
After your meal, let the leftover Spicy Tofu cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently!

Can I freeze the Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the tofu separately from the sauce for up to 1 month. To do so, let the tofu cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat in the pan with the sauce.

What can I do if my sauce turns out too thin?
If your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, don’t worry! Simply let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes, which will allow excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a little cornstarch with water to create a slurry and gradually stir that into the sauce while it simmers. This will help thicken it nicely!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Great question! The Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce is vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs. Just be sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce to keep the recipe compliant for gluten-sensitive individuals. Always check labels for any allergens, especially if serving to others.

Can I add other vegetables to the Spicy Tofu dish?
Very much so! You can certainly get creative with the vegetables. Feel free to replace beansprouts with options like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even broccoli. Adding these not only enhances the dish’s nutrition but also brings additional flavors and textures, making every bite even more exciting!