Introduction

This Tofu in Creamy Coconut Sauce is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines crispy tofu with a rich, spicy coconut sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, it pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or can be enjoyed in wraps for a quick meal.

A bowl filled with a creamy orange sauce, topped with several golden-brown grilled tofu cubes that have light char marks and a slightly crispy texture. Green herbs and sliced green onions are sprinkled over the tofu, adding a fresh pop of color. A bright green lime wedge rests on the side of the bowl. The bowl itself is white, placed on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and fresh look. The overall colors are warm with a touch of green for contrast, and the textures show both creamy and firm elements. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

14 oz firm tofu, pressed to remove excess moisture
2 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 piece red bell pepper, diced
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp chili garlic sauce (adjust for spice preference)
1 tsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground cumin (optional)
1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp maple syrup
1 can full-fat coconut milk
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Lime (optional, for squeezing)
Cornstarch (for coating tofu, quantity as needed)

Instructions

Step 1: Press the firm tofu for 20–30 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into 1-inch cubes and toss them in cornstarch until lightly coated.
Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tofu cubes until golden brown on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the diced red bell pepper and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
Step 4: Stir in the tomato paste, chili garlic sauce, soy sauce, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute to let the spices bloom.
Step 5: Pour in the coconut milk and add the maple syrup. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and simmer everything together for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors and heat through.
Step 7: Serve the tofu with creamy coconut sauce garnished with chopped green onions and a squeeze of lime juice if desired. Enjoy it hot over jasmine rice or wrapped in flatbreads.

Tips & Variations

Pressing tofu well is key for achieving a crispy texture. Use a tofu press or wrap the tofu in a clean towel and place a heavy object on top.
Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili garlic sauce and chili flakes according to your heat preference.
For a nutty flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving.
Use lite coconut milk for a lighter sauce, but full-fat coconut milk gives a richer, creamier texture.
Omit ground cumin if you prefer a simpler spice profile.

Storage

Store leftover tofu in creamy coconut sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen it while reheating.

How to Serve

A black bowl filled with a creamy orange sauce as the base layer, topped with about fifteen golden-brown grilled tofu cubes arranged close together, each showing light char marks and a slightly crispy texture. The tofu cubes are scattered with finely chopped fresh green herbs, mainly cilantro and scallion slices, adding vibrant green color on top. On the left side of the bowl’s rim, a fresh lime wedge with a bright green and juicy interior rests partially submerged in the sauce. The background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use soft tofu instead of firm tofu?

Firm tofu is best for this recipe because it holds its shape and crisps up well. Soft tofu is too delicate and may break apart during cooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This dish can be gluten-free if you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce, which contains wheat.