Description
Sizzling spicy tofu with creamy coconut sauce brings Asian-inspired flavors to home kitchens. Delicate tofu cubes swim in rich, spiced coconut milk, creating a balanced dish that satisfies with complex layers of heat and comfort.
Ingredients
Scale
- 20 to 22 oz (566 to 624 g) super firm or firm tofu
- 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
- 1 cup thinly sliced shallots
- 3 to 4 tbsps sambal oelek
- 4 tsp red curry paste
- 2 tbsps minced ginger
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 ½ tsp coconut or brown sugar
- 1 tsp Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or ½ tsp table salt)
- 2 tbsps canola or vegetable oil
- 2 tbsps coconut oil
- Pinch of kosher salt
Instructions
- Tofu Preparation: Drain and blot tofu thoroughly, then slice into uniform cubes for consistent cooking and optimal texture.
- Tofu Searing: Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, carefully arranging tofu cubes to achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior without overcrowding the pan.
- Sauce Foundation: In a separate skillet, sauté shallots and ginger in coconut oil until fragrant, creating an aromatic base for the creamy coconut sauce.
- Sauce Development: Whisk together coconut milk, sambal oelek, red curry paste, coriander, salt, and sugar, allowing the mixture to simmer and reduce, intensifying the flavor profile and creating a velvety consistency.
- Tofu Integration: Fold the crispy tofu into the spicy coconut sauce, ensuring each cube is lavishly coated and absorbs the rich, complex flavors.
- Plating and Garnish: Serve the tofu over jasmine rice, accompanied by roasted vegetables, and finish with a sprinkle of sliced scallions, red pepper flakes, and toasted sesame seeds to elevate the dish’s visual and gustatory appeal.
Notes
- Maximize Tofu Texture: Thoroughly drain and pat dry tofu to achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in flavor and prevents sogginess.
- Sizzle with Precision: Use a non-stick skillet and medium-high heat to create the perfect searing surface for even, crisp tofu browning.
- Sauce Harmony: Balance spicy and creamy elements by carefully blending coconut milk, sambal oelek, and red curry paste for a complex, vibrant flavor profile.
- Garnish for Impact: Elevate the dish with fresh scallions, red pepper flakes, and toasted sesame seeds to add texture, color, and an extra layer of taste sensation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 28 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg