Spicy pan-seared tofu simmered in a creamy coconut sauce with garlic, ginger, and chili. Bold, comforting, and perfect served over rice or noodles for an easy vegan dinner.
Author:ssam
Prep Time:15 mins
Cook Time:20 mins
Total Time:35 mins
Yield:3 servings 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Asian-Inspired
Ingredients
Scale
14 oz (400 g) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp vegetable or coconut oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1–2 tsp red curry paste or chili paste (to taste)
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup full-fat coconut milk
1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp maple syrup or sugar
Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
1. Pat tofu dry, toss with cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and pan-fry tofu until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.
4. Add garlic and ginger; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Stir in curry paste, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour in coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, and maple syrup. Simmer 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Return tofu to the pan and gently toss to coat in the sauce.
8. Simmer 2–3 minutes more.
9. Garnish with cilantro or green onions and serve hot.
Notes
Adjust heat by adding more or less chili paste.
Serve with jasmine rice, basmati rice, or noodles.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for extra nutrition.