This spicy tofu recipe features pan-fried, very firm tofu tossed in a rich, creamy sauce made with coconut milk, sambal oelek, and red curry paste. It’s tangy, spicy, and packed with coconut flavor. The tofu gets crispy edges without needing pressing, making it quick and easy for a flavorful weeknight dinner. Serve it with jasmine rice or quinoa and a side of vegetables for a complete meal ready in about 30 minutes.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Tofu

• 20 to 22 ounces super firm or firm tofu (very pressed style)

• 2 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)

• Pinch kosher salt

Sauce

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or substitute with any oil)

• 1 cup thinly sliced shallots

• 2 tablespoons minced ginger

• 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk (or lite canned coconut milk)

• 3 to 4 tablespoons sambal oelek (adjust to taste)

• 4 teaspoons red curry paste

• 1 1/2 teaspoons coconut or brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or 1/2 teaspoon table salt; adjust to taste)

Directions

1. Prepare Tofu: Remove tofu from packaging and pat dry if needed. Slice into 1-inch cubes.

2. Pan Fry Tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes in batches if needed. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon salt over tofu. Pan-fry until golden brown on one side (~3 minutes), then flip and fry other sides, sprinkling salt each time, until at least 4 sides are golden. Turn off heat once done.

3. Make Sauce: In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium to medium-low heat. Add shallots and cook for 4-5 minutes until soft. Add minced ginger and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add coconut milk, sambal oelek, red curry paste, coriander (if using), salt, and sugar. Increase heat to medium-high and simmer for 3-4 minutes.

5. Turn off heat and add fried tofu to the sauce, stirring to coat well.

6. Serve immediately, garnished with scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes if desired. Pair with jasmine rice or quinoa and vegetables such as roasted asparagus or blanched broccoli.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 568 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 20 g

• Protein: 24.4 g

• Fat: 45 g

• Saturated Fat: 30.6 g

• Sodium: 1655 mg

• Fiber: 5 g

• Sugar: 11 g

Flavor Profile and Culinary Influences

The flavor profile of this dish is deeply rooted in Southeast Asian cuisine, especially Thai and Indonesian influences. Coconut milk provides a silky richness and a subtle sweetness that tempers the heat from the sambal oelek—a chili paste made from ground fresh red chilis—and the red curry paste, which typically combines red chilies with lemongrass, garlic, and other fragrant spices.

This combination results in a harmonious balance between creamy, spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, creating a dynamic taste experience. The toasted shallots and fresh ginger in the sauce add layers of aromatic warmth and pungency that lift the dish beyond simple heat and creaminess. The optional coriander and a touch of sugar enhance the complexity and depth of flavor, making this more than just a spicy dish but a nuanced culinary experience.

Texture and Cooking Technique

One of the remarkable aspects of this recipe is how it transforms the tofu’s texture. Tofu, especially when very firm, can be bland and soft if not prepared correctly. However, this recipe achieves a golden, crispy exterior by pan-frying the tofu cubes on multiple sides without the need for pressing. This technique locks in moisture inside the tofu while giving it a satisfying crunch outside.

The pan-frying step is straightforward but effective, relying on the right amount of oil and careful attention to the tofu’s surface. Each side of the tofu is sprinkled with salt during frying, enhancing the natural flavor and aiding in crisping the edges. The crispy tofu then serves as the perfect canvas for soaking up the luscious sauce, creating an interplay between crunchy and creamy textures in every bite.

Health and Nutritional Benefits

From a nutritional perspective, this dish offers a balanced profile ideal for a wholesome vegetarian meal. Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, providing approximately 24 grams per serving, which is beneficial for muscle repair and overall health. It is also low in carbohydrates but rich in fats, particularly the saturated fats from the coconut milk, which while often debated, is a natural source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) known to have different metabolic effects compared to long-chain saturated fats.

The dish contains a moderate amount of fiber, coming primarily from the tofu and the accompanying vegetables you might serve alongside, such as broccoli or asparagus. It is important to note the relatively high sodium content, mainly due to the salt, curry paste, and sambal oelek, so those watching their sodium intake should adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Overall, the recipe provides a nutrient-dense meal that combines proteins, fats, and moderate carbohydrates, fitting well into various dietary preferences including vegetarian, vegan (if oil choices are plant-based), and gluten-free.

Versatility and Serving Suggestions

This spicy tofu recipe is versatile and can be adapted to different dietary needs or personal tastes. Serving it over jasmine rice is a classic choice that complements the sauce’s creaminess and absorbs the flavorful juices beautifully. Alternatively, quinoa offers a gluten-free, higher-protein grain option that pairs well with the dish’s richness.

Adding a side of green vegetables—such as roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or sautéed bok choy—introduces freshness, crunch, and additional nutrients, making the meal more balanced and visually appealing. The toppings like scallions, toasted sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes offer a customizable finishing touch that adds color and enhances texture.

For those who enjoy experimenting, the level of spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of sambal oelek, and the curry paste can be substituted with other types like green or yellow curry paste for a different flavor profile.

Cultural Context and Popularity

This dish taps into the growing popularity of plant-based cooking and the global interest in Asian flavors. Tofu, once considered niche outside of Asian markets, is now a mainstream protein alternative celebrated for its versatility and health benefits. Coconut milk-based curries are iconic in Thai and Indonesian cuisines, often favored for their bold yet comforting tastes.

By combining familiar ingredients in an easy-to-execute recipe, this spicy tofu dish brings a taste of Southeast Asia into everyday cooking. Its quick preparation and robust flavor make it accessible for home cooks who want to explore international flavors without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

Conclusion

In summary, this spicy tofu recipe offers a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy plant-based protein with vibrant Southeast Asian flavors. The combination of crispy tofu and a creamy, spicy coconut sauce results in a balanced meal full of texture and depth. Its simplicity, quick preparation time, and adaptability make it an excellent choice for those looking to add flavorful vegetarian dinners to their menu rotation.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply exploring meatless meals, this dish stands out for its bold flavors, ease of preparation, and satisfying qualities. Paired with rice or quinoa and fresh vegetables, it becomes a complete and nourishing dinner that’s sure to impress. With the ability to adjust spice levels and customize toppings, it offers a flexible recipe that can suit a variety of tastes and occasions.

Adding this recipe to your website will not only provide your readers with a flavorful meal idea but also introduce them to the rich culinary heritage of Southeast Asia through a straightforward, home-friendly approach. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients and thoughtful technique can transform everyday tofu into a memorable and mouthwatering dinner experience.