When the sun dips low, casting a warm glow over my kitchen, there’s nothing quite like the comforting sizzle of tofu dancing in hot oil. Recently, I found myself craving a dish that would bring vibrant flavors and creamy textures to my dinner table without the fuss of takeout. Enter my Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce—a delightful fusion of comforting ingredients that redefine weeknight meals.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; it’s perfect for those evenings when you want something quick yet packed with flavor. The combination of rich coconut milk and fiery sambal oelek creates a sauce that’s incredibly addictive, while the golden-brown tofu provides a satisfying bite. Whether you’re a seasoned chef looking to impress guests or someone seeking a healthier alternative to fast food, this dish delights the taste buds while being surprisingly easy to whip up. Grab your apron and let’s dive into this flavor-packed journey!

Why love Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce?

Bursting with Flavor: This dish beautifully balances creamy coconut milk and spicy sambal oelek, ensuring that every bite is bursting with deliciousness.
Quick and Simple: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can achieve a gourmet taste at home.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week, saving you time on busy nights.
Decadent yet Healthy: It’s a comforting meal that satisfies cravings without the guilt of fast food.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it over rice or noodles, or enjoy it alongside your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this tasty option that pleases everyone at the table!

Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Ingredients

For the Tofu
• Super firm or firm tofu – 10 to 20 ounces, the ideal choice for achieving a satisfying, meaty texture.
• Canola or vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons, perfect for frying and providing a neutral flavor.
• Kosher salt – A pinch to season the tofu and enhance its flavor.

For the Coconut Sauce
• Coconut oil – 2 tablespoons, adds a luscious richness to the sauce, rounding out the spiciness perfectly.
• Thinly sliced shallots – 1 cup (120g), contributing a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Minced ginger – 1 1/2 tablespoons, an essential ingredient that brings warmth and fragrance.
• Full-fat canned coconut milk – 1 cup, ensuring the sauce is creamy and decadent.
• Sambal oelek – 2 to 3 tablespoons, a spicy kick that takes the flavor profile to new heights.
• Red curry paste – 1 1/2 tablespoons, deepening the flavor and adding a touch of heat.
• Coconut or brown sugar – 1 1/2 to 3 teaspoons, balancing out the spiciness with a hint of sweetness.
• Ground coriander (optional) – 1 teaspoon, if desired, for an extra layer of complexity in flavor.
• Diamond Crystal kosher salt – 1/2 teaspoon (or 1/4 teaspoon if using table salt), fine-tuning the seasoning for perfect balance.

This Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce is not only flavorsome but also incredibly simple to prepare, allowing you to savor every moment at the dinner table!

How to Make Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

Press the Tofu: Start by pressing and draining the tofu to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that golden brown texture. Cut it into your desired shapes, whether cubes or slabs.
Brown the Tofu: Heat canola or vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the tofu, cooking until golden brown on all sides. Don’t forget to season with a pinch of kosher salt for enhanced flavor!
Sauté Aromatics: In a separate pan, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and minced ginger, cooking until the shallots become soft and translucent, releasing those delightful aromas.
Create the Sauce: Stir in the full-fat canned coconut milk along with sambal oelek, red curry paste, and sugar. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce and adjust flavors with ground coriander and kosher salt, cooking for just a few more minutes until everything is heated through. You want it nice and warm!
Serve: Serve the crispy tofu drizzled generously with the creamy coconut sauce. You’ll want to savor every delicious bite.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce fresh; it’s best served warm right after cooking. Avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours.

Fridge: Store leftover tofu and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave before serving to maintain creaminess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tofu separately from the sauce. It can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, place the tofu in a pan and add a splash of water to keep it moist. Heat over medium until warm and serve together with the thawed coconut sauce.

Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists and substitutions for a personalized touch!

Extra Spicy: Add more sambal oelek or a dash of sriracha to crank up the heat for those who love a fiery kick!
Veggie-Loaded: Toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to make this a heartier, more colorful dish. They add texture and flavor!
Gluten-Free: Swap out regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make the dish gluten-free without sacrificing taste.
Creamy Alternative: Replace coconut milk with cashew cream for a slightly different flavor profile while keeping that rich creaminess.
Herb-Infused: Infuse the coconut oil with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for an aromatic twist that brightens the flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped peanuts or cashews for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy sauce.
Tropical Twist: Add pineapple chunks into the sauce for a sweet, tropical flavor that beautifully complements the spice of the sambal oelek.
Vegan Protein Boost: Stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas to pack this dish with extra protein and fiber, making it even more satisfying.

The beauty of cooking lies in the little tweaks that make a recipe your own. Enjoy experimenting!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments during busy weeknights! You can press and cut the tofu, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, the sauce can be made a day in advance and refrigerated to allow the flavors to deepen. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a pan while browning the tofu in oil until golden. This process not only maintains the dish’s quality but also keeps the tofu just as delicious and satisfying. You’ll have a flavorful meal on the table in no time!

What to Serve with Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce?

Building a meal that’s both satisfying and delightful is all about creating the perfect pairings for this creamy, spicy dish.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice absorbs the savory coconut sauce beautifully, making each bite a comforting experience.
Crispy Roasted Broccoli: Tossed with a sprinkle of salt and olive oil, roasted broccoli adds a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that balances the creaminess.
Sweet Tangy Mango Salad: Fresh mango combined with red onions and cilantro offers a vibrant, sweet contrast that brightens every bite.
Cold Coconut Water: This refreshing drink pairs perfectly, keeping the meal light and soothing the spice while enhancing the coconut flavors.
Cilantro Lime Quinoa: Quinoa offers a nutty flavor and a protein boost, while the lime zest brightens the dish, making it even more refreshing.
Coconut Sorbet: For dessert, a light coconut sorbet serves as a perfect palate cleanser after the rich meal, leaving you feeling satisfied.

Elevate your dinner with these delightful combinations that will bring warmth and joy to your table!

Expert Tips for Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce

• Press Tofu Properly: Ensure you press the tofu long enough to remove excess moisture, which helps it brown nicely and absorb the creamy coconut sauce.
• Choose the Right Oil: Use canola or vegetable oil for frying the tofu; these oils have a high smoke point and won’t overpower the dish’s flavors.
• Simmer Gently: When creating the sauce with coconut milk and sambal oelek, simmer gently to prevent it from curdling. A low, even heat preserves the creaminess.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning of your sauce gradually; add more sambal oelek for heat or coconut sugar for sweetness based on your preference for sweetness in this spicy tofu dish.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is at its best when served right after cooking, ensuring each bite of tofu is crisp and coated in that luscious sauce.

Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of tofu is best to use for this recipe?
I recommend using super firm or firm tofu for the best texture. This type of tofu holds its shape well during cooking and provides a satisfying bite. Be sure to press the tofu properly to remove excess moisture before cooking, ensuring a golden-brown finish.

How should I store leftover Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce?
You can store leftover tofu and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to keep the sauce creamy without curdling. This allows you to enjoy the dish again while savoring its vibrant flavors.

Can I freeze Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce?
Absolutely! For freezing, I suggest separating the tofu from the sauce. The tofu can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the tofu in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the tofu in the fridge overnight before reheating. The sauce can also be frozen; just pour it into a freezer-safe container, and it will be ready when you are!

What can I do if my sauce is too spicy?
If your sauce turns out spicier than you’d like, you can mellow it by adding a bit more coconut milk or sugar to balance the heat. Start by adding a tablespoon at a time, tasting as you go. This will help you achieve your desired flavor profile without losing the vibrant essence of the dish.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This Spicy Tofu with Creamy Coconut Sauce is a vegan dish, making it suitable for plant-based diets. However, always check the labels of specific ingredients, such as sambal oelek and red curry paste, to ensure they don’t contain any allergens if you’re cooking for guests with dietary restrictions. If you have pets, avoid sharing this dish—especially the sauce—since some ingredients can be harmful to them.