Name: Creamy Coconut Lime Tofu Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 8 dried chillies, deseeded; 3 dried shiitake mushrooms; 3 cloves of garlic; 1 inch piece of ginger; 2 shallots; 500g firm tofu, chopped into bite-sized pieces; 1 tbsp cornflour (corn starch in US); 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp neutral flavoured oil (sunflower, rapeseed, or vegetable oil) for coating; 400ml coconut milk; 2 tbsp light soy sauce; 1/2 tbsp palm sugar or brown sugar; Zest and juice of half a lime; 2 tbsp neutral flavoured oil for sautéing; 2 fresh red chillies, sliced; Handful of Thai basil (or coriander as substitute)

If you’re craving a vibrant, mouthwatering meal that balances rich creaminess with a zesty kick, this Creamy Coconut Lime Tofu Recipe is the perfect dish to whip up. It showcases crispy tofu enveloped in a luscious coconut sauce infused with fragrant lime, bright herbs, and a gentle heat from chili — all coming together in a harmony of flavors and textures that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan cook or just dipping your toes into plant-based meals, this recipe promises an exciting and satisfying culinary adventure.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear food processor bowl filled with several garlic cloves, whole shallots with light pinkish skin, and chunky pieces of red-brown tamarind pulp around the white blade in the center. A woman's hand is visible at the top edge, holding the bowl. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient here plays a vital role in creating the magic of this dish. From the fiery dried chillies that build complexity to the creamy coconut milk that brings everything together, these simple essentials add layers of taste, enticing aromas, and appealing colors to your bowl.

Dried chillies (8): Deseeded to control the heat while adding smoky depth to the sauce.
Dried shiitake mushrooms (3): Soaked for a meaty, umami boost that enriches the coconut base.
Garlic (3 cloves): Crushed to infuse warmth and aroma in every bite.
Ginger (1 inch piece): Adds a fresh, slightly spicy note that brightens the sauce.
Shallots (2): Provide a mild sweetness and subtle oniony flavor, grounding the dish.
Firm tofu (500g): The star protein, which crisps up beautifully for satisfying texture.
Coconut milk (400ml): Creates the luscious, creamy base that comforts and balances the spice.
Light soy sauce (2 tbsp): Enhances umami and salty notes with a delicate touch.
Palm sugar or brown sugar (1/2 tbsp): Balances acidity and heat with gentle sweetness.
Lime (1/2): Both zest and juice add a zesty brightness and fresh pop.
Fresh red chillies (2, sliced): For a final fresh heat kick and vibrant color.
Thai basil (handful): Gives aromatic, slightly peppery herbal notes; coriander works too if preferred.
Neutral-flavored oil (3 tbsp): Such as sunflower or rapeseed oil, perfect for frying without overpowering flavors.
Cornflour (1 tbsp): Ensures the tofu crisps perfectly when air-fried.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors harmoniously.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Creamy Coconut Lime Tofu Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chili and Mushroom Paste

Start by deseeding those dried chillies — it’s simple and helps tame the heat while keeping flavor. Then soak the dried chillies and shiitake mushrooms in boiling water for 15 minutes to soften them and draw out their deep umami character. Blend these softened ingredients with the garlic, ginger, and shallots, adding some soaking water to create a vibrant chili paste bursting with aromatic intensity.

Step 2: Crisp the Tofu

Cut your firm tofu into bite-sized chunks and gently toss them with a tablespoon of neutral oil, the cornflour, and salt. This little coating trick ensures the tofu gets wonderfully crispy when air-fried at 185°C (365°F) for 15 minutes. Flip halfway through to get a golden, crunchy exterior that perfectly contrasts with the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Coconut Sauce

While the tofu crisps up, heat the remaining oil in a pan over medium-low heat and gently sauté your chili paste for a few minutes, which mellows out the raw garlic and ginger flavors. Lower the heat and pour in the coconut milk, topping it up with water from the empty coconut milk can so nothing goes to waste. Stir in soy sauce, palm sugar, and lime zest, simmering gently to marry all the flavors while keeping a silky texture.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Add the golden tofu pieces into the coconut sauce along with sliced fresh red chillies, a handful of Thai basil or coriander, and a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice. Let everything warm through together for a minute or two to blend all the tastes while keeping the herbs lively and bright.

How to Serve Creamy Coconut Lime Tofu Recipe

A metal pan filled with a rich, creamy orange sauce that has chunks of light-colored meat or tofu inside. On top, there are fresh green basil leaves and small pieces of red chili. A person wearing a cream shirt with dark green stripes is sprinkling more basil leaves over the dish with their hand. The background has a soft kitchen setting with warm lighting and the surface below the pan is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For extra flair and complexity, garnish with more fresh Thai basil or coriander leaves, a few thin slices of fresh red chilli, and a light zesting of lime right before serving. These final touches elevate the dish visually and add fresh pops of flavor that wake up each bite.

Side Dishes

This creamy and flavorful tofu pairs beautifully with simple steamed jasmine rice, fragrant coconut rice, or even your favorite noodles. Rice help soak up the luscious sauce, while noodles add a fun, chewy texture contrast. Lightly steamed greens or a crunchy cucumber salad make refreshing accompaniments too.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting presentation, serve the tofu in brightly colored bowls that highlight the sauce’s creamy white and vibrant green hues. You can also create a bowl meal with sections of rice, tofu, and fresh herbs on top, drizzling extra sauce on the side for dipping. Adding toasted cashews or chopped peanuts offers an unexpected crunch that’s always a delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Since the tofu crisps slightly soften after refrigeration, gently reheat to bring back the creamy goodness, and enjoy a quick, delicious lunch or dinner.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well, especially the sauce. Store the tofu and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove to keep textures optimal.

Reheating

Reheat on low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally to warm through evenly. To regain some tofu crispness, you can also air fry or oven-bake leftover tofu briefly before combining it back into the warmed sauce.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chillies instead of dried?

Absolutely! Fresh chillies add a brighter, sharper heat, but dried chillies provide deeper smoky flavors. You could mix both or adjust amounts to suit your heat preference.

Is firm tofu the best choice for this recipe?

Yes, firm tofu holds its shape well and crisps nicely when coated and air-fried, making it ideal for this recipe. Silken tofu would be too soft and not give the desired texture.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No worries! You can crisp the tofu in a non-stick pan over medium heat with a bit of oil, turning frequently until golden and crispy. Oven-baking at 200°C (390°F) for 20-25 minutes also works well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Just be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and double-check your other ingredients to keep it safe if you’re sensitive.

How can I adjust the spice level?

Remove the seeds from the dried chillies and reduce fresh chilli slices to lower heat. Alternatively, add more chillies if you love fiery food. The lime and coconut milk help balance the spice beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Coconut Lime Tofu Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a hug on a plate — rich, flavorful, and full of thoughtful contrasts that delight your palate. Give this recipe a try for your next meal and watch it quickly become one of your kitchen favorites. It’s easy to make, fun to share, and simply irresistible.

Creamy Coconut Lime Tofu Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Creamy Coconut Lime Tofu Recipe