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Spicy Tofu with Coconut Lime Sauce Recipe

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3.9 from 12 reviews

A flavorful and spicy tofu dish coated in a tangy coconut lime sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying vegan meal. The tofu is pan-fried to a golden crisp and then simmered with aromatic ginger, garlic, and a spicy, creamy coconut sauce infused with lime and sriracha.

Ingredients

Tofu Marinade

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 (16-ounce) package super firm tofu, pressed and sliced into strips

Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil, divided
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ yellow onion, sliced

Sauce

  • ½ cup canned full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • ½ tablespoon fresh lime juice (remaining)

Optional Garnishes and Serving

  • Cooked rice (optional)
  • Sliced green onion (for garnish, optional)
  • Cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the tofu: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of fresh lime juice, and cornstarch to create the marinade. Add the pressed and sliced tofu strips, gently tossing them to coat evenly with the marinade.
  2. Pan-fry the tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable or canola oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the tofu strips and cook them until they develop a golden-brown crust on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Sauté the freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, and sliced yellow onion for approximately 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
  4. Combine tofu and aromatics: Return the browned tofu strips to the pan with the sautéed aromatics. Cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
  5. Add the coconut lime sauce: Stir in the canned full-fat coconut milk, sriracha, sugar, and the remaining ½ tablespoon of fresh lime juice. Increase heat to high and cook for 1 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and thicken into a flavorful coating for the tofu.
  6. Serve: Plate the spicy tofu and coconut lime sauce hot over cooked rice if desired. Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro to add freshness and color.

Notes

  • Press the tofu well to remove excess moisture before marinating to ensure it crisps up nicely when pan-fried.
  • Adjust the amount of sriracha for desired spice level.
  • Use super firm tofu for best texture that holds up during cooking.
  • Serve with steamed rice or your preferred grain for a complete meal.
  • Garnishes like green onion and cilantro add freshness but are optional.