Craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that's both healthy and ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Thai curry tofu recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with aromatic spices, tender tofu, and a creamy coconut milk sauce that will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this easy recipe is guaranteed to impress. This delicious dish is perfect for healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and showcases the best of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tbsp Thai red curry paste (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Get started:
- Press the tofu to remove excess water. This crucial step ensures the tofu crisps beautifully during cooking. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object (like books or a cast iron skillet) on top for at least 15 minutes.
Sauté the aromatics:
- Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Build the curry:
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Add the red and green bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender-crisp.
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Stir in the Thai red curry paste and cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromas. This step enhances the depth of flavor in your dish.
Simmer to perfection:
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Pour in the coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Add the cubed tofu and vegetable broth. Simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the tofu is heated through and slightly browned.
Serve and enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over cooked rice.
Tips for Thai Curry Tofu Success:
- Pressing the Tofu: Don't skip this step! Pressing the tofu removes excess moisture, resulting in a firmer, crispier texture.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Start with less curry paste and add more to taste. Thai red curry paste can range in spiciness, so it's best to adjust to your preference.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ginger, garlic, and cilantro elevates the flavor of this dish considerably.
Variations:
- Add Protein: Include cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Vegetable Medley: Experiment with other vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, or carrots.
- Different Curry Paste: Try using green or yellow curry paste for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This Thai curry tofu recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful weekend lunch. It’s a delicious and healthy option for those seeking easy recipes and best recipes. Enjoy the amazing flavors and the ease of making this dish!