The Best Coconut Tofu Curry
A creamy and flavourful easy tofu curry cooked with spring onions, mangetouts, coconut milk and soy sauce. Makes a quick and easy dinner option.
I discovered tofu late in life. It was one of those things that had somehow slipped under my radar for years.
It was a random evening, and my sister burst into the kitchen with excitement in her eyes. She had stumbled upon a mouthwatering recipe on TikTok that she was just dying to try. And what was the star ingredient? Tofu. Now, I had heard of tofu before, but I had never actually tasted it.
Now, my sister is a foodie extraordinaire. She’s always up-to-date with the latest culinary trends and sometimes she loves experimenting in the kitchen.
“You have to try this new tofu recipe,” she said. It was the firm tofu trend where you’d coat the tofu in spices and marinades and fry it up, Yum!
We got cooking, finally got to taste and Oh my, it was a revelation! The tofu was crispy on the outside and perfectly chewy on the inside, soaking up all the flavours.
A few months later, my sister and I decided to head to Wagamama’s for dinner. As we perused the menu, my eyes were immediately drawn to the delightful dish called the tofu raisukaree curry. The description promised a tantalising blend of flavours and spices that had my taste buds tingling with anticipation.
As the dish arrived at the table, the aroma alone made my mouth water. The tofu curry didn’t disappoint. I knew right then and there that I had to try and replicate it when I got home. So, here’s my attempt!
If you are looking for a quick and simple homemade curry dinner, then tofu coconut curry is a perfect choice. It can be made in just 15 minutes and it is full of protein and healthy fats. The tofu transforms into a complete meal when paired with some simple ingredients like coconut, paprika and chilli powder.
The combination of these ingredients produces the most amazing flavour which goes so well with the firm texture of tofu. I used firm tofu to keep the shape but you can use any type of tofu depending on your preference.
Fun Facts on Tofu: The Versatile Ingredient
Before we dive into the deliciousness of tofu coconut curry, let’s take a moment to appreciate the wonders of tofu. Did you know that tofu originated in China over 2,000 years ago? It was discovered by accident when a Chinese chef accidentally curdled soy milk, giving birth to this versatile ingredient. Tofu, also known as bean curd, quickly made its way into various Asian cuisines and is now loved by people all around the world.
Tofu is made from soybeans and is known for its high protein content. It’s an excellent source of iron, calcium, and vitamins, making it a great choice for vegetarians and vegans. But tofu is not just nutritious; it’s also incredibly versatile. It can be used in a wide range of dishes, from stir-fries to soups, and even desserts. Its mild taste and sponge-like texture make it the perfect canvas for absorbing flavours, just like in this tantalising tofu curry recipe.
The Health Benefits of Tofu Curry
Not only is this coconut tofu curry a delight to the taste buds, but it also comes packed with a myriad of health benefits. Let’s take a closer look at why this dish should be on your regular menu.
The combination of tofu and coconut cream creates a protein-packed powerhouse. Tofu is not only rich in protein but also low in saturated fat, making it a heart-healthy choice. Coconut cream, on the other hand, is rich in healthy fats that provide a sustainable source of energy. Together, they make for a satisfying and nourishing meal.
Additionally, this tofu coconut curry is loaded with vegetables like mangetout, red bell pepper, and spring onions, adding a burst of vibrant colours and essential nutrients. These veggies are packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre, which promote good digestion and overall well-being.
The Benefits of Cooking with Tofu
Cooking with tofu opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, tofu is a fantastic ingredient to experiment with. Here are some benefits of cooking with tofu:
1. Versatility: Tofu can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes. Its neutral taste allows it to take on the flavours of the ingredients it’s cooked with, making it a versatile choice for various cuisines.
2. Texture Transformation: Tofu comes in different textures – soft, firm, and extra firm. Each texture lends itself to different cooking techniques. Soft tofu is perfect for blending into smoothies or making creamy desserts, while firm or extra-firm tofu holds its shape well and is great for grilling, stir-frying, or baking.
3. Nutritional Benefits: Tofu is a complete protein, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids your body needs. It’s also a good source of iron, calcium, and various vitamins. Incorporating tofu into your meals can help you meet your nutritional needs and maintain a balanced diet.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Firm tofu: Traditionally, this dish is made with firm or extra firm tofu. But, you can use any type of tofu depending on your preference.
- Corn Flour: I used corn flour to coat tofu before frying it to give it a crispy texture. It also helps to bind the seasonings together.
- Paprika: I used paprika to flavour and add colour to the curry.
- Green chilli: These are the main sources of flavour in this dish. So, if you like chillies make sure you add a few chillies. You can reduce the number of chillies if you are not very fond of the heat.
- Spring onion: The sweetness of the spring onion complements the flavour of the tofu and other ingredients very well.
- Soy Sauce: I used dark soy sauce to add a savoury, salty flavour. My favourite one to use is the Lee Kum Kee Premium dark soy sauce.
- Coconut cream: I used coconut cream to add creaminess and thickness to the curry. If you aren’t able to find coconut cream, then You can also use full-fat coconut milk.
- Sesame seed oil: I used this to add a nutty and slightly sweet flavour to this tofu coconut curry dish. You can also use olive oil or vegetable oil.
- Mangetout: You can also use broccoli, asparagus or green beans.
- Red peppers: To add vibrant colour to the curry.
Tips for Perfecting the Flavours of Tofu Coconut Curry
To make your tofu coconut curry truly unforgettable, here are some tips to perfect its flavours:
- Don’t shy away from spices: Experiment with different spices to add depth and complexity to your curry. Consider adding a pinch of cumin, curry powder turmeric, or garam masala for an extra burst of flavour.
- Adjust the spiciness: If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of chilli or remove the seeds before chopping. On the other hand, if you love a fiery kick, feel free to add more chilli or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Balancing the sweetness: Coconut cream adds a natural sweetness to the curry, but if you find it too overpowering, balance it out with a squeeze of lime juice or a splash of vinegar.
- Let it simmer: Allowing the curry to simmer for a few minutes helps the flavours meld together and creates a rich and robust taste. Be patient and let the magic happen!
Variations and Substitutions for Tofu Coconut Curry
One of the joys of cooking is the ability to get creative and experiment with different ingredients. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try to put your own spin on the classic tofu coconut curry:
- Protein alternatives: If tofu isn’t your cup of tea, you can substitute it with other proteins like tempeh, seitan, or even chickpeas for an alternative vegan curry option. Each protein will bring a unique texture and flavour to the dish.
- Vegetable medley: Don’t be afraid to mix things up with a variety of vegetables. Consider adding sliced mushrooms, baby corn, or bamboo shoots to create a more diverse and flavorful curry.
- Spice it up: If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to experiment with different types of chillies. From jalapeños to habaneros, you can adjust the spiciness to suit your taste buds.
Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making the dish your own. Feel free to get creative and let your taste buds guide you!
Pairing Tofu Curry
Tofu coconut curry is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal:
- Steamed Rice: Serve your curry over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a classic and satisfying combination. The rice will soak up the creamy coconut sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavours.
- Naan Bread: Tear off a piece of warm, pillowy naan bread and use it to scoop up the curry. The soft texture and subtle flavours of naan complement the rich and creamy nature of the dish.
Feel free to explore other side dishes and accompaniments that suit your taste and dietary preferences.
I invite you to experience the magic of Tofu Coconut Curry firsthand. Try this recipe and let the flavours take you on a delectable journey.
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Coconut Tofu Curry
Equipment
- A large non-stick pan or wok
- A sharp knife and chopping board or preparing the ingredients
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Citrus squeezer
Ingredients
- 300 g Firm tofu
- 2 tbsp corn flour
- 1 tbsp paprika
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 125 g coconut cream
- ½ cup mangetout
- 3 tbsp sesame seed oil
- 5 Spring onions chopped
- 1 chilli chopped
- 1 tbsp Coriander (or cilantro) optional
- 1 red pepper diced
- ½ lime squeezed
Instructions
- Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Place the tofu block between two paper towels and gently press down. You can also place a heavy object on top to speed up the process. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.
- Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into bite-sized cubes. In a mixing bowl, combine the corn flour and paprika. Toss the tofu cubes in the corn flour mixture, ensuring they are coated evenly.
- Heat the sesame seed oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the coated tofu cubes and cook until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the crispy tofu from the pan and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add the chopped spring onions, chilli, and diced red pepper. Sauté them for a few minutes until they become fragrant and slightly softened.
- Add the tofu to the pan and add the soy sauce, coconut cream, and mangetout. Stir everything together until well combined. Let the curry simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Squeeze the lime juice over the curry and give it a final stir. If desired, garnish with fresh coriander for an extra burst of flavour.
- Your tofu coconut curry is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve with rice or naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Storage: Leftover tofu coconut curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat it in a pan or microwave before serving.
- Serving Tips: To elevate the presentation of your dish, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of coconut cream. You can also serve it with a side of pickled vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad.
- Cooking Tofu Tips: If you’re new to cooking with tofu, here are a few tips to ensure success.
- First, make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture. This will help it absorb flavours better and prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Secondly, marinating tofu before cooking can enhance its taste. Consider marinating the tofu cubes in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before coating them in corn flour.
Estimated Breakdown Cost of Ingredients
To give you an idea of the cost of making this delicious tofu coconut curry, here’s an estimated breakdown of the ingredients in both GBP and USD:- 300 g Firm tofu: £2.50 / $3.50
- 2 tbsp corn flour: £0.20 / $0.30
- 1 tbsp paprika: £0.15 / $0.20
- ¼ cup soy sauce: £0.30 / $0.40
- 125 g coconut cream: £0.80 / $1.10
- ½ cup mangetout: £0.50 / $0.70
- 3 tbsp sesame seed oil: £0.50 / $0.70
- 5 Spring onions, chopped: £0.40 / $0.55
- 1 chilli, chopped: £0.10 / $0.15
- 1 tbsp Coriander (optional): £0.15 / $0.20
- 1 red pepper, diced: £0.40 / $0.55
- ½ lime, squeezed: £0.10 / $0.15
Total cost: £6.00 / $8.20
