Pan Fried Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce
Crispy, golden tofu meets a luscious, flavor-packed spicy peanut sauce in this irresistible Pan Fried Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce recipe. Perfectly seared extra-firm tofu is coated in a light cornstarch crust, then tossed in a creamy, zesty sauce made with peanut butter, lime juice, and just the right kick of sriracha. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, this dish strikes the perfect balance of rich, tangy, and spicy flavors, complemented by a delightful crunch from chopped peanuts and the vibrant aroma of fresh cilantro. Serve it over steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for a satisfying plant-based entrée that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Ideal for weeknight dinners, this protein-packed recipe is a must-try for tofu lovers and those looking for bold, Asian-inspired flavors.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 14 oz extra-firm tofu
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 0.25 cup peanut butter
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 3 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (for sauce)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped peanuts (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Drain the tofu and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. Place a heavy object (like a skillet or canned goods) on top to press out excess moisture. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes.
Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes. Toss them gently with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce to coat evenly.
Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu and toss again until all pieces are lightly coated.
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove tofu from the skillet and set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, lime juice, water, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, sriracha, and minced garlic until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until your desired consistency is reached.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Pour in the peanut sauce and heat it gently over low heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until warm and slightly thickened.
Return the tofu to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the tofu evenly in the peanut sauce.
Serve the tofu on a plate or over steamed rice/vegetables. Garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1548 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 111.0 g | 142% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.0 g | 90% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 33.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2243 mg | 98% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 74.6 g | 27% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.0 g | 50% | |
| Total Sugars | 29.0 g | ||
| Protein | 85.0 g | 170% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 2780 mg | 214% | |
| Iron | 13.3 mg | 74% | |
| Potassium | 1693 mg | 36% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
