Spicy Lemongrass Tofu
Experience the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia with this Spicy Lemongrass Tofu—a dish that perfectly balances bold aromatics and fiery heat. Crispy cubes of golden-brown tofu are tossed in a fragrant sauce made with fresh lemongrass, red chili, garlic, and ginger, creating a symphony of zesty, spicy, and savory notes. A touch of lime juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar adds a tangy-sweet depth, while sesame oil lends a subtle nuttiness. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, this vegan-friendly recipe is perfect served over steamed rice or noodles, making it a hearty, flavorful meal for any occasion.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 400 grams firm tofu
- 2 stalks lemongrass stalks
- 2 units red chili
- 3 units garlic cloves
- 1 inch ginger
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 units green onions
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Drain the tofu and press out excess moisture using a tofu press or by wrapping the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy weight on top for 10 minutes.
Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral cooking oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and pan-fry them for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
Trim the lemongrass stalks and peel away the tough outer layers. Finely mince the tender inner part of the stalks.
Finely chop the red chilies, garlic, ginger, and green onions. Set aside.
In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced lemongrass, chilies, garlic, and ginger, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar, mixing well to create a sauce.
Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and toss it in the sauce, ensuring it's evenly coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through and the sauce slightly thickens.
Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro before serving.
Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
980 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 62.0 g | 79% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.5 g | 42% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2428 mg | 106% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 75.9 g | 28% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.3 g | 26% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.7 g | ||
| Protein | 50.1 g | 100% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 766 mg | 59% | |
| Iron | 18.6 mg | 103% | |
| Potassium | 2002 mg | 43% | |
*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.
