There’s nothing quite like the magic that happens in the kitchen when you whip up a recipe that’s both comforting and bursting with bold flavors. Today, we dive into our Spicy Peanut Tofu Recipe, a delightful blend of crispy tofu glazed in a rich, spicy peanut sauce, garnished with crunchy peanuts, and fresh herbs. Picture it on your contemporary dining table, alongside a bowl of fragrant jasmine rice and crisp steamed vegetables—a meal fit for a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two. This recipe is a testament to creativity and the bond we share over food, reminding us of the unspoken joy in creating and sharing meals. Let’s bring some excitement to your kitchen!
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Steamed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots)
- Jasmine rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Drain the tofu and press it under a heavy object for about 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 10 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, sriracha, maple syrup or honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and water until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the peanut sauce into the skillet with the tofu. Stir to coat the tofu evenly, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve the spicy peanut tofu with a side of steamed vegetables and jasmine rice. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts and fresh herbs over the top for a delightful garnish.
Helpful Tips
- If you’re new to cooking tofu, ensure you press it well to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less sriracha according to your taste.
- For a nuttier flavor, try using chunky peanut butter.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Maple syrup can be replaced with honey or agave syrup.
- Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light and refreshing vegetable stir-fry or a tangy cucumber salad to balance the spiciness. For drinks, a chilled glass of iced tea or a zesty lemonade would complement the flavors beautifully.
Our Spicy Peanut Tofu Recipe captures the essence of what we love at Zynahz: bringing joy and creativity into your kitchen. We invite you to try this recipe and share the love with friends and family. Don’t forget to share your kitchen adventures with us and follow us on social media. Sign up for our newsletter to discover more delightful recipes and inspiring kitchen tips. Your next culinary masterpiece is just a recipe away with Zynahz!