Are you looking for a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds craving more? Look no further than the bold and aromatic world of Thai cuisine. With its rich combination of spices, herbs, and chilies, Thai cooking is a perfect match for the versatility of tofu. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouth-watering spicy Thai tofu recipes that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
From classic dishes like Pad Thai to creamy curries and soups, these recipes showcase the best of Thailand’s street food scene and modern twists on traditional favorites. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Thai cuisine or just looking for some inspiration for your next meal, we’ve got you covered with this collection of spicy Thai tofu recipes.
Thai Basil Tofu Stir-Fry
A flavorful and aromatic stir-fry that combines the savory taste of tofu with the bright, zesty flavor of Thai basil. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tablespoons Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked jasmine rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and bell peppers to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped Thai basil, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and stir to combine with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve over cooked jasmine rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Thai Peanut Tofu Satay
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this spicy and savory tofu satay recipe, infused with creamy peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
– 1/4 cup peanut oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for serving)
– Chopped peanuts and cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, curry paste, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the tofu slices to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the tofu from the marinade and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until crispy and golden brown.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, garlic, and soy sauce.
6. Serve the grilled tofu with the spicy peanut sauce, garnished with chopped peanuts and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Thai Tofu with Sweet Chili Sauce
This recipe combines the crunch of crispy fried tofu with the sweet and spicy kick of homemade chili sauce, perfect for a flavorful and easy dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Toss the tofu cubes in the mixture until evenly coated.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the tofu and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
5. Serve the crispy tofu with sweet chili sauce and garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Red Curry Tofu with Coconut Milk
This vibrant and aromatic dish is a staple of Thai cuisine, made by combining tender tofu with the rich flavors of coconut milk, red curry paste, and fragrant spices. This recipe makes for a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons red curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh Thai basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the red curry paste and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and water, stirring to combine.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped Thai basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Green Curry Tofu with Vegetables
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this vibrant green curry dish, packed with tender tofu and a medley of colorful vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup Thai green curry paste
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
3. Add tofu; cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Mango Tofu Salad
Escape to the tropics with this refreshing and flavorful Thai-inspired salad featuring crispy tofu, sweet mango, and tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
– Mixed greens (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes per side.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and ginger.
4. Combine the cooked tofu, mango, cilantro, and dressing in a large bowl.
5. Toss to coat and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve over mixed greens for a fresh and satisfying meal.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Lemongrass Tofu Soup
This fragrant and flavorful soup is a staple of Thai cuisine, perfect for a light and refreshing meal on a warm day. With the combination of tender tofu, aromatic lemongrass, and savory broth, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup of coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add tofu and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Stir in coconut milk, soy sauce, and fish sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Pineapple Fried Tofu
A sweet and savory twist on traditional fried tofu, this Thai-inspired dish is perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, the combination of pineapple chunks and spicy sauce will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic, curry paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add pineapple chunks to the pan and stir to combine with the sauce.
5. Return tofu to the pan and toss to coat with the pineapple sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Coconut Tofu Curry
A creamy and aromatic Thai-inspired curry that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor, featuring tender tofu in a rich coconut milk sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add tofu; cook until golden brown on all sides.
4. Stir in curry paste; cook 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bell peppers; bring to simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curdle for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and cilantro (if using).
8. Serve hot, garnished with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Yellow Curry Tofu with Potatoes
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this easy-to-make dish that combines crispy tofu and tender potatoes in a creamy yellow curry sauce. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cups yellow curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add ginger, curry paste, coconut milk, and water or broth. Stir to combine.
5. Add potatoes and tofu back into the pan. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Garlic Pepper Tofu
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple and aromatic recipe for Thai Garlic Pepper Tofu. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with garlic and pepper flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and Thai red curry paste. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the black pepper and a pinch of salt to the skillet and stir well.
6. Return the tofu to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic-pepper mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Tofu Pad Thai
A classic Thai dish, Pad Thai is a flavorful and aromatic stir-fry that combines tender tofu with sweet and sour flavors, crunchy peanuts, and chewy rice noodles. This recipe makes a quick and easy meal for one or two people.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 2 minutes.
5. Add tamarind paste, soy sauce, palm sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 30 seconds to combine.
6. Add cooked noodles and tofu mixture; stir-fry until well combined.
7. Garnish with chopped peanuts and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Tofu Massaman Curry
This rich and flavorful curry is a popular Thai dish made with tender tofu, potatoes, peanuts, and a blend of aromatic spices. Serve over steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 teaspoons Massaman curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
2. Add more oil if needed, then sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add curry paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in coconut milk, peanut butter, and chopped peanuts. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add potatoes and tofu back into the pan. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes or until desired doneness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Tofu Larb with Fresh Herbs
A flavorful and refreshing Thai-inspired dish that combines crispy tofu with a tangy and spicy herb-based sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or to taste)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
– 1-2 teaspoons Thai chili flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In same pan, add garlic, ginger, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add herbs (basil, cilantro, scallions) and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
5. Return tofu to pan and stir in fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Tofu Tom Yum Soup
Tom Yum soup is a classic Thai dish that’s both flavorful and refreshing. This recipe is a plant-based twist on the traditional version, featuring tender tofu and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon Tom Yum paste
– 1/4 cup chopped lemongrass
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth, water, Tom Yum paste, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and red chili flakes.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the tofu cubes and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Thai Tofu with Cashew Nuts
This spicy and savory dish is a staple of Thai cuisine, featuring crispy tofu and crunchy cashews in a flavorful sauce. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the bold flavors of Thailand in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cashew nuts
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add tofu and cashews; stir-fry until tofu is golden brown.
5. Add bell peppers and coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken (about 10 minutes).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Thai Tofu Panang Curry
A creamy and aromatic Thai curry made with tender tofu, sweet potatoes, and a blend of spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 2 teaspoons Panang curry paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and sweet potatoes; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste, coconut milk, fish sauce, and palm sugar. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add mixed vegetables and tofu back into the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Tofu with Basil and Chili
A flavorful and spicy Thai-inspired dish that combines the richness of tofu, the brightness of basil, and the kick of chili.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes or sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the garlic, ginger, curry paste, and bell peppers. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Add the cooked tofu back into the skillet, along with the basil leaves and chili flakes or sriracha sauce. Stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 mouth-watering Thai tofu recipes! From classic stir-fries to creamy curries, and from sweet salads to savory soups, this collection has it all. Discover the bold flavors of Thailand, infused with aromatics like lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. Try your hand at dishes like Spicy Thai Peanut Tofu Satay, Crispy Thai Tofu with Sweet Chili Sauce, or Thai Red Curry Tofu with Coconut Milk. With a wide range of options to suit every taste, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.