If you are looking for a vegan dinner, Baked tofu with peanut sauce and coconut-lime rice is perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike. This recipe combines crispy tofu, creamy peanut sauce, and coconut-lime rice for a balanced and dinner tofu dinner meal.
Easy Baked tofu with peanut sauce and coconut-lime rice is a delicious and wholesome dish. It’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors.
The crispy tofu pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy peanut sauce. Add the fragrant coconut-lime rice, and you have a complete, satisfying meal.
This recipe is ideal for vegans, but everyone will enjoy it. It’s simple to prepare and works great for meal prep or weeknight dinners.
Plus, the ingredients are easy to find and budget-friendly. Whether you’re new to tofu or a fan, this dish will quickly become a favorite!
Why you’ll love Baked tofu with peanut sauce and coconut-lime rice
Baked tofu with peanut sauce and coconut-lime rice is a dish that’s hard to resist. Its combination of textures, flavors, and nutrition makes it a standout choice for any meal. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen:
- Balanced Flavors: The rich, creamy crispy tofu with peanut sauce perfectly complements the sesame tofu with coconut lime dressing. The baked tofu and rice adds a savory touch that ties everything together.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly. Plus, the baking method keeps things hands-free, so you can multitask in the kitchen.
- Wholesome and Nutritious: Packed with plant-based protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs, this dish is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.
It’s also a versatile recipe that fits different diets and preferences. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish is sure to impress. Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite!
How to cook Baked tofu with peanut sauce and coconut-lime rice
Cooking baked tofu with peanut sauce and coconut-lime rice is easier than you think. This recipe combines simple techniques to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.
From baking crispy tofu to crafting a creamy peanut sauce and cooking perfectly fluffy rice, every step is straightforward and rewarding. It’s a one-stop dish that’s packed with taste and texture.
You’ll learn how to bake tofu to perfection. Make a balanced baked tofu and rice with just the right tang and sweetness, with the tropical flavors of sesame tofu with coconut lime dressing.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is foolproof. It’s the ultimate guide to creating a wholesome, crowd-pleasing dinner meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Baked Tofu
- Tofu: 1 block of extra-firm tofu
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon for crispiness
- Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
For the Peanut Sauce
- Peanut butter: ¼ cup (creamy or crunchy)
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
- Maple syrup: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated
- Water: 2–3 tablespoons to thin the sauce
For the coconut lime dressing
- Jasmine rice: 1 cup
- Coconut milk: 1 cup (full-fat or light)
- Water: 1 cup
- Lime zest: 1 teaspoon
- Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Baked Tofu
- Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture.
- Use a tofu press or place the tofu between two plates and weigh it down with a heavy object for 15 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and cornstarch.
- The cornstarch ensures the tofu bakes up crispy. Spread the tofu evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.
- Tofu is done when it’s golden brown on the outside and has a firm, slightly crispy texture.
- For baked or pan-fried tofu, it should feel springy but hold its shape. If cooked in a soup or stew, it’s ready once heated through and has absorbed the surrounding flavors.
2. Make the Peanut Sauce
- While the tofu bakes, prepare the peanut sauce. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, maple syrup, garlic, and ginger.
- Add water gradually until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. It should be creamy but pourable. Adjust the flavors as needed—more lime juice for tanginess or maple syrup for sweetness.
3. Cook the Coconut-Lime Rice
- Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the lime zest and lime juice. This adds a refreshing citrus kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy peanut sauce.
To know more about coconut lime rice check out : how to make coconut lime rice
4. Assemble the Dish
On a plate, layer the coconut-lime rice as a base.
Add the crispy baked tofu on top, and drizzle generously with peanut sauce. Garnish with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and a lime wedge for an extra pop of flavor.
Tips for Perfect Results
Perfect Baked tofu and rice with coconut lime rice making your day.By addressing these points, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly crispy baked tofu every time!
- Crispy Tofu: Don’t skip the cornstarch—it’s the secret to perfectly crispy baked tofu.
- Fluffy Rice: Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, preventing it from clumping.
- Balanced Sauce: Taste as you go when making the peanut sauce to achieve the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy.
Why Is My Baked Tofu Not Crispy?
When making this dish you may face “Why Is My Baked Tofu Not Crispy?’’ the solution are :
If your baked tofu isn’t crispy, it’s likely due to one of these common issues:
- Too Much Moisture: Tofu needs to be pressed properly to remove excess water. Wet tofu won’t crisp up in the oven. Use a tofu press or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for at least 15 minutes.
- Skipping Cornstarch: Cornstarch is a key ingredient for achieving a crispy outer layer. Toss your tofu cubes with a light coating of cornstarch before baking.
- Crowded Baking Tray: When tofu pieces are too close together, they steam instead of bake. Spread them out evenly on the tray, ensuring enough space between each piece.
- Low Oven Temperature: Baking tofu at too low a temperature won’t give you the desired texture. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Not Enough Oil: While tofu doesn’t need a lot of oil, a light coating helps it crisp up. Toss the tofu in a small amount of sesame or vegetable oil before baking.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute tamari for soy sauce in both the tofu and peanut sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the peanut sauce for heat.
- Grain Alternative: Swap jasmine rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with steamed broccoli, roasted sweet potatoes, or a fresh cucumber salad. The versatility of baked tofu with peanut sauce and coconut-lime rice makes it ideal for any meal combination.
This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and toppings. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or a larger gathering, you can customize it to suit your preferences. The balance of crispy tofu, creamy peanut sauce, and fragrant rice makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Here are some great serving ideas:
- Add a side of veggies: Pair it with steamed broccoli, roasted sweet potatoes, or stir-fried greens.
- Top with fresh garnishes: Sprinkle chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, or thinly sliced green onions for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve family-style: Layer the rice on a platter, arrange the tofu on top, and drizzle with peanut sauce for a shared meal.
- Include a fresh salad: A cucumber or mango salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
- Pair with bread or wraps: Use the components as fillings for lettuce wraps or serve with warm flatbread.
These suggestions make the dish even more adaptable, ensuring it fits any mood or occasion
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
- Store the tofu, rice, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days.
- Reheat the tofu in the oven or air fryer to restore its crispiness.
- The peanut sauce can thicken in the fridge, so add a splash of water before reheating to loosen it up.
Conclusion
Baked tofu with peanut sauce and coconut-lime rice is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Its simplicity, nutritional value, and adaptability make it a go-to recipe for anyone craving a delicious and wholesome meal. Give it a try, and let us know how it turns out. For more recipes visit Top Food Recipe.
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People Also Asked:
Should you boil tofu before baking?
Boiling tofu before baking isn’t necessary, but it can improve texture by firming it up and removing excess moisture. This step is optional and depends on the recipe and your preference for texture.
What happens if you don’t drain tofu before cooking?
If you don’t drain tofu before cooking, it will retain excess moisture, making it difficult to achieve a crispy or firm texture. The tofu may turn out soggy and fail to absorb marinades or seasonings effectively.
How do you know when tofu is done baking?
You’ll know tofu is done baking when it’s golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges. The texture should feel firm to the touch, and the pieces will have a lightly crisp outer layer while remaining soft inside.
Do I need to soak tofu before cooking?
No, you don’t need to soak tofu before cooking. However, pressing tofu to remove excess water is essential for better texture and flavor absorption, especially when marinating or baking.
How to tell if tofu is done?
Tofu is done when it’s golden brown on the outside and has a firm, slightly crispy texture. For baked or pan-fried tofu, it should feel springy but hold its shape. If cooked in a soup or stew, it’s ready once heated through and has absorbed the surrounding flavors.
Can I freeze baked tofu?
Yes, baked tofu freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe bag and reheat it in the oven for a crispy texture.
Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Absolutely! Adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
How can I make the peanut sauce nut-free?
Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative.
Easy Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce and Coconut-Lime Rice
4
servings5
minutes25
minutes490
kcal30
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
For the Baked Tofu
Tofu: 1 block of extra-firm tofu
Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon for crispiness
Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
For the Peanut Sauce
Peanut butter: ¼ cup (creamy or crunchy)
Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
Maple syrup: 1 tablespoon
Garlic: 1 clove, minced
Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated
Water: 2–3 tablespoons to thin the sauce
For the coconut lime dressing
Jasmine rice: 1 cup
Coconut milk: 1 cup (full-fat or light)
Water: 1 cup
Lime zest: 1 teaspoon
Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
Salt: ½ teaspoon
Directions
- Prepare the Baked Tofu
- Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture.
- Use a tofu press or place the tofu between two plates and weigh it down with a heavy object for 15 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and cornstarch.
- The cornstarch ensures the tofu bakes up crispy. Spread the tofu evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.
- Tofu is done when it’s golden brown on the outside and has a firm, slightly crispy texture.
- For baked or pan-fried tofu, it should feel springy but hold its shape. If cooked in a soup or stew, it’s ready once heated through and has absorbed the surrounding flavors.
- Make the Peanut Sauce
- While the tofu bakes, prepare the peanut sauce. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, maple syrup, garlic, and ginger.
- Add water gradually until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. It should be creamy but pourable. Adjust the flavors as needed—more lime juice for tanginess or maple syrup for sweetness.
- Cook the Coconut-Lime Rice
- Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the lime zest and lime juice. This adds a refreshing citrus kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy peanut sauce.
- Assemble the Dish
- On a plate, layer the coconut-lime rice as a base.
- Add the crispy baked tofu on top, and drizzle generously with peanut sauce. Garnish with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and a lime wedge for an extra pop of flavor.
