Spicy Tofu Curry
Spicy Tofu Curry is a vibrant, flavorful vegan dish featuring firm tofu simmered in a rich blend of aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and fresh vegetables. This quick and easy recipe delivers bold flavors and comforting warmth, perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal or meal prep.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Protein & Dairy Alternatives
- 400g firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 400ml full-fat coconut milk
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Spices
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
Liquids
- 1 cup vegetable broth (gluten-free verified)
- 2 tbsp cooking oil (such as vegetable or coconut oil)
Optional garnish and sides
- Lime wedges
- Toasted cumin seeds
- Chopped green onions
- Steamed basmati rice, naan, or spiced quinoa for serving
- Prepare the Tofu: Press the firm tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes. Lightly pan-fry the tofu in a tablespoon of oil over medium heat until golden brown on all sides, adding texture and helping it hold onto the curry sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add a little more oil and sauté finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger until soft and fragrant. This step builds the flavorful base for the curry.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle in cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Toast the spices briefly in the pan to release their aroma. Then add the chopped fresh or canned tomatoes, cooking until they break down to form a thick, rich sauce.
- Stir in Coconut Milk and Broth: Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring continuously to combine. Simmer gently for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine Tofu and Simmer: Add the fried tofu cubes back into the pan, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Simmer for another 5 to 7 minutes so the tofu absorbs the spicy flavors fully.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling fresh cilantro leaves on top and optionally squeezing lime over the curry. Serve hot with your choice of steamed basmati rice, naan, or spiced quinoa.
Notes
- Press the tofu properly to avoid soggy texture and improve flavor absorption.
- Toast spices in oil before adding liquids to enhance their aroma and taste.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for best creaminess and balanced heat.
- Simmer gently to prevent coconut milk from separating and maintain a creamy sauce.
- Adjust chili powder and fresh chilies to customize the heat level.
- Check vegetable broth ingredients to ensure it’s gluten-free.
- Soft tofu is not recommended as it falls apart during cooking.
- Cashew cream or plant-based yogurt can substitute coconut milk if allergic, but may alter texture and sweetness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 19 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: spicy tofu curry, vegan curry, tofu recipe, gluten free curry, plant-based dinner, quick vegan meal