Crisp Pan-Seared Tofu with Tamarind-Lime Sour Sauce

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-28 · Updated 2026-05-28

How this recipe was made — this recipe was drafted by AislePrompt's AI-assisted pipeline from technique templates and USDA-sourced nutrition data, and published by AislePrompt Editorial — see how AislePrompt recipes are drafted and published.

Golden pan-seared tofu served with a vibrant tamarind and lime sauce that delivers a satisfying sour punch balanced with umami and a hint of sweetness. This Asian Fusion-inspired vegan recipe, ready in about 30 minutes, pairs vegetable oil, tamarind paste, fresh lime juice for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 2 Asian Fusion cuisine 280 cal/serving

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Ingredients

14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1/2-inch slices
3 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tbsp tamarind paste
3 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 tsp red chili flakes
2 tbsp water
2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced

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Instructions

Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz extra-firm tofu slices and cook 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crisp on edges. Remove tofu and set aside.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp tamarind paste, 3 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 tsp red chili flakes, and 2 tbsp water until smooth.
Step 3: Pour the tamarind-lime sauce into the skillet and cook over medium heat for 2 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
Step 4: Return tofu to the skillet and gently toss to coat with the sour sauce. Cook together for 1 minute to warm through.
Step 5: Transfer tofu to a serving plate and garnish with 2 thinly sliced green onions for freshness and mild sharpness.