Crispy Pan-Fried Tofu with Thai Peanut Sauce

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-05 · Updated 2026-06-05

Golden, crispy tofu cubes pan-fried and served with a rich, creamy Thai peanut sauce for a satisfying vegetarian dish. This Thai-inspired vegetarian recipe, ready in about 30 minutes, pairs firm tofu, cornstarch, vegetable oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 400 calories and feeds 3, 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.

Ingredients

• 14 oz block, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes firm tofu
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup, creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 2, minced garlic cloves
• 1/4 tsp red chili flakes
• 1/4 cup water
• 2, sliced for garnish green onions
• 2 tbsp for garnish crushed peanuts

The pan we’d use for this → Best Nonstick Cookware for 2026: Top 5 Skillet Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Press the 14 oz block of firm tofu for 20 minutes to remove excess water, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss the cubes in 1/4 cup cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a small saucepan, combine 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup coconut milk, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp lime juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 tsp red chili flakes, and 1/4 cup water. Heat over medium-low heat, whisking continuously for 5 minutes until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
4. Step 4: Return the crispy tofu cubes to the skillet, pour the peanut sauce over them, and gently toss to coat evenly, cooking for another 2 minutes.
5. Step 5: Serve hot, garnished with 2 sliced green onions and 2 tbsp crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.