Spicy Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce
Grilled tofu skewers glazed with a sweet-and-savory peanut sauce, inspired by authentic Southeast Asian flavors. This thai-inspired quick meals (gluten-free) ready in about 45 minutes blends block (14 oz), cubed firm tofu, peanut butter, coconut milk into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 380 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. 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
- 1 block (14 oz), cubed firm tofu
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sriracha
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup, chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate 14 oz cubed tofu in 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sriracha, and 1 tsp brown sugar for 30 minutes.
- Step 2: Thread tofu onto skewers. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Step 3: Grill skewers for 4-5 minutes per side until charred and crispy, brushing with 1/4 cup peanut butter during cooking.
- Step 4: Whisk together 1/4 cup coconut milk, 1 tbsp lime juice, and 1 tsp brown sugar for the sauce.
- Step 5: Serve skewers with sauce drizzled on top and garnish with cilantro.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Spicy Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 45 minutes (25 min prep + 20 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Spicy Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Spicy Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Spicy Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Spicy Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce gluten-free?
Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten-free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Absolutely wonderful.
- ★★★★☆
Very good for a 20-minute recipe. Would bump up the spice level though.
- ★★★☆☆
It was fine. Came out a bit bland for my taste.
