Peanut Tofu Recipe
Make Peanut Tofu Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Tofu
Peanut Sauce
Vegetables & Garnish
To Serve
Method
Tofu
- 1
Press and drain
Remove tofu from package and drain. Wrap in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy skillet or a few cans on top for 15–30 minutes to press out excess liquid. For best texture press 30 minutes.
- 2
Cube and coat
Unwrap pressed tofu and cut into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, toss tofu cubes with cornstarch and salt until evenly coated.
- 3
Pan-fry
Heat neutral oil in a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and cook undisturbed 3–4 minutes until golden brown on the bottom. Flip and cook additional 3–4 minutes, rotating pieces so most sides become crisp and golden (about 8–10 minutes total). Remove tofu to a plate lined with paper towel.
Peanut Sauce
- 4
Mix sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple), sesame oil, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sriracha until smooth. Gradually whisk in warm water until sauce reaches a pourable but thick consistency (about 1 cup water; add more if you prefer thinner). Taste and adjust: add more soy for saltiness, lime for brightness, or honey for sweetness.
- 5
Warm (optional)
For a slightly looser sauce and deeper flavor, gently warm the sauce in a small saucepan over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly. Do not boil. Remove from heat.
Vegetables & Assembly
- 6
Prepare vegetables
While tofu is pressing or frying, thinly slice the scallions and red bell pepper, shred the carrot, slice the cucumber if using, and chop cilantro. Toast peanuts in a dry skillet over medium heat 2–3 minutes until fragrant, then roughly crush. Set aside.
- 7
Combine tofu and sauce
Return the cooked tofu to the skillet over low heat. Pour about two-thirds of the peanut sauce over the tofu and gently toss to coat, heating through 1–2 minutes. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. Remove from heat.
- 8
- 9
Garnish and serve
Sprinkle chopped cilantro, crushed peanuts, and sesame seeds over the bowls. Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over and extra sriracha on the side if desired.