Vietnamese-Inspired Tofu Curry with Lemongrass and Coconut recipe

Vietnamese-Inspired Tofu Curry with Lemongrass and Coconut

by Diana Opoti (@dianaopotieats)
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
25min
Total Time
40min

A creamy tofu curry packed with vibrant flavors from lemongrass, ginger, and coconut milk, making it a comforting and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 portion)
  • 1
    block firm tofu
  • 2tbsp
    cornstarch
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 2tbsp
    vegetable oil

For the Sauce

  • 1
    stalk lemongrass
  • 1tbsp
    ginger
  • 3clove
    garlic
  • 1
    onion
  • 3
    medium tomatoes
  • 1can
    crushed tomatoes
  • 1cup
    coconut milk
  • 1tsp
    turmeric powder
  • 1tsp
    curry powder
  • 1/2tsp
    chili flakes
  • Fresh cilantro or Thai basil

How to make Vietnamese-Inspired Tofu Curry with Lemongrass and Coconut

Prepare the Tofu

  1. Toss the tofu pieces in cornstarch, salt, and black pepper, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.

    Step 1.1: Toss the tofu pieces in cornstarch, salt, and black pepper, ensuring each piece is coated evenly
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, and pan-fry the tofu until golden and crispy on all sides.

    Step 1.1: Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, and pan-fry the tofu until golden and crispy on all sides
  3. Remove and set aside.

Make the Curry

  1. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the lemongrass, ginger, and garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.

  3. Stir in the grated or crushed tomatoes, bell peppers, turmeric powder, curry powder, and chili flakes (if using). Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly, then blend it.

    Step 2.1: Stir in the grated or crushed tomatoes, bell peppers, turmeric powder, curry powder, and chili flakes (if using)
  4. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then add the crispy tofu pieces back into the pan.

    Step 2.1: Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine
  5. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors.

  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro or Thai basil and serve hot with rice or noodles.

Tips & Tricks

  1. For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in soy sauce before coating with cornstarch.

  2. Adjust the level of chili flakes to suit your spice preference.