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Warm Tofu with Spicy Garlic Sauce Recipe

Warm Tofu with Spicy Garlic Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 149 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Warm Tofu with Spicy Garlic Sauce is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that features soft tofu topped with a zesty, savory sauce made from garlic, chili, soy sauce, and green onions. It’s an easy vegetarian main course or side that comes together in just minutes, offering bold flavors and satisfying protein.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Tofu

  • 1 (14 oz/400g) block silken or soft tofu

For the Spicy Garlic Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chili oil (with chili flakes)
  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon grated ginger

To Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Extra sliced green onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tofu: Carefully remove the silken tofu from its packaging and drain any liquid. Place the block on a heatproof plate. If desired, gently pat it dry with a paper towel.
  2. Warm the Tofu: Steam the tofu for 5-7 minutes until heated through, or microwave for 1-2 minutes in 30-second intervals. Take care not to overcook, as silken tofu is very delicate. Set aside.
  3. Make the Spicy Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, chili oil, sesame oil, minced garlic, sugar, rice vinegar, and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Mix in the sliced green onions and, if using, grated ginger.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Pour the spicy garlic sauce evenly over the warm tofu, letting the sauce run down the sides. Top with toasted sesame seeds and extra green onions for garnish.
  5. Serve: Serve immediately while warm. Enjoy this dish on its own, or as a protein-rich accompaniment to rice or noodles.

Notes

  • Use the freshest silken or soft tofu for best texture and flavor.
  • Adjust the chili oil quantity to suit your preferred spice level.
  • If microwaving, cover the tofu with a microwave-safe plate to prevent splattering.
  • The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • For a gluten-free version, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 block tofu with sauce
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg