
Coconut Tamarind Rice Noodles with Crispy Tofu and Spiced Peanut Sauce
Looking for a dish that’s bold, creamy, tangy, and totally crave-worthy? This Coconut Tamarind Rice Noodles recipe is a flavor-packed adventure! With crispy tofu and a rich spiced peanut sauce, every bite is a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Let’s get cooking!
5.0 out of 5 (3 ratings)

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Cuisine
Asian Fusion
Ingredients
- •200g rice noodles
- •200g firm tofu, diced
- •2 tablespoons coconut oil
- •1/2 cup coconut milk
- •2 tablespoons tamarind paste
- •2 tablespoons soy sauce
- •1 tablespoon brown sugar
- •1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- •1/4 cup roasted peanuts, finely chopped
- •1 tablespoon sesame oil
- •1 clove garlic, minced
- •1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- •1 tablespoon lime juice
- •2 green onions, chopped
- •Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- 1
Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- 2
Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the diced tofu and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
- 3
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of coconut oil along with the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the coconut milk, tamarind paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- 5
Add the cooked rice noodles to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly in the sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste if needed.
- 6
In a small bowl, mix sesame oil, lime juice, and finely chopped roasted peanuts to create the spiced peanut sauce. Drizzle this sauce over the noodles and toss lightly.
- 7
Top the noodles with the crispy tofu, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. Garnish with additional peanuts and a squeeze of lime, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Calories
520 calories
Protein
14g
Carbs
58g
Fat
26g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of noodle for this recipe?
A: Yes, if rice noodles are not available, you can substitute them with other types of noodles like soba noodles, udon, or even spaghetti. However, the texture and flavor might vary slightly. Adjust the cooking time according to the noodle type to avoid overcooking.
Q: What can I use as a substitute for tamarind paste?
A: If you don’t have tamarind paste, you can substitute it with an equal amount of lime juice mixed with a small amount of brown sugar for a similar tangy and slightly sweet flavor. Alternatively, a mix of vinegar and sugar can also work in a pinch.
Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Additionally, double-check that all other packaged ingredients, like tamarind paste, are certified gluten-free.
Q: Why isn’t my tofu getting crispy?
A: To achieve crispy tofu, make sure you press out excess water from the tofu before cooking. You can do this by wrapping the tofu in a clean towel and placing a heavy object on top for 15-20 minutes. Also, ensure the skillet and oil are hot before adding the tofu, and don’t overcrowd the pan.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: This recipe is best served fresh, but you can prepare the components separately ahead of time. Cook the noodles, make the sauce, and prepare the tofu in advance, storing each in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, toss it with the noodles, and top with crispy tofu and garnishes.
Q: How do I store leftovers and reheat them?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the noodles in a skillet with a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce, and heat over medium heat until warmed through. Reheat the tofu separately in a skillet or oven to maintain its crispiness.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! This recipe pairs well with vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, shredded carrots, or broccoli. Sauté them in the skillet after cooking the tofu, then proceed with the recipe as written. This is a great way to add more nutrients and texture to the dish.
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