This was almost like our go-to red curry recipe, but without the red curry. And honestly, it was a few days ago that we made it, and I really don’t remember it much. It wasn’t bad, but obviously wasn’t out of this world. Searing the tofu gives it a nice color and near-crispy outside, and the sauce is, well, coconut-y. What else did you expect?
Obviously, some dishes on this blog garner more dialogue. This one, not so much. Doesn’t mean it’s not worth a try. On to the recipe!
Seared Tofu with with Green Beans and Asian Coconut Sauce
Makes 4 servings. Recipe from Epicurious.
Ingredients:
1 (14- to 16-oz) package firm tofu
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
1 tablespoon finely chopped peeled fresh ginger
1/2 teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakes
1 lb green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch-long pieces
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1/4-inch-wide strips (2 inches long)
1 teaspoon salt
1 (14- to 15-oz) can unsweetened coconut milk (not low-fat)
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/3 cup chopped salted roasted cashews
Directions:
Halve tofu lengthwise, then cut crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick slices and pat dry well. Put 1 tablespoon soy sauce in a wide shallow dish, then add tofu, turning to coat, and let stand 10 minutes. Pat tofu dry.
Heat oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over high heat until hot but not smoking, then add tofu in 1 layer and cook, turning over once, until tofu is browned, about 6 minutes total. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a large plate, reserving oil in skillet.
Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to skillet and saute, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add beans, bell pepper, and salt and saute, stirring, 1 minute.
Stir in coconut milk and remaining tablespoon soy sauce and bring to a boil, then boil, uncovered, until beans are tender, about 6 minutes. Transfer vegetables using a slotted spoon to plate with tofu.
Simmer sauce until thickened slightly and reduced to about 3/4 cup, about 2 minutes. Stir in lime juice and pour sauce over vegetables and tofu. Sprinkle with cashews.
Did you make this recipe?
Let us know what you think!
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I loved this recipe! I added 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro and basil for added punch. I also swapped out the chili flakes with a sliced Thai chili pepper because I prefer more heat. So delish!!
Hey Lindsay–Do you use a nonstick or regular skillet? Whenever I use my regular skillet to try and sear tofu, no matter how much or how little oil I put in the pan, it sticks. It drives me up a wall. Do you have a secret?
Jen
Isn’t it lovely? I picked it up at Cost Plus World Market a few weeks ago. I have a habit of buying one plate or placemat (but just one – never a whole set) wherever I go. Haha. The joys of food blogging!
I know there isn’t much to be said about that dish but you’ve arranged it wonderfully and that plate is gorgeous :)