Picture this: the sun is setting, and the glorious scent of grilled tofu fills the air, mingling with the rich aroma of peanut sauce simmering on the stove. I was craving something vibrant and flavorful, yet easy to whip up after a long day. That’s when the idea of making Thai Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce struck me—a delightful fusion of creamy coconut and zesty curry that knows how to impress not just guests, but my own taste buds as well!
This recipe has transformed our weeknight dinners into a culinary journey and brought a touch of the exotic right into my kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone looking to break away from the fast food trap, these skewers promise to deliver on flavor and satisfaction, without the fuss. Plus, the marinating time allows you to prep those side dishes or simply relax, knowing dinner is a delicious adventure in the making. So grab your skewers, and let’s elevate your home cooking game with this simple yet spectacular dish!
Why is Thai Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce So Special?
Irresistible flavors: This dish combines rich coconut milk and zesty curry for a unique taste that’ll excite your palate.
Quick prep: With just 30 minutes of marinating, you can set aside time for your other favorites or enjoy a break.
Healthy indulgence: Packed with plant-based protein, it’s a satisfying option to replace boring fast food.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering, these skewers are sure to impress your guests.
Versatile pairing: Serve them with rice, salads, or on their own for a delightful plant-based meal.
These Thai Tofu Skewers with Peanut Sauce are not just a meal; they’re an experience waiting to happen!
Thai Tofu Satay Ingredients
For the Skewers
• 500 g extra firm tofu – Perfect for grilling and holds its shape beautifully.
• 10 skewers – Bamboo skewers work best; soak them in water to prevent burning.
For the Marinade
• 1/2 cup coconut milk – Adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness to the tofu.
• 1 heaped tsp red thai curry paste – Brings that authentic Thai flavor to your dish.
• 1 tbsp maple syrup – A natural sweetener that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 tbsp soy sauce – For that umami kick which pairs perfectly with the tofu.
• 1/2 tsp garlic granules – Easy way to incorporate garlic flavor without the peeling.
• 1/3 tsp salt – Balance and enhance the flavors of the marinade.
For the Peanut Sauce
• 3/4 cup coconut milk – Keeps the sauce creamy and rich.
• 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter – The star of the show, providing that delicious nuttiness!
• 1 heaped tbsp red thai curry paste (for peanut sauce) – Introduces warmth and depth.
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (for peanut sauce) – Ties the sauce flavors together.
• 2 tbsp maple syrup (for peanut sauce) – Ensures the sauce has a lovely balance of sweet and savory.
• 1/2 cup water (for peanut sauce) – Used to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
• Pinch of salt (for peanut sauce) – Fine-tunes the flavor of the sauce.
For Garnish
• Fresh coriander – Adds a fresh, herbal note to your finished dish.
• Chopped peanuts – Provide crunch and are a fabulous textural contrast.
Get ready to enjoy this Thai Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce that’s sure to brighten up any mealtime!
How to Make Thai Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce
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Cut the tofu: Start by slicing the extra firm tofu into 1.5-inch pieces and place them in a large bowl. This size allows for a perfect balance between cooking and flavor absorption!
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Prepare the marinade: In another bowl, mix together the coconut milk, red Thai curry paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic granules, and salt. Drizzle this luscious mixture over the tofu pieces, tossing gently to ensure they’re coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
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Make the peanut sauce: Combine the peanut sauce ingredients in a pan—coconut milk, peanut butter, red Thai curry paste, soy sauce, maple syrup, water, and a pinch of salt. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened. If you prefer a thinner consistency, simply add a splash more water!
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Assemble the skewers: After the marinating time, take the tofu pieces and thread them onto the skewers, aiming for 3-4 tofu pieces per skewer. They’re ready for grilling now!
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Grill the skewers: Heat a griddle pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Cook the skewers for a few minutes on each side until they get beautifully charred. The outside should be golden brown and enticing!
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Baste and flip: Pour over any remaining marinade just before flipping the tofu. Depending on the size of your pan, you might need to cook them in two batches to achieve that perfect char.
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Garnish and serve: Once done, sprinkle the skewers with fresh coriander, chopped peanuts, and that delightful peanut sauce for serving. Your vibrant dish is now ready to shine on your dinner table!
Optional: Serve with rice or a fresh salad for an extra colorful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Thai Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce?
Imagine a cozy dinner where each bite transports you to a street market in Thailand, bursting with vibrant flavors and aromas.
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Jasmine Rice: Its fluffy and fragrant texture pairs wonderfully with the rich peanut sauce, making every mouthful a delight.
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Crispy Asian Slaw: A crunchy medley of cabbage, carrots, and herbs drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and a lovely contrast.
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Grilled Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant, lightly charred, will enhance the smoky flavor of the skewers. It’s a garden on a plate!
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Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet, creamy dish echoes the coconut in the marinade and complements the savory notes perfectly.
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Peanut Noodles: For those craving a carb fix, stir-fried noodles with a light peanut dressing will create an exciting interplay of textures and flavors.
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Mango Salad: The sweet, juicy mango slices provide a refreshing contrast to the savory skewers and add a tropical twist to your meal.
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Lemongrass Iced Tea: This fragrant beverage with its zesty notes complements the dish beautifully while providing a refreshing lift.
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Lime Sorbet: End your meal on a sweet and tangy note. The coolness of sorbet cleanses the palate while echoing the citrus undertones in the peanut sauce.
Choosing any of these pairings will elevate your dining experience, turning dinner into a vibrant culinary celebration!
How to Store and Freeze Thai Tofu Satay
Fridge: Store leftover Thai Tofu Satay in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the tofu flavorful and prevents it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the marinated tofu skewers uncooked for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Reheating: To enjoy thawed cooked skewers, warm them up in a skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, or until heated through. Add a splash of water to avoid drying out.
Peanut Sauce Storage: Keep any leftover peanut sauce in the fridge for up to a week, stored in an airtight container. Stir well before using.
Thai Tofu Satay Variations
Customize your Thai Tofu Satay experience with these exciting twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced fresh chilies or a few dashes of sriracha to the marinade for a fiery heat.
- Lemon Zest: Incorporate the zest of a fresh lime into the marinade to bring a zesty brightness to the flavor.
- Vegetable Skewers: Mix in colorful bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for a vibrant veggie boost alongside the tofu.
- Maple Swap: Use agave syrup instead of maple syrup to maintain that sweetness while being allergy-friendly.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute smooth sunflower seed butter for peanut butter if you’re avoiding nuts; it’s just as creamy and delicious!
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh basil or mint alongside the coriander for an aromatic herbaceous lift.
- Coconut Rice: Serve the skewers on a bed of coconut rice to enhance the tropical flavors and make it a complete meal.
- Mango Salsa: Top the skewers with a refreshing mango salsa for a fruity contrast that brightens every bite.
With these variations, you can take your Thai Tofu Satay to new heights, ensuring every dinner is a delightful surprise!
Expert Tips for Thai Tofu Satay
Marinate Well: Use a longer marinating time, if possible, to ensure the tofu soaks up all the rich flavors from the marinade, enhancing your Thai Tofu Satay immensely.
Perfectly Cut Tofu: Aim for uniform 1.5-inch pieces when slicing tofu. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption, so don’t rush this step!
Grill with Care: Keep an eye on your skewers while grilling. Too high heat can cause burning; medium-high heat helps achieve that beautiful char without drying out the tofu.
Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your peanut sauce thickens too much, simply add a bit more water until you reach your desired creamy texture. Trial and error is perfectly fine!
Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the garnishes! Fresh coriander and chopped peanuts add a burst of flavor and lovely crunch, elevating your dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Thai Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the tofu up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to truly penetrate the tofu. Just remember to refrigerate the marinating tofu to maintain its quality. Additionally, the peanut sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; simply reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of water if needed. When it’s time to serve, thread the marinated tofu onto skewers and grill them fresh for that irresistible char while enjoying the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss!
Thai Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right tofu?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using extra firm tofu, which holds its shape beautifully when grilled. Look for tofu that is well-pressed and has a firm texture without any excess water. You can tell it’s fresh if it has a clean, neutral smell, and make sure there are no dark spots all over the packaging.
How should I store leftovers?
Very good question! Store any leftover Thai Tofu Satay in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the tofu flavorful and prevents it from drying out. It’s best to keep the peanut sauce separate to preserve its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze the skewers?
Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze the marinated tofu skewers uncooked for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.
What should I do if the tofu is too soft?
If you find your tofu isn’t firm enough, try pressing it before marinating! Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel, place it on a plate, and weigh it down with a heavy object for about 15-30 minutes. This will help remove excess moisture, resulting in firmer tofu that absorbs more flavor.
Can I use an alternative for peanuts due to allergies?
Certainly! If you or your guests have a peanut allergy, sunflower seed butter or almond butter can be a fantastic alternative for the peanut sauce. Each offers a unique twist while still maintaining that rich creaminess we love. Just keep in mind that flavor profiles may vary slightly!
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Great question! To make this Thai Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Both options provide a similar umami flavor without gluten, making it a safe choice for those with dietary restrictions.
Savor the Best Thai Tofu Satay with Creamy Peanut Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the tofu into 1.5-inch pieces and place them in a large bowl.
- In another bowl, mix together the coconut milk, red Thai curry paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic granules, and salt. Drizzle this over the tofu and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Combine the peanut sauce ingredients in a pan and simmer until thickened, adjusting water for consistency.
- Thread marinated tofu onto skewers, aiming for 3-4 pieces per skewer.
- Heat a griddle pan over medium-high heat, add oil, and grill skewers until charred.
- Baste with remaining marinade before flipping.
- Garnish skewers with fresh coriander, chopped peanuts, and serve with peanut sauce.