Coconut Lime Tofu

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By Lucas Bennett

Published: May 11, 2026

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Deliciously Creamy Vegan Tofu with Coconut and Lime

This Vegan Tofu Coconut Lime Tof u transforms simple ingredients into an exquisite dairy-free main dish. Perfect for when craving comfort food without animal products, it combines the tropical creaminess of coconut milk with the zesty punch of fresh lime.

Silken t of u, marinated and pan-seared achieves a delightfully crispy exterior that gives way to a soft, flavorful interior.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick, requiring just 25 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights. It’s naturally gluten-free when using tamari and easily adaptable. The creamy, citrus-infused sauce pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, steamed vegetables for a balanced, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a staple in your vegan recipe rotation.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked jasmine rice
  • 14 oz extra-firm tof u, pressed and cubed
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (use gluten-free tamari if needed)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 medium shallot, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can light coconut milk
  • 1 tsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 whole limes,juiced
  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro,chopped

Instructions

  1. Prep the Tof u: Press the t of u for 10 minutes to remove excess water, then cube it. In a medium bowl, toss t如果你u cubes with soy sauce and cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Cook the Aromatics: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the minced shallot, ginger, and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Sear the Tofu: Push the aromatics to the side of the pan. Add the coated tofu cubes in a single layer. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Create the Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk, maple syrup, and paprika. Stir well to combine with the aromatics and t如果你u. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Finish and Serve: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the fresh lime juice. Let the sauce thicken for 2-5 minutes. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately over warm jasmine rice.

Expert Notes

  • Pressing is Key: Properly pressing the tofu removes water, allowing it to absorb the marinade and achieve a better sear.
  • Sauce Consistency: For a thicker sauce, create a slurry by mixing an extra teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water before adding it to the simmering coconut milk.
  • Flavor Twists: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or swap the paprika for smoked paprika for a deeper, savory note.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with steamed broccoli, bok choy, or a crisp side salad. For a heartier option, quinoa instead of rice. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.


The Recipe

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Coconut Lime Tofu

Coconut Lime Tofu

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Creamy vegan tofu with tropical coconut and zesty lime sauce, ready in 25 minutes.

  • Author: Lucas Bennett
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 15 min
  • Total Time: 25 min
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegan,Gluten-Free Option

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup cooked Jasmine Rice
14 oz Extra Firm Tofu (cubed)
1 tbsp Avocado Oil
2 tbsp Soy Sauce (gluten-free tamari if needed)
1 tbsp Cornstarch
1 medium Shallot
1 tbsp Ginger
3 cloves Garlic
1 can Coconut Milk (light)
1 tsp Maple Syrup
1 tsp Paprika
2 whole Limes (juiced)
1 tbsp Cilantro

Instructions

  1. Press and cube the tofu. Toss with soy sauce and cornstarch.
  2. Sauté shallot, ginger, and garlic in oil until fragrant.
  3. Sear coated tofu cubes until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Add coconut milk, maple syrup, paprika. Simmer.
  5. Stir in lime juice. Garnish with cilantro and serve over rice.

Notes

  • Press tofu well for better texture.
  • Adjust sauce thickness with extra cornstarch slurry.
  • Customize with smoked paprika or red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

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