Butternut Squash & Quinoa Wok with Curried Tofu

Wok cooking is all about speed and freshness. In this recipe, the sweetness of butternut squash meets Indian curry spices, a protein bomb of fried tofu, and the earthy creaminess of tahini. Elements from different cultures (Indian spice, Middle Eastern tahini, Asian tofu) form a harmonious unity, made complete by quinoa.
🕒 Prep Time 20 mins
🍳 Cook Time 20 mins
Total Time 40 mins
🍽️ Servings 2 servings
🔥 Calories 550 kcal
🌍 Cuisine International

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Wok or deep skillet
  • Separate skillet for tofu
  • Pot for quinoa
  • Cutting board, knife

Allergen Information

⚠️ Soy (soy sauce, tofu)
⚠️ Sesame (tahini, seeds)

Instructions

1

Rinse quinoa well with hot water, then cook in double amount of salted water (approx 15 mins). Let rest covered.

Tip: Rinsing removes bitterness; resting steams it perfectly fluffy.
2

Peel and cube squash (1/2 inch). Slice onion, mince garlic and ginger.

Tip: Smaller squash cubes cook faster in the wok.
3

Cube tofu, pat dry, and toss with soy sauce and juice of half a lime. Let sit 10 mins.

Tip: Marinating flavors the neutral tofu.
4

Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet and fry tofu until golden (5-7 mins). Set aside.

Tip: High heat and patience (don't stir too much) gives a crispy crust.
5

Heat remaining 1 tbsp oil in wok. Sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic, ginger, curry, and turmeric.

Tip: Blooming spices in oil deepens flavor.
6

Add squash, toss, then pour in coconut milk. Cover and simmer until soft (10 mins).

Tip: The squash becomes creamy and flavorful cooked in coconut milk.
7

Mix tahini with remaining lime juice and a splash of water for dressing.

Tip: Silky dressing contrasts with the chunky stew.
8

Serve: quinoa base, curried squash, fried tofu on top. Drizzle with tahini, sprinkle with sesame and cilantro.

Tip: Layering makes it visually appetizing.

Recipe FAQ

Why cook tofu separately?
Because in the wok, it would get soggy from the veggies and sauce. For crispy tofu, fry separately and add at the end.
Tahini sauce too thick?
Tahini thickens with water. Add more water or lime juice until pourable.

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup Quinoa
  • 7 oz Butternut Squash
  • 7 oz Firm Tofu
  • 1 tbsp Tahini Paste
  • 3/4 cup Coconut Milk
  • 1 medium Red Onion
  • 2 cloves Garlic
  • 1 inch piece Fresh Ginger
  • 2 tsp Curry Powder
  • 1 tsp Turmeric
  • 1 whole Lime (Juice)
  • 2 sprigs Fresh Cilantro
  • 1 tbsp Black Sesame Seeds
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (divided)
  • 1 pinch Salt
  • 1 pinch Pepper
  • 1 tbsp Soy Sauce