Creamy Coconut Spinach Tofu

This dish meets indulgent creaminess with plant-based nutrition. The slight astringency of spinach is perfectly softened by silky coconut cream, while sautéed onions and cumin add a depth of flavor that tastes slow-cooked. Topped with crispy tofu cubes, it's the perfect balance of texture and flavor in one pan.
🕒 Prep Time 15 mins
🍳 Cook Time 20 mins
Total Time 35 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 340 kcal
🌍 Cuisine International

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Paper towels

Allergen Information

⚠️ Soy
⚠️ Tree Nuts (Coconut)

Instructions

1

Wrap tofu in paper towels, press out water, then cut into 3/4-inch cubes. Salt lightly.

Tip: Removing water is crucial for a crispy result.
2

Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tofu until golden brown on all sides (6-8 mins), then remove to a plate.

Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan; leave space between cubes to fry, not steam.
3

Wash spinach thoroughly. Finely chop the onion and crush the garlic.

4

In the same pan (add more oil if needed), sauté onion over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until soft.

Tip: Caramelizing the onion gives the dish a sweet base.
5

Add crushed garlic and cumin. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.

Tip: Spices dissolve best in fat, releasing their aroma ('blooming').
6

Add spinach. It looks like a lot, but will collapse in 1-2 minutes from the heat.

Tip: Heat weakens cell walls, releasing water (wilting).
7

Pour in coconut cream, season with salt and pepper. Simmer on low for 4-5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.

Tip: Boiling evaporates water, making the sauce creamier.
8

Return fried tofu to the sauce, toss to warm through but don't cook longer to keep it crispy.

9

Sprinkle with fresh parsley when serving.

Tip: Fresh herbs add a bright note to the creamy dish.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes! Let it thaw and squeeze out water thoroughly before adding to the pan, or it will dilute the creamy sauce.
I don't like coconut, what can I substitute?
You can use neutral plant-based cooking cream (oat or rice), or regular heavy cream if you aren't vegan.

Ingredients

  • 14 oz Firm Tofu
  • 10 oz Fresh Spinach Leaves
  • 3/4 cup Coconut Cream
  • 1 medium Onion
  • 3 cloves Garlic
  • 3 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1/2 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Pepper
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (for garnish)