| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 16g | 3g | 28g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 12g | 5g | 18g | 1.2g |
Why I Love Thai Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce
There is something extraordinary about the blend of flavors and textures in my favorite Thai-inspired dish, Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce, that truly satisfies. This savory treat began as a way for me to reconnect with my Californian roots while exploring the vibrant culinary treasures of Asian cuisine.
How it All Began
This journey began when I discovered Thai cuisine during my travels. I was enamored by the dynamic layering of flavors found in dishes like Authentic Pad Thai and Thai Red Curry. The delicious complexity that these recipes bring to the table inspired my culinary exploits and they, inevitably, led me to the creation of the Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce.
A Foodie’s Fusion
What makes this recipe so special is that it takes a core Californian principle – healthy, fresh ingredients – and unites it with the piquant vibrancy of Thai cuisine. As we Californians do, I tweaked the original heavily meat-based Satay and introduced tofu as the main protein. Much like renowned chef Nigella Lawson, I believe in the power of tofu to transform a dish into a healthier yet delicious version of itself. Perfectly marinated and grilled, tofu offers a lighter alternative without forgoing the filling factor.
And then, there’s the peanut sauce, always the star of the show. Just like the perfect glass of Chardonnay – mildly sweet, slightly tangy, with a dash of spice – complements a summer salad, this peanut sauce plays the perfect accompaniment role to the main attraction. It brings the much-needed zing without eclipsing the subtle flavor of our tofu satay.
Serving Suggestions
You can easily pair this dish with a refreshing green salad or a side of black rice salad with mango and peanuts. Either way, it’s a versatile ensemble that complements various meal plans.
Whether it’s being enjoyed under the bright Californian sun, or savored amidst the bustling dinner table filled with my three adopted children’s laughter, the Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce is a testament to how food can serve as a melting pot of cultures, flavors, and stories. I hope you’ll enjoy and love this recipe just as much as we do!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients for Tofu Satay:
- 2 blocks of firm tofu (14 ounces per block)
- 1 cup of coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of minced fresh ginger
- 4 cloves of minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon of raw sugar
- 2 teaspoons of turmeric
- 1 teaspoon of hot chilli powder
- 12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 20 minutes
Ingredients for Peanut Sauce:
- 1 cup of smooth peanut butter
- 1/2 cup of coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of lime juice
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons of chili flakes
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
Method
Recipe Method:
Step One:
Drain the blocks of tofu, wrap in a clean towel and place a heavy item on top to press out excess water. Leave for 15-20 minutes then cut into large chunks suitable for skewering.
Step Two:
In a large bowl, combine the coconut milk, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, raw sugar, turmeric, and hot chilli powder. Mix well, then add in the tofu chunks. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to over night.
Step Three:
Prepare the peanut sauce by mixing the peanut butter with coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, chilli flakes and minced garlic. Set aside.
Step Four:
Thread the tofu pieces onto pre-soaked bamboo skewers, then grill or barbecue until lightly charred and golden on all sides.
Step Five:
Serve your Tofu Satay warm with the Peanut Sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
