If you’re craving a quick yet incredibly satisfying dish that bursts with flavor and freshness, this Thai Basil Tofu Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine crisp, golden tofu cubes perfectly coated in a savory, slightly sweet sauce, complemented by the aromatic punch of fresh Thai basil and a little heat from bird’s eye chilies. It’s a beautiful harmony of texture and taste, capturing the essence of Thai cooking in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a tofu lover or just looking to switch up your dinner routine, this recipe is a gem that brings vibrant colors and bold flavors to your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Thai Basil Tofu Recipe are delightfully simple yet fundamental in building layers of flavor and texture. Each one plays a key role in transforming everyday components into a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
- Firm tofu (14 oz): Pressed and cubed for that perfect balance of crispy outside and tender inside.
- Vegetable oil (2 tbsp): Ideal for frying tofu to golden perfection and sautéing vegetables without overpowering flavors.
- Red bell pepper (1, sliced): Adds a pop of sweet crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
- Small onion (1, sliced): Brings a mild sweetness and depth once sautéed.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): The fragrant foundation that awakens the palate.
- Thai bird’s eye chilies (1-2, chopped): Packs in authentic heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- Soy sauce (1 tbsp): Delivers rich umami and saltiness to the sauce.
- Oyster sauce (1 tbsp): Or vegetarian version, adds a complex, savory sweetness to the mix.
- Sugar (1 tbsp): Balances the salty and spicy notes beautifully.
- Ground black pepper (½ tsp): Gives subtle warmth and a touch of spice.
- Fresh Thai basil leaves (¼ cup, packed): The star herb that infuses the dish with its signature sweet, peppery aroma.
- Water (1 tbsp): Helps adjust the sauce consistency for a perfect glaze.
- Rice: Steamed, as the ideal base to soak up all those wonderful flavors.
How to Make Thai Basil Tofu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture—this step is essential for achieving that coveted crispy texture. Once drained, cut the tofu into evenly sized cubes so they cook uniformly. Setting them aside preps you for the next exciting stage.
Step 2: Fry the Tofu
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes carefully, frying until each side turns golden and crisp, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. This crispy tofu becomes the delicious base of your Thai Basil Tofu Recipe, providing satisfying texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender vegetables.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic, chopped Thai bird’s eye chilies, and sliced onion. Stir-fry these aromatics for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic releases its intoxicating fragrance and the onions soften just slightly. This fragrant mixture forms the heart of the sauce.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Now it’s time to bring in the savory elements by stirring in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and ground black pepper. Keep everything moving for another 2 minutes as the sauce thickens slightly and fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. This savory-sweet blend is what elevates the dish from simple stir-fry to an unforgettable meal.
Step 5: Combine the Tofu and Vegetables
Return the crispy tofu cubes to the skillet, gently stirring until they are fully coated in the flavorful sauce. Next, add the sliced red bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. The bell peppers should be tender yet still maintain a bit of crispness, adding a wonderful contrast to the dish’s textures.
Step 6: Finish with Basil
Finally, fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves and cook for just one more minute. The basil wilts quickly, releasing its signature sweet, peppery aroma that defines this Thai Basil Tofu Recipe. This last touch ties the entire dish together with a fresh pop of flavor.
How to Serve Thai Basil Tofu Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your dish with a sprinkle of extra fresh Thai basil or a handful of chopped scallions for an extra burst of freshness. For a bit of color and crunch, toasted sesame seeds are a delightful finishing touch. Adding a wedge of lime on the side allows people to squeeze in some zesty brightness that complements the rich sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
Steamed jasmine or white rice is the traditional and best companion to soak up the flavorful sauce of this Thai Basil Tofu Recipe. If you want something lighter, try pairing it with a crisp Asian cucumber salad or simple blanched greens like bok choy or Chinese broccoli. These sides balance the meal with refreshing textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Thai Basil Tofu in lettuce cups for a handheld delight that’s perfect as an appetizer or light lunch. Alternatively, incorporate it into a noodle bowl with rice noodles, shredded carrots, and a drizzle of peanut sauce to create a vibrant, colorful meal. The versatility of this dish means you can always surprise your guests with a new presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Thai Basil Tofu keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the tofu’s texture, store it separately from rice whenever possible and combine just before reheating.
Freezing
While tofu can sometimes change texture after freezing, you can freeze the cooked sauce and vegetables separately for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and freshly pan-fry some tofu cubes to bring back that crispy bite.
Reheating
Reheat the dish gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this helps keep the tofu crispy and preserves the vibrant flavors of the basil and chilies.
FAQs
Can I use another type of tofu for this Thai Basil Tofu Recipe?
Firm or extra-firm tofu works best here because it holds its shape during frying and absorbs flavors well. Silken or soft tofu is too delicate and may break apart in the stir-fry process.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level mainly depends on how many Thai bird’s eye chilies you add. You can reduce the chilis for a milder dish or add more if you crave extra heat. Remember, the basil and sweetness also help balance the spiciness.
Is oyster sauce necessary?
Oyster sauce adds a rich, slightly sweet umami flavor, but if you prefer a vegan version or don’t have it on hand, vegetarian oyster sauce or a mushroom-based sauce works wonderfully as a substitute.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the tofu and vegetables in advance, but for the best taste and texture, cook and combine everything just before serving. This ensures the tofu stays crispy and the basil stays fresh and fragrant.
What can I serve instead of rice?
This Thai Basil Tofu Recipe is great with rice noodles, quinoa, or even inside a wrap or lettuce cup for a low-carb alternative. Pick the base that suits your mood and dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that feels both comforting and exciting, and this Thai Basil Tofu Recipe does exactly that. With its fresh basil aroma, spicy warmth, and crispy tofu, it’s a wonderful weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends with minimal fuss. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try and fall in love with every bite!
Print
Thai Basil Tofu Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Thai Basil Tofu stir-fry featuring crispy tofu cubes, fresh Thai basil, and a savory sauce with garlic, chili, and bell peppers. This quick and easy dish offers a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and aromatic notes, ideal for a satisfying vegetarian meal served over steamed rice.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu (pressed and cut into cubes)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1–2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, chopped (adjust to spice preference)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or vegetarian oyster sauce for a vegan version)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp water (to adjust sauce consistency)
Herbs and Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (packed)
Serving
- Rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, which helps in achieving a crisp texture when fried. Then cut the pressed tofu into cubes and set aside.
- Fry the Tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry them until golden and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic, chopped Thai bird’s eye chilies, and sliced onion. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant and the onions start to soften.
- Add the Sauce: Stir in soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, sugar, and ground black pepper. Mix everything well and let it cook for about 2 minutes until the sauce becomes fragrant and slightly thickens.
- Combine the Tofu and Vegetables: Return the fried tofu to the skillet and stir to coat the tofu with the sauce and vegetables evenly. Add the sliced red bell pepper and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the bell pepper to become tender but retain some crispness.
- Finish with Basil: Add the fresh Thai basil leaves to the skillet and stir for 1 minute until the basil wilt and releases its aroma, enhancing the dish’s flavor.
- Serve: Serve the Thai Basil Tofu hot with steamed rice for a fulfilling and aromatic meal.
Notes
- Pressing tofu removes excess water, making it easier to fry crisp and hold texture.
- Adjust the number of Thai bird’s eye chilies based on your preferred spice level.
- Vegetarian oyster sauce is a great vegan alternative that maintains authentic flavor;
- Do not overcook red bell pepper; it should stay slightly crisp for the best texture contrast.
- This dish pairs well with jasmine or basmati rice.
