If you're on the hunt for a fresh, vibrant, and punchy dinner, look no further than this Garlicky Tofu with Cilantro Sauce. It’s bold, herby, just the right amount of spicy, and happens to be totally plant-based.
Whether you’re a tofu newbie or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers big-time flavor with minimal effort. It’s great over rice, tucked into wraps, or just eaten straight out of the pan.
Why You’ll Love This Garlicky Tofu
- 🌱 Super Fresh: Cilantro and scallions bring zippy brightness
- 🧄 Big on Flavor: Garlic takes center stage (in the best way)
- 🕒 Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes
- 🧘♀️ Healthy Yet Satisfying: Light, protein-rich, and comforting
- 🥡 Versatile: Make it saucy for bowls, dry for wraps, or spicy to taste
Other Tofu Recipes
- Easy Weeknight One Pot Vegan Cheesy Tofu & Veggies
- Creamy Vegan Cheesy Miso Tofu & Vegetables Recipe
- Boiled Tofu with Ginger, Garlic, and Scallion
- Easy Vegan Chicken Tikka Masala (Tofu)
- Crispy Vegan Cheesy Tofu
- Panda Express Tofu & Eggplant Recipe
What You’ll Need
- Scallions: Bright, oniony crunch that balances the tofu and sauce
- Cilantro: Fresh, herby backbone of the green sauce
- Garlic: Aromatic, punchy, and essential for depth
- Seasonings: Think soy sauce, chili flakes, black pepper, and maybe a dash of lime
- Sesame Oil: Adds nutty, toasty richness and that restaurant-style aroma
- Tofu: Firm or extra firm for best texture—acts as both protein and sauce base
How to Make Garlicky Tofu with Cilantro Sauce
1. Sear the Tofu
Cut your tofu into cubes and sear in a hot pan with sesame oil. Let it crisp up golden-brown on all sides. Remove a portion for blending later.
2. Add Garlic & Scallions
To the hot pan, add minced garlic and chopped scallions. Stir quickly so the garlic doesn’t burn but gets lightly golden and fragrant.
3. Make the Cilantro Sauce
In a blender, combine fresh cilantro, some of the seared tofu, sesame oil, seasonings, and a splash of water or broth. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust—add more tofu for a thicker dip-like consistency, or more liquid for a drizzle-able sauce.
4. Bring It All Together
Pour the cilantro sauce over the seared tofu in the pan and toss to coat. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until warmed through and beautifully green.
Variations & Substitutions
- No Cilantro? Swap with fresh parsley or basil for a different herby note.
- Add Heat: Throw in a jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce into the blender.
- Make it Creamy: Add avocado or a spoon of tahini for a thicker sauce.
- Protein Swap: Try tempeh, seitan, or even chickpeas instead of tofu.
- Low-Sodium: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce or tamari.
Top Tip for Next-Level Flavor
Press your tofu first. Removing excess moisture lets it crisp up beautifully and soak up all that saucey goodness later. Use a tofu press or wrap in paper towels and weigh it down for 15 minutes.
Hint: Sauce Too Thin or Too Thick?
If your cilantro sauce turns out too thin, add more tofu or a spoon of nut butter.
Too thick? Just splash in a bit of water or lime juice to get it moving again.
FAQs About Garlicky Tofu with Cilantro Sauce
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store the tofu and sauce separately. Reheat and combine when ready to serve.
2. Is this freezer-friendly?
The tofu can be frozen, but the cilantro sauce is best fresh for maximum color and flavor.
3. Can I use soft tofu?
Soft tofu won’t hold its shape when seared, but can be used in the sauce for a creamier texture.
4. What should I serve it with?
Steamed rice, quinoa, noodles, lettuce wraps, or tucked into a pita—it’s super versatile!
5. Can I make this oil-free?
You can dry-fry the tofu and skip the sesame oil, but you’ll miss out on some depth of flavor.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.
Ready to Try It?
This Garlicky Tofu with Cilantro Sauce is proof that plant-based meals can be fast, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re prepping a quick dinner or jazzing up your lunch bowl, it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Garlicky Tofu with Cilantro Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 block 14–16 oz firm or extra-firm tofu – crispy when seared, also used in the sauce
- 4 –5 cloves fresh garlic minced – brings bold, aromatic flavor
- 4 stalks scallions chopped – adds freshness and a mild onion bite
- 1 large bunch fresh cilantro – the star of the green sauce herby and vibrant
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – umami-rich seasoning for both tofu and sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – for toasty depth and searing the tofu
- 1 tablespoon optional lime juice – adds a zesty tang to balance the sauce
- ¼ teaspoon optional crushed red pepper – for a gentle spicy kick
- 2 –4 tablespoons water or vegetable broth – to adjust the sauce's texture
- Salt and black pepper to taste – essential final touch for seasoning
Instructions
Sear the Tofu
- Cut your tofu into cubes and sear in a hot pan with sesame oil. Let it crisp up golden-brown on all sides. Remove a portion for blending later.
Add Garlic & Scallions
- To the hot pan, add minced garlic and chopped scallions. Stir quickly so the garlic doesn’t burn but gets lightly golden and fragrant.
Make the Cilantro Sauce
- In a blender, combine fresh cilantro, some of the seared tofu, sesame oil, seasonings, and a splash of water or broth. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust—add more tofu for a thicker dip-like consistency, or more liquid for a drizzle-able sauce.
Bring It All Together
- Pour the cilantro sauce over the seared tofu in the pan and toss to coat. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until warmed through and beautifully green.
