Tofu with Fresh Herbs and Peanuts is like a warm hug for your taste buds. Imagine the delightful crunch of peanuts combined with silky tofu, all tossed in a fresh herb medley that practically dances on your palate. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising a flavor explosion that even your fussiest friends won’t be able to resist. For more inspiration, check out this Thai Red Curry Chicken recipe.
This dish has been my go-to for casual dinners and spontaneous gatherings. One memorable evening, I whipped it up for a group of friends who claimed to hate tofu. By the end of the night, they were begging for seconds, and I barely had leftovers! It’s a fantastic dish for potlucks or relaxed family dinners where everyone can gather around and savor each bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tofu with Fresh Herbs and Peanuts is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight cooking stress-free
- The vibrant flavors burst in every bite while looking visually stunning on any plate
- This versatile recipe can be served as an appetizer or main dish, adapting beautifully to any occasion
- Plus, it’s loaded with healthy ingredients that will leave you feeling great!
Sharing this dish always sparks laughter and smiles; it’s practically a party starter!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Firm Tofu: Opt for firm tofu for the best texture; it holds its shape during cooking and absorbs flavors well.
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Fresh Herbs: Use a mix of basil and cilantro for a refreshing pop of flavor; choose vibrant green leaves for maximum aroma.
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Unsalted Peanuts: Choose roasted unsalted peanuts for that perfect crunch; they add delightful texture and nutty flavor without overpowering.
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Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is best to control saltiness while ensuring rich umami flavor throughout the dish.
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Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors; opt for juicy limes for maximum zing in every bite.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth to the dish; chop them finely to release all their aromatic goodness.
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Olive Oil: Use quality olive oil for sautéing the tofu; it enhances the dish’s flavor profile while keeping everything nicely coated.
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Chili Flakes: A pinch of chili flakes adds just enough heat without overwhelming the other flavors; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by pressing the firm tofu between paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step ensures that when you fry it, it becomes golden brown and crispy rather than soggy. While waiting, chop your fresh herbs finely.
Sauté the Tofu
Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add cubed tofu gently into the pan without overcrowding it. Sauté until all sides turn golden brown and crispy, roughly 8-10 minutes.
Add Aromatics
Once the tofu is crispy, toss in minced garlic and chili flakes into the pan. Stir-fry them together until fragrant—about 30 seconds—being careful not to let the garlic burn.
Combine Everything
Next, pour in soy sauce and fresh lime juice over the tofu mixture. Stir well to ensure every piece gets coated with that delicious sauce, allowing it to simmer for 2-3 minutes. delicious chickpea and feta dip.
Toss in Peanuts and Herbs
Finally, add chopped peanuts and fresh herbs into the pan. Toss everything together gently until combined—this not only intensifies flavors but also creates an inviting aroma that makes you eager to dig in!
Serve Warm
Remove from heat and transfer your Tofu with Fresh Herbs and Peanuts onto a serving platter. complementary grilled vegetable side Enjoy warm as a delightful main course or side dish that’s sure to impress! light and refreshing halloumi salad. savory roasted corn side dish.
Enjoy creating this scrumptious meal that’s as fun to make as it is delicious! Let me know how yours turns out!
You Must Know
- Tofu with Fresh Herbs and Peanuts is not just delicious; it’s a powerhouse of flavor
- The combination of fresh herbs adds a vibrant aroma, while the peanuts provide satisfying crunch
- This dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cube it for even cooking. Sauté the tofu until golden brown before adding your fresh herbs and peanuts to maximize flavors.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out herbs based on your preference; basil or cilantro can bring exciting twists. You can also try different nuts like cashews for added crunch and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain crispness without drying out the tofu.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect texture, marinate the tofu for at least 30 minutes
- When sautéing, ensure oil is hot enough to create a crispy exterior
- Experiment with different herbs for unique flavor profiles that suit your taste
Cooking this dish always reminds me of my best friend’s dinner party; everyone raved about how delicious it was! It felt great hearing compliments while I happily munched on my creation.

FAQ
How can I make Tofu with Fresh Herbs and Peanuts vegan?
Use vegetable broth and ensure all ingredients are plant-based for a totally vegan dish.
What type of tofu is best for this recipe?
Extra-firm tofu works best as it holds its shape during cooking and absorbs flavors well.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead but cook just before serving for optimal freshness.
Tofu with Fresh Herbs and Peanuts
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Tofu with Fresh Herbs and Peanuts is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will elevate any meal. This easy-to-make dish features crispy tofu, crunchy peanuts, and a vibrant mix of fresh herbs, all tossed together in a savory sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe transforms even the most skeptical diners into tofu lovers. Serve it warm as a satisfying main course or an impressive side dish that guarantees smiles around the table.
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- ½ cup unsalted roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp chili flakes (to taste)
Instructions
- Press the tofu between paper towels to remove excess moisture, then cube it into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add cubed tofu and sauté for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown on all sides.
- Stir in minced garlic and chili flakes; cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Pour in soy sauce and lime juice; simmer for 2-3 minutes until well coated.
- Toss in peanuts and herbs; mix gently to combine.
- Serve warm on a platter as a delicious main or side dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg





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