If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make, this Thai Basil Tofu Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with fragrant Thai basil, bold spices, and crispy tofu cubes, it captures the essence of authentic Thai street food right in your own kitchen. The quick cook time and simple ingredients make it perfect for weeknight dinners, yet impressive enough to share with friends or family. Trust me, once you make this delightfully saucy, herb-infused tofu, it will quickly become one of your go-to meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem straightforward, but they play crucial roles in creating the perfect harmony of taste and texture in this Thai Basil Tofu Recipe. Each item was carefully chosen to bring bursts of flavor, a hint of heat, and that fresh, aromatic punch from the basil.
- Firm tofu (14 oz): Pressed and cubed for that ideal crispy outside and tender inside texture.
- Vegetable oil (2 tbsp): For frying the tofu golden and stir-frying the aromatics.
- Red bell pepper (1, sliced): Adds vibrant color and a mild sweet crunch to the dish.
- Small onion (1, sliced): Brings subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Packs an irresistible aroma and flavor foundation.
- Thai bird’s eye chilies (1–2, chopped): Adjust these to your spice preference for that signature spicy kick.
- Soy sauce (1 tbsp): Provides saltiness and umami that ties the sauce together.
- Oyster sauce or vegetarian oyster sauce (1 tbsp): Adds complex, savory notes without overpowering the basil’s vibrancy.
- Sugar (1 tbsp): Balances the salty and spicy elements for a well-rounded flavor.
- Ground black pepper (1/2 tsp): Offers a subtle heat and earthiness.
- Fresh Thai basil leaves (1/4 cup, packed): The star herb that gives this dish its unmistakable Thai flair.
- Water (1 tbsp): Helps adjust the sauce consistency just right.
- Rice: Steamed, to serve and soak up all the delicious sauce.
How to Make Thai Basil Tofu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the tofu
First things first, press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture – this is key to achieving a satisfyingly crisp texture. Once pressed, cut the tofu into cubes about one inch each to ensure even cooking and easy bite-sized portions.
Step 2: Fry the tofu
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok. Add the tofu cubes, letting them sizzle and turn golden on all sides. This should take about 8 to 10 minutes. The tofu will develop a crispy outer layer, giving a delightful contrast to the soft interior. Once done, remove it from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the aromatics
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic, chopped Thai bird’s eye chilies, and sliced onions. Stir-fry these ingredients for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the onions start to soften. This step is where the beautiful scents come alive and set the scene for the rest of the dish.
Step 4: Build the sauce
Mix in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and ground black pepper, making sure everything combines nicely. Let the flavors marry for another couple of minutes as the sauce thickens just a bit and becomes irresistibly aromatic.
Step 5: Combine tofu and veggies
Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and toss to coat it well with the rich sauce and sautéed vegetables. Add the sliced red bell pepper and cook everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes. The bell pepper should soften slightly but retain its crisp texture, adding perfect contrast in each bite.
Step 6: Finish with fresh Thai basil
Toss in the fresh Thai basil leaves at the very end and stir for 1 more minute. The basil wilts quickly, releasing that iconic herbal fragrance that elevates the entire dish with fresh, bright notes.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy!
Plate your Thai Basil Tofu with steaming hot rice to soak up every bit of the tasty sauce. Now it’s time to dig in and savor the wonderful balance of spicy, sweet, savory, and fresh flavors in this classic Thai Basil Tofu Recipe.
How to Serve Thai Basil Tofu Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some additional fresh Thai basil leaves or a handful of chopped scallions over the dish for a pop of color and freshness. A wedge of lime on the side adds a zesty hint of acidity that brightens the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve this dish alongside simple steamed jasmine rice, sticky rice, or even quinoa for a wholesome meal. A crunchy Asian slaw or lightly pickled vegetables can offer a refreshing contrast, while a bowl of miso soup complements the meal with warm, soothing flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or switch things up, try serving the Thai Basil Tofu in small lettuce cups for a fun, handheld experience. Alternatively, pile the tofu on a bed of sautéed noodles with a drizzle of chili oil for a fusion twist that keeps all your favorite elements in one delicious bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover Thai Basil Tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tofu will retain much of its flavor, though it may soften slightly as the sauce continues to mingle with the tofu overnight.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to save portions for busy days. Place the tofu and sauce in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the Thai Basil Tofu in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much during storage. Avoid microwaving to keep that satisfying tofu texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tofu for the Thai Basil Tofu Recipe?
Firm or extra-firm tofu is best because it holds its shape well and crisps up nicely. Silken tofu won’t work well here as it is too delicate and will break apart during cooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap the oyster sauce for a vegetarian mushroom-based oyster sauce or a soy-based alternative, and you’re good to go without losing any flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
The Thai bird’s eye chilies give this recipe a moderate to high heat level, but you can easily adjust the amount or remove the seeds to suit your spice tolerance.
Can I substitute Thai basil with regular basil?
While regular basil can be used in a pinch, fresh Thai basil has a unique anise-like flavor that defines this dish. For an authentic taste, it’s worth finding Thai basil if you can.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to experiment by adding snap peas, baby corn, or green beans for extra crunch and variety. Just add them alongside the bell peppers and adjust cooking time as needed.
Final Thoughts
This Thai Basil Tofu Recipe is a true winner in the kitchen: it’s quick, packed with flavor, and wonderfully comforting. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, it delivers a delicious, colorful meal that celebrates the best of Thai flavors with every bite. Give it a try and I promise, it will earn a special spot in your recipe rotation.
Print
Thai Basil Tofu Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2.2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful and vibrant Thai Basil Tofu recipe featuring crispy pan-fried tofu stir-fried with fresh Thai basil, aromatic garlic, fiery bird’s eye chilies, and colorful bell pepper. This quick and easy stir-fry offers a delicious vegetarian twist on a classic Thai favorite, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal served over steamed rice.
Ingredients
Tofu and Vegetables
- 14 oz firm tofu (pressed and cut into cubes)
- 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)
Sauces and Seasoning
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 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
- 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (packed)
- 1 tbsp water (to adjust sauce consistency)
For Serving
- Rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into cubes and set aside to ensure it fries evenly and crisps nicely.
- 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 until golden and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside to keep it crisp.
- Sauté aromatics and vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic, Thai bird’s eye chilies, and sliced onion. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the onions start to soften.
- Add sauces and seasoning: Stir in the soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Mix everything together and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to become fragrant and slightly thicken.
- Combine tofu and vegetables: Return the fried tofu to the skillet. Stir to coat the tofu evenly with the sauce and aromatics. Add the sliced red bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bell pepper is tender but retains a slight crispness.
- Add fresh basil: Stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves and cook for 1 more minute until the basil wilts and releases its fragrant aroma.
- Serve: Serve the Thai Basil Tofu hot with steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use vegetarian oyster sauce instead of regular oyster sauce.
- Adjust the number of bird’s eye chilies to control spice level.
- Pressing the tofu is crucial to achieve a crispy texture when frying.
- You can add other vegetables such as snap peas or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
