Coconut & Peanut Soup with Tofu brings together pantry staples into a deeply satisfying bowl that feels both nourishing and full of character. The combination of coconut milk and peanuts is widely used across Southeast Asian cooking, where rich bases meet bold seasoning for layered flavour.
This coconut peanut tofu soup stands out for its balance. The creaminess from coconut milk softens the nuttiness of peanuts, while tofu adds protein and a mild texture that absorbs the broth beautifully. The addition of ginger and garlic keeps the base lively without overpowering the core ingredients.
For everyday cooking, this dish works well during cooler evenings or when you need something warm yet not too heavy. It also adapts easily to meal prep, as the flavours deepen after resting, making it a reliable choice for a quick reheated meal.
Pat the tofu dry thoroughly using a clean cloth to remove excess moisture. Heat a little oil in a pan and place the cubes in a single layer. Cook until each side turns lightly golden, which helps firm up the texture and prevents breaking later.
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Build flavour base
In a deep pan, heat the remaining oil and add chopped garlic and ginger. Let them release aroma without browning too much. Add finely chopped onion and cook until it softens and turns slightly translucent.
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Cook vegetables
Add thinly sliced carrot to the pan and sauté briefly. The idea is to soften it slightly while retaining a bit of bite, which adds contrast to the creamy soup later.
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Add liquids
Pour in vegetable stock and bring it to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and slowly stir in coconut milk, ensuring it blends smoothly without splitting.
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Add peanut base
Lightly crush the roasted peanuts and add them along with the peanut butter. Stir continuously so the peanut butter melts into the broth, creating a thicker, nutty base.
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Season soup
Add soy sauce, red chilli flakes, and salt. Let the soup simmer gently so the flavours combine well and the broth thickens slightly.
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Add tofu
Add the pan-fried tofu cubes to the soup and let them cook for a few minutes. This allows the tofu to absorb coconut and peanut flavours without losing its structure.
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Finish and serve
Turn off the heat and stir in lemon juice for a light contrast. Add fresh coriander leaves just before serving to keep the flavour fresh and bright.
Yes, this soup stores well, and the flavours deepen after resting. Reheat gently on low heat and stir occasionally to maintain its smooth consistency.
Coconut milk provides natural richness, while peanut butter adds body. Together, they create a smooth texture without needing cream or other dairy ingredients.
Light frying helps tofu hold its shape and prevents it from becoming too soft. It also improves its ability to absorb the surrounding flavours.
If the soup thickens too much, add a small amount of warm vegetable stock or water while reheating. Stir well to bring it back to the desired consistency.