Yellow Curry with Tofu Recipe
Introduction
This vibrant Yellow Curry with Tofu is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender vegetables and protein-rich tofu simmered in a creamy coconut curry sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you want something fragrant and satisfying.

Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small yellow onion (sliced)
- 1 large red bell pepper (sliced)
- 2 carrots (sliced)
- 2 large Yukon Gold potatoes (about 1 pound, cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces)
- ⅓ cup yellow curry paste
- 2 (13.5-ounce) cans full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups bite-sized broccoli pieces
- 1 (16-ounce) block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 6 cups cooked white or brown rice
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion, red bell pepper, and carrots, and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the bell pepper is tender.
- Step 2: Add the potatoes and yellow curry paste to the pot. Sauté for another 3 to 4 minutes to let the flavors develop.
- Step 3: Pour in the coconut milk and stir in the brown sugar, salt, and red chili pepper flakes. Mix well to combine.
- Step 4: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Step 5: Add the broccoli pieces and tofu cubes to the pot. Continue simmering, covered, for an additional 15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the tofu is heated through.
- Step 6: Serve the curry hot over cooked white or brown rice.
Tips & Variations
- Try swapping the tofu for chicken or chickpeas for different protein options.
- If you prefer a milder curry, reduce or omit the red chili pepper flakes.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Use leftover vegetables like snap peas or cauliflower for added variety.
Storage
Store any leftover curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if the curry has thickened.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of curry paste?
Yes, you can substitute yellow curry paste with red or green curry paste, but the flavor and heat level will vary. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Is it necessary to press the tofu before cooking?
Pressing the tofu helps remove excess moisture, allowing it to absorb more flavor and have a firmer texture, but it’s not strictly necessary if you’re short on time.
PrintYellow Curry with Tofu Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful Yellow Curry with Tofu featuring a rich coconut milk base, aromatic yellow curry paste, and a medley of vegetables simmered to tender perfection. This vegetarian and vegan-friendly dish is perfect served over steamed white or brown rice for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 large Yukon Gold potatoes (about 1 pound), cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups bite-sized broccoli pieces
Tofu
- 1 16-ounce block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized cubes
Liquids and Pastes
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- ⅓ cup yellow curry paste
- 2 13.5-ounce cans full-fat coconut milk
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)
Serve With
- 6 cups cooked white or brown rice
Instructions
- Heat the oil and sauté vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion, red bell pepper, and carrots. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the bell pepper becomes tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add potatoes and curry paste: Stir in the bite-sized Yukon Gold potatoes and yellow curry paste. Cook together for another 3 to 4 minutes to allow the potatoes to absorb the flavors and the curry paste to become fragrant.
- Add coconut milk and seasonings: Pour in the full-fat coconut milk. Stir in the brown sugar, salt, and red chili pepper flakes, ensuring all ingredients are well combined to create a rich, flavorful base.
- Simmer curry: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 15 minutes to tenderize the potatoes and meld the flavors together.
- Add broccoli and tofu and continue simmering: Add the bite-sized broccoli pieces and cubed extra-firm tofu to the pot. Cover and simmer for an additional 15 minutes so the broccoli softens slightly and the tofu absorbs the curry flavors.
- Serve: Spoon the yellow curry over cooked white or brown rice and enjoy a warm, comforting meal.
Notes
- Adjust the red chili flakes to control the heat intensity to your preference.
- Extra-firm tofu works best as it holds its shape during simmering.
- You can substitute vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal taste.
- For a nuttier flavor, garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving.
- Use low-sodium broth instead of water if you prefer a richer base or to add more depth.
Keywords: yellow curry, tofu curry, vegan curry, coconut milk curry, Thai yellow curry, vegetable curry recipe

