Crispy Coconut Crusted Tofu with Pineapple Sauce

Name: Crispy Coconut Crusted Tofu with Pineapple Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves approximately four
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu; 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs (or 2 flax eggs for vegan); 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks; 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup; 2 tbsp lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying

Published: July 30, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This crispy coconut crusted tofu is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
The flavor profile combines savory and sweet, creating a mesmerizing taste experience
Its vibrant presentation will make any table pop with color and excitement
Whether served as an appetizer or main course, this dish shines in versatility

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family during one of our epic summer get-togethers. The kids were skeptical at first, but once they tasted it, they couldn’t get enough! Their giggles filled the air as they fought over the last piece. For more inspiration, check out this lemonade punch recipe recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Firm Tofu: Choose high-quality firm tofu for the best texture; extra-firm works wonders too.
Unsweetened Coconut Flakes: Opt for large flakes for extra crunch and tropical flair.
All-Purpose Flour: A light dusting helps the coconut adhere better to the tofu.
Eggs (or Flax Eggs): If vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs for binding.
Pineapple Chunks: Fresh pineapple adds an unbeatable sweetness; canned works in a pinch.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while adding depth of flavor. crunchy zucchini chips.
Honey or Agave Syrup: Sweetness balances out the savory elements beautifully. sticky honey gochujang chicken.
Lime Juice: A splash of acidity brightens up the entire dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Tofu: Start by draining and pressing your tofu to remove excess moisture; this step ensures maximum crispiness when cooked.

Create Your Breading Station: Set up three bowls: one with flour seasoned lightly with salt and pepper, another containing beaten eggs (or flax eggs), and finally, one filled with coconut flakes.

Bread the Tofu Cubes: Cut your pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes; dip each cube first in flour, then egg, and finally coat generously with coconut flakes.

Pan-Fry Until Golden Brown: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat; add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides—about 3-4 minutes per side.

Make Your Pineapple Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine pineapple chunks, soy sauce, honey or agave syrup, and lime juice; simmer until thickened slightly—about 5 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy!: Plate your crispy coconut crusted tofu drizzled with warm pineapple sauce; garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges if desired!

Now that you’ve got your crispy coconut crusted tofu ready to go, don’t forget to share it with loved ones! As you serve it up and watch everyone dig in eagerly, you’ll realize that cooking really does bring people together—one delicious bite at a time.

You Must Know

Crispy Coconut Crusted Tofu with Pineapple Sauce is not just a dish; it’s an experience!
The crunch of coconut combined with the sweet pineapple sauce creates a delightful harmony
Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture, then coat it with coconut and bake until crispy. While the tofu cooks, prepare the pineapple sauce for the perfect timing.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap tofu for tempeh or add chili flakes to the sauce for extra heat. Experimenting can lead to your unique twist on this recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F until warm to maintain crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve extra crunch, make sure your tofu is really well-pressed before coating
Don’t skip the baking step as it enhances flavor and texture
Consider using fresh pineapple for a vibrant taste that elevates your dish!

I once made Crispy Coconut Crusted Tofu with Pineapple Sauce for a family gathering, and everyone went back for seconds! It became an instant favorite, proving that even tofu can win hearts.