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
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed; 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes; 1/2 cup pineapple juice (100% pure); 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour); 1/4 cup vegetable oil (canola or sunflower); 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks; 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice

Published: July 30, 2025

by Hailey parker

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This crispy coconut crusted tofu with pineapple sauce is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
The tropical flavors make it a hit at summer gatherings and barbecues
Its vibrant presentation adds beauty to your dinner table, making it visually stunning
Not only is it versatile enough for salads or rice bowls, but it’s also a sure crowd-pleaser!

I still chuckle when I think about my friend’s face after trying it; she practically begged me to make it every week!

Essential Ingredients

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

Firm Tofu: Look for high-quality firm tofu; it holds up better during frying and absorbs flavors beautifully.
Unsweetened Coconut Flakes: Opt for unsweetened flakes to control sweetness and enhance the coconut flavor without overpowering.
Pineapple Juice: Use 100% pure pineapple juice for maximum flavor without added sugars or preservatives. For more inspiration, check out this Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Burgers recipe.
Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce adds depth; low-sodium works best if you’re watching your salt intake.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps the coconut adhere to the tofu; you can use gluten-free flour if needed.
Vegetable Oil: Choose a neutral oil like canola or sunflower for frying; it lets the coconut’s flavor shine through.

For the Sauce:

Fresh Pineapple: Fresh chunks add texture and brightness; canned works in a pinch but lacks that fresh zing!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Sweetness balances the acidity of pineapple juice; use honey for richness or maple syrup for vegan options. For more inspiration, check out this Honey Chipotle Grilled Shrimp Tacos recipe.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brings zing; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it!

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

Let’s Make It Together

Preparation of Tofu: Start by draining your firm tofu well and pressing it between paper towels to remove excess moisture. Aim for about 15 minutes here to ensure crispy results.

Coconut Coating: In three separate shallow dishes, set up your breading station: one with flour seasoned lightly with salt, another with whisked eggs (or flaxseed mixture), and lastly with unsweetened coconut flakes.

Breading Tofu: Cut your pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes. Dip each piece into flour first, then egg (or flax), and finally roll them in coconut flakes until well coated.

Frying Time: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Fry tofu cubes in batches until golden brown and crispy—about 3-4 minutes per side should do!

Pineapple Sauce Preparation: While your tofu fries away happily, mix fresh pineapple chunks in a saucepan with pineapple juice, honey (or maple syrup), and freshly squeezed lime juice. Simmer over medium heat until thickened—about 5-7 minutes should suffice!

Serving Suggestions: To serve up this masterpiece, place crispy tofu on a plate and drizzle generously with your luscious pineapple sauce. refreshing marinated cucumbers If you’re feeling fancy (and who isn’t?), garnish with fresh cilantro or thinly sliced green onions!

Now gather around the table because dinner is served! Enjoy this colorful feast while reminiscing about beach vacations you’ve never taken—after all, who needs to travel when you have this tropical delight at home?

You Must Know

This crispy coconut crusted tofu with pineapple sauce is more than a meal; it’s a tropical getaway on your plate
Each bite delivers a delightful crunch paired with a sweet, tangy punch that makes your taste buds dance
Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying solo on a cozy night in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the ultimate crispiness, coat the tofu in coconut and bake it until golden brown before preparing the pineapple sauce. This ensures everything cooks evenly and flavors meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the pineapple for mango or use different nuts for added crunch. Experimenting can lead to delicious surprises that suit your taste buds perfectly.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to maintain that delightful crunch.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Make sure to press the tofu well to eliminate moisture; this step ensures maximum crispiness
You can also add spices to the coconut coating for extra flavor, like smoked paprika or garlic powder
Remember, patience is key when baking—don’t rush the cooking process!

The first time I made crispy coconut crusted tofu was during a dinner party, and my friends were amazed at how delicious it turned out. They kept asking for seconds!