15+ BEST Dipping Sauces for Tofu (Easy Recipes!)

In search of some tasty sauces for tofu? I’ve got you covered with this handy guide. From creamy sauces, to spicy sauces, tangy sauces and more!

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Tofu, with its mild flavor and versatile texture, serves as an excellent canvas for an array of delicious sauces.

Whether you’re a tofu enthusiast or looking to incorporate more plant-based options into your diet, these 15 tantalizing sauces will take your tofu dishes to the next level.

From sweet and tangy to spicy and savory, get ready to explore a world of flavors that will leave you craving more. Here’s 15+ sauces that will elevate your tofu from delish to amazzzing! 🤩 🤩 🤩

The BEST Sauces for Tofu

Overhead shot of peanut tofu on bowl of rice.
Classic Peanut Sauce
A staple in Asian cuisine, peanut sauce adds a rich and nutty flavor to your lettuce wraps. Made with peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and a touch of sweetness, this sauce pairs perfectly with lettuce wraps filled with grilled chicken or tofu.
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Overhead close up of Yumm bowl.
Yumm Sauce
Yumm Sauce is a must-try condiment. Originating from Cafe Yumm, a popular restaurant in the Pacific Northwest, this creamy and zesty sauce has gained a devoted following. Its unique combination of ingredients makes it a versatile accompaniment for tofu, bringing a burst of tanginess and creaminess to your favorite dishes.
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Buffalo tofu bites on grey speckled plate next to side of blue cheese and celery.
Buffalo Sauce
While traditionally associated with chicken, Buffalo Sauce can also take your tofu dishes to new heights by adding a fiery kick and zesty tang.
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Coconut Curry Sauce
Indulge in the exotic flavors of a coconut curry sauce with your tofu. Combine coconut milk, curry powder, ginger, garlic, and a dash of lime juice for a creamy and aromatic delight.
Get the RECIPE from The Simple Veganista
Spoon drizzling kecap manis into bowl.
Sweet Soy Sauce
Sweet soy sauce is a thick, syrupy sauce that originates from Indonesian cuisine. It has a unique balance of sweetness and umami flavors, making it an excellent choice for adding depth to your tofu.
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Overhead shot of stir fry sauce in small glass jar next to pepper flakes and whisk.
Stir Fry Sauce
Stir fry sauce is a versatile and savory option that can add depth and richness to your tofu.
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Sweet and Sour Sauce
Give your tofu a tangy twist with a classic sweet and sour sauce. Mix pineapple juice, rice vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar for a lip-smacking marinade.
Get the RECIPE from Omnivore’s Cookbook
Crema arranged on plate with limes and cilantro.
Tangy Lime Cilantro Dressing
Brighten up your tofu with a refreshing cilantro lime sauce. Blend fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt for a vibrant and citrusy accompaniment.
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Spicy Sriracha Mayo
For those who enjoy a little heat, a spicy sriracha mayo is the perfect choice. Blend mayonnaise with Sriracha sauce, lime juice, and a dash of garlic powder for a creamy and fiery sauce.
Get the RECIPE from The Recipe Critic
Ginger Sesame Sauce
A combination of toasted sesame oil, fresh ginger, soy sauce, and rice vinegar creates a zesty and aromatic sauce that adds depth of flavor to pan-fried tofu.
Get the RECIPE from Budget Bytes
Sweet Chili Sauce
Add a touch of sweetness and tanginess to your lettuce wraps with a sweet chili sauce. This versatile sauce can be made with red chili peppers, garlic, sugar, vinegar, and a hint of fish sauce. It pairs exceptionally well with lettuce wraps filled with crispy tofu.
Get the RECIPE from My Food Story
Miso Glaze
Harness the umami-rich flavors of miso by creating a delectable glaze. Whisk together miso paste, mirin, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of sweetness from honey for a mouthwatering coating.
Get the RECIPE from Healthy Simple Yum
Hoisin Glaze
Create a tantalizing glaze by mixing hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and honey. Brush it over baked tofu for a caramelized and flavorful finish.
Get the RECIPE from Elavegan
Korean BBQ Sauce
Experience the bold and savory flavors of Korean cuisine with a delectable BBQ sauce. Combine soy sauce, gochujang (Korean chili paste), garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar for an irresistible glaze.
Get the RECIPE from Chili Pepper Madness
Chimichurri sauce in small jar with spoon.
Chimichurri Sauce
Add a burst of freshness to your tofu by pairing it with zesty chimichurri sauce. Blend fresh herbs, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a vibrant and herbaceous flavor.
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How to make ahead & store

Many of these sauce recipes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days or even in the freezer. Simply check the individual recipes for full storing instructions and details on how to make ahead. 

More sauce recipes

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Collage of sauces for tofu.

15+ Sauces for Tofu

In search of some tasty sauces for tofu? I’ve got you covered with this handy guide. From creamy sauces, to spicy sauces, tangy sauces and more! Try these Spicy Peanut Tofu Bowls served on a bed of coconut-lime rice, with quick pickled red peppers.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 people

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 425 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Cut tofu in half lengthwise. Sandwich slices between paper towels and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
  • Cube tofu and toss with cornstarch, until coated. Arrange on a baking sheet and cook 20-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Coconut Rice:

  • In a small pot, combine rice with 1 cup water, coconut milk and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil then reduce heat. Simmer, covered for 15 minutes, until rice is tender. Remove from the heat and let sit, covered, until ready to serve.

Peppers:

  • While tofu and rice are cooking, in a small bowl, stir ¼ cup lime juice with 1/2 teaspoon salt until salt dissolves. Add the sliced peppers, and a pinch of pepper. Toss to combine and set aside.

Peanut Sauce:

  • Add ¼ cup lime juice, peanut butter, oil, ginger, maple syrup, habanero and ¾ cup water to a food processor or blender. Process until smooth and season to taste with salt.
  • Remove 1 cup peanut sauce to a small bowl and add rice wine vinegar and soy to make the dressing; set aside.

Finishing:

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add tofu and remaining peanut sauce. Cook 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until tofu is coated in the sauce.
  • Add the lime zest and HALF of the sliced scallions to the rice, then fluff with a fork.
  • Divide the rice between bowls. Top with tofu, arugula and peppers. Drizzle the peanut dressing over top and garnish with remaining sliced scallions and black sesame seeds, if desired.

Notes

Peanut sauce can be made 2-3 days in advance and stored refrigerated until ready to use.
Did you make this recipe?Mention @platingsandpairings or tag #platingsandpairings!

Equipment

Knife
Small Bowl
Food processor
Microplane

Nutrition

Calories: 397kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Sodium: 309mg | Potassium: 396mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 944IU | Vitamin C: 37mg | Calcium: 51mg | Iron: 2mg

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