Thai Buddha Bowl with Peanut Red Curry Sauce

Step 1

Cook the rice according to the package directions. Once it’s cooked and while it is still warm, stir through the coconut milk and salt.

Step 2

While the rice is cooking prepare the sauce. Heat a medium pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil, the shallots, garlic and ginger and fry, stirring, until soft and fragrant. Add the curry paste and an additional tablespoon of oil if necessary and fry for a couple of minutes until the curry paste darkens in colour and is very fragrant. Put the curry paste in a bowl and add the peanut butter, ½ cup of the water, soy sauce, lime juice and brown sugar and mix until smooth. Add as much of the remaining ¼ cup of water as you want to reach a pourable consistency that you like.

Step 3

Put the cubed tofu in a plastic or ziplock bag with the cornstarch and shake it to coat. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil in the pan and fry the tofu, flipping from time to time, until it is golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4

Divide the rice between four bowls and top with the vegetables, cilantro and peanuts. Serve with the sauce on the side.