Tahu Goreng
Hawker • Singapore
About Tahu Goreng
Fried tofu with beansprouts, cucumber, and sweet peanut sauce
How to Make Tahu Goreng (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Tahu Goreng is a beloved snack in Singapore’s bustling hawker centres and traditional kopitiams, where influences from Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisines come together. This dish features golden, crispy tofu cubes smothered in a rich, nutty peanut sauce, and topped with a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables. Originating from the Malay word 'tahu' (tofu) and 'goreng' (fried), Tahu Goreng is a testament to Singapore's multicultural culinary landscape and its flair for fusion street food. The dish is immensely popular for its contrast of textures—crispy tofu, crunchy cucumbers, and bean sprouts—paired with a slightly sweet, tangy, and spicy sauce. Tahu Goreng is naturally vegetarian and can easily be adapted to vegan diets, making it a favorite for health-conscious diners. Whether enjoyed as a light meal or a snack, it is a familiar and comforting sight at local food stalls, especially during lunch hours when the kopitiams buzz with activity. Perfectly capturing the essence of Singaporean hawker culture, this healthy version of Tahu Goreng brings together tradition and wholesome eating, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for an authentic taste of Singapore with a nutritious twist.
Ingredients(for 1 plate (about 250g) per person)
- 300g Firm tofu (tau kwa) (pressed and cut into cubes)
- 1 cup Bean sprouts (taugeh) (washed and drained)
- 1/2 medium Cucumber (julienned)
- 1 small Carrot (julienned) - optional
- 3 tbsp Peanut butter (unsweetened) (or freshly ground peanuts)
- 1 tbsp Tamarind paste (asam) (diluted with 2 tbsp water)
- 1 tbsp Light soy sauce (use reduced sodium for health)
- 1 tbsp Palm sugar (gula melaka) (or brown sugar)
- 1 small Red chili (deseeded and finely chopped) - optional
- 1 clove Garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp Cooking oil (canola or sunflower) (for pan-frying)
- 1 tbsp Fried shallots (for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Press tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into 2cm cubes.
5 minutes
Use a clean kitchen towel to press for crispier tofu.
- 2
Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer and pan-fry until all sides are golden brown, about 8 minutes.
8 minutes
Turn tofu gently to avoid breaking.
- 3
In a small saucepan, combine peanut butter, tamarind paste, soy sauce, palm sugar, chili, and garlic. Add 2-3 tbsp water and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
5 minutes
Adjust water for desired sauce consistency.
- 4
Blanch bean sprouts briefly in boiling water (about 30 seconds), then drain and set aside.
2 minutes
Do not overcook for crisp texture.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Tahu Goreng recipe is pan-fried instead of deep-fried, significantly reducing calories and unhealthy fats. The use of abundant fresh vegetables and a nutrient-dense, homemade peanut sauce ensures you get plenty of vitamins, minerals, and fiber without processed additives. This snack is filling yet light, making it ideal for weight management, and it can easily fit into plant-based or diabetic-friendly meal plans by making simple ingredient swaps.
Tahu Goreng is rich in plant-based protein from tofu, offering essential amino acids. The addition of fresh vegetables like bean sprouts, cucumber, and carrot boosts the fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), and minerals (iron, magnesium) content, supporting digestive health and immunity. The peanut sauce provides heart-healthy fats, while using minimal oil and reduced-sodium soy sauce keeps the dish light and suitable for calorie-conscious eaters. No dairy or animal products are required, making it naturally cholesterol-free and adaptable for vegan diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Press tofu well before frying for a crispier texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Use fresh, crunchy bean sprouts and cucumber for the best flavor.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust the sweetness and spiciness of the peanut sauce to suit your taste.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover tofu and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the tofu in an oven or air fryer for crispiness before serving. Do not freeze as the texture of tofu and vegetables may change.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 260.0 kcal |
| Protein | 14.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18.0 g |
| Total Fat | 15.0 g |
| Fiber | 3.0 g |
