Savory Golden Tofu and Spinach Skillet

If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly balances health, flavor, and convenience, look no further. This Savory Golden Tofu and Spinach Skillet is a culinary lifesaver, ready in just about 10 minutes from start to finish. It’s the kind of meal that feels both nourishing and deeply comforting, making it a favorite for busy weeknights and relaxed weekends alike. The magic lies in its simplicity. We use a straightforward pan-frying and braising technique that transforms humble ingredients into something truly special. The tofu develops a beautiful golden-brown crust while remaining wonderfully soft inside, and the spinach wilts into tender, savory perfection. With a delicate, garlicky aroma and a savory flavor profile, this dish is incredibly easy to master, making it a perfect entry point for anyone curious about home-style cooking that packs a nutritional punch.

To create this delightful dish, you’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients. The key is to use firm or extra-firm tofu, which holds its shape beautifully when pan-fried. Silken or soft tofu is too delicate and will fall apart here. If you have a few extra minutes, pressing your tofu before cooking will help it get even crispier, but it’s not a mandatory step for this quick recipe. For the greens, fresh spinach is best, but baby spinach also works wonderfully and requires even less prep. Don’t be shy with the amount; it looks like a lot at first, but it cooks down significantly.

Here’s your shopping list:

• Firm or Extra-Firm Tofu: 7 oz (about 200g), patted dry and cut into slices or cubes
• Fresh Spinach: 9 oz (about 250g), washed thoroughly
• Garlic: 1 large clove, thinly sliced
• Salt: ½ teaspoon (or 2g), adjust to your taste
• White Sugar: ¼ teaspoon (or 1g)
• White Pepper: ¼ teaspoon (or 1g)
• Cooking Oil: 1-2 tablespoons (like avocado, canola, or vegetable oil)
• Hot Water or Vegetable Broth: about ½ cup

A couple of notes for you: White pepper provides a gentle, earthy heat that is distinct from black pepper. If you don’t have it, black pepper will work in a pinch, but I highly recommend seeking out the white variety for its unique flavor. The tiny pinch of sugar isn’t to make the dish sweet, but rather to balance the saltiness and enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients—it’s a secret weapon in many savory recipes!

Ready to get cooking? This process is so quick and easy, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time. Just follow these simple steps.

1. First, get all your ingredients prepped and ready to go: your sliced tofu, washed spinach, and sliced garlic. Having everything within arm’s reach makes the fast cooking process smooth and stress-free.

2. Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add the spinach and blanch it for just 30 seconds. This quick dip brightens its color and removes any slight bitterness. Immediately remove the spinach with a slotted spoon and set it aside.

3. Place a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add the cooking oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully arrange the tofu pieces in a single layer. Pan-fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are beautifully golden-brown. Once the tofu is browned, toss in the sliced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

4. Add the blanched spinach to the pan with the tofu. Pour in the hot water (or vegetable broth), then sprinkle in the salt and white pepper. Gently stir everything together.

5. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has mostly reduced and is just clinging to the tofu and spinach. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just before you’re done, stir in the sugar. Give it one last gentle toss, then turn off the heat.

And just like that, you’re done! Transfer your beautifully cooked spinach and tofu to a serving dish. This dish is a testament to the idea that simple, wholesome food can be incredibly satisfying. The tofu is savory and toothsome, the spinach is tender and flavorful, and the light, garlicky sauce ties everything together. It’s packed with plant-based protein, calcium, and vitamins, making it a meal you can feel great about serving your family. It works perfectly as a light main course served with a side of steamed rice, or as a fantastic side dish to complement a larger meal. I truly hope you enjoy making this effortless and delicious dish. It has become a beloved staple in my own kitchen, and I would love to hear how you like it. Feel free to leave a comment below and share your experience