Tender cabbage and soft silken tofu simmered in a fragrant, creamy coconut milk broth offer a balanced way to enjoy a traditional Southeast Asian meal. The addition of dried shrimp provides a subtle, savory depth that grounds the sweetness of the coconut, while sliced red chillies and aromatics like garlic and onion cut through the richness to keep each bite bright and light.
This Tofu & Cabbage in Coconut Milk, known locally as Kobis Masak Lemak Putih, is a staple home-style dish that relies on gentle cooking to maintain the integrity of the delicate tofu cubes. It is meant to be enjoyed warm, ideally spooned over a bowl of steamed white rice. For those who prefer a more substantial meal, tossing in a handful of mung bean noodles allows the broth to soak in, creating a satisfying, slurpable consistency.
To round out the experience, a side of house-made sambal belacan adds a sharp, acidic, and spicy kick that contrasts perfectly with the mellow coconut base. It is the kind of straightforward, reliable recipe that works just as well for a quick weeknight dinner as it does for a casual weekend lunch shared with family.
Read Full StoryThis creamy coconut-based dish highlights the versatility of simple vegetables when simmered in a rich, spiced broth. If you enjoy this method of cooking, exploring a classic traditional vegetable stew offers a deeper dive into these authentic flavors. For those who find comfort in the pairing of aromatic coconut milk and sweet, chewy textures, this fragrant steamed dessert layer cake provides a delightful way to round out a meal with similar botanical notes.
Key Ingredients
- Cabbage: Provides the primary vegetable base and a tender crunch to the dish.
- Silken Tofu: Adds a delicate, creamy protein element that absorbs the coconut broth.
- Coconut Cream: Creates the signature rich, velvety consistency of the coconut milk sauce.
- Dried Shrimp: Delivers a savory, umami-rich foundation essential to the traditional flavor profile.
- Red Chilli: Offers a mild heat and bright color contrast to the creamy white broth.
- Shrimp Paste: Used in the accompanying sambal to provide a pungent, salty depth.
- Tamarind Sauce: Provides a necessary tangy brightness to balance the spicy and savory sambal.
More Coconut-Infused Plant-Based Dishes
- Tempeh In Coconut Milk: If you appreciate the creaminess of this cabbage dish, you will enjoy how tempeh soaks up the savory coconut base for a protein-rich alternative.
- 15 Minute Airfried Hot Honey Tofu: For a change of pace, these crispy cubes offer a quick, spiced contrast to the softer, simmered textures of the coconut stew.
- Airfried Lentil Tofu Bites: These bite-sized pieces are perfect if you are looking for a convenient, high-protein snack that mirrors the clean profile of tofu while adding an earthy lentil twist.
Tofu & Cabbage In Coconut Milk (Kobis Masak Lemak Putih)
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Steps
Chilli &Amp; Shrimp Paste Sauce (Sambal Belacan)
Steps
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