Slovakian international Szilard Nemeth was the matchwinning hero five minutes after his introduction as a second-half substitute.
Nemeth took his chance well as Middlesbrough took maximum points in their first home game following their Carling Cup triumph over Bolton Wanderers.
Middlesbrough failed to produce the form and attacking flair of that historic occasion at Cardiff and there was relief over the final whistle.
Manager Steve McClaren had called upon his Middlesbrough players to forget the cup triumph and concentrate on climbing the Premiership table.
Yet Spurs were the livelier first-half side. They showed a positive approach as Juninho and company failed to click in the home side.
Fortunately for Middlesbrough, Ugo Ehiogu produce a solid display at the heart of the defence as Spurs looked the more threatening side before the break.
It was not an exciting half however and Middlesbrough fans hoped for an improvement in the second 45 minutes when McClaren made changes.
Middlesbrough showed more enterprise directly after the break and Kasey Keller was brought into the action by Juninho while at the other end Mark Schwarzer produced a fine save to deny Michael Brown.
In the 60th minute Middlesbrough were awarded a hotly disputed penalty when referee Mark Halsey adjudged Brown had fouled Ehiogu inside the box.
Spurs appeared to have just claims over their protests, but of course the referee refused to chance his decision.
It was a chance for record buy Massimo Maccarone to win favour with the home crowd, but he failed to take it.
Maccarone, who has not been the darling of the Riverside Stadium faithful following his £8million move from Italy, lacked power with his shot and Keller got down to save.
Perhaps it was justice for the penalty had appeared harsh.
Three minutes later Middlesbrough had another chance to take the lead but Joseph-Desire Job shot wide from close range.
Middlesbrough were livelier in this half, though Spurs threatened when Robbie Keane hit the ball across the face of the goal. Fortunately for Middlesbrough there was no-one there to take advantage.
Nemeth arrived on the scene for his all-important goal in the 73rd minute.
He held off Anthony Gardner, evaded the challenge of the onrushing Keller and shot into the net.
It was the sixth goal of the season for a player who feels he should see more regular first-team action.
Perhaps after his second goal in successive games he may get his chance.