If you're a fan of vegan and gluten-free dishes that are bursting with flavors, then you need to try smoked tofu curry. This dish is the perfect combination of creamy, rich curry sauce and smoky tofu that will leave you craving for more. Whether you serve it over steamed fluffy Basmati rice, coconut rice, quinoa, or with naan or chapati, this tofu curry is sure to become a family favorite. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about choosing, preparing, and cooking tofu for this spicy and aromatic curry sauce.
About Tofu Curry
Like most Indian curry recipes, tofu curry uses common pantry ingredients such as onions, tomatoes, ginger garlic, and a variety of whole and ground spices and herbs. To make the curry creamy, you can add ingredients like cashews, almonds, or coconut according to your preference.
In addition to tofu, you can also add vegetables like peas, cauliflower, potatoes, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers to enhance the nutritional value and make it a complete meal.
Choosing Tofu
For this recipe, it is recommended to use extra firm tofu or Tau kwa. If you want your tofu to have a meat-like texture, you can freeze it before using. Freezing tofu helps to remove excess moisture and allows it to absorb more flavors when marinating and cooking in the curry.
How to Make Smoked Tofu Curry
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by rinsing and patting dry the extra firm tofu. Cut it into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, mix together red chili powder, garam masala, salt, and kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves). Coat each piece of tofu with the spice mixture and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Other Ingredients
For the curry, you will need ginger garlic paste (or grated ginger and garlic), green chili pepper (optional), tomatoes (fresh puree or canned tomato puree), and onions. You can also add optional whole spices like bay leaf, cinnamon, and cardamom. Additionally, you can use coconut milk or homemade nut cream/milk made from cashews or almonds.
Step 3: Make the Curry
In a pan, heat oil and add the optional whole spices. Once they start sizzling, add the onions and sauté until golden. Add ginger garlic paste and green chili and sauté for a minute. Stir in the ground spices and salt, taking care not to burn them. Add the tomato puree and cook until the raw flavor is gone. Next, add the nut cream/milk or coconut milk along with water. Let the curry cook until traces of fat are visible.
While the curry is cooking, heat another pan with oil and fry the tofu cubes until they are golden brown. Once the curry thickens, add sugar or maple syrup to balance the flavors. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Finally, add the fried tofu to the curry and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Smoked tofu curry is a delicious and nutritious vegan and gluten-free dish that is perfect for any meal. By following the steps outlined above, you can create a flavorful curry sauce that complements the smoky tofu perfectly. Serve it with rice or flatbreads for a complete and satisfying meal. So, why not give this smoked tofu curry recipe a try and enjoy the rich flavors of Indian cuisine?
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