Indian Tofu Curry

This creamy, spicy, and hot Indian tofu curry has all the enticing flavors of traditional Indian cuisine—and it's vegan, too! 

A fabulous 30-minute dinner recipe designed to delight your taste buds tonight(almond milk curry has a special mention here). And if there are any leftovers, you've got a flavorful meal ready for tomorrow.

Why You'll Love This Tofu Curry Recipe?

• A Delicious Fusion. Combining the traditional Indian curry base with the Asian staple tofu results in a delicious surprise.
• Flavorful. This curry strikes the perfect balance between heat, sweetness, and creaminess.
• Easy to Make. Have you ever thought of recreating curry at your favorite restaurant at home? This recipe is for you! With simple and clear step-by-step instructions, the curry's cooking process feels like a breeze. This recipe is a perfect gateway to the world of curry(similar to this mung bean curry, and lima bean curry).
• Perfect for Any Meal. Whether you're looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch to keep you going, this curry is for you. If you have leftovers, they taste great the next day!

The Ingredients

• Tofu. This is the key ingredient with a silky texture that beautifully complements the creamy coconut milk-based sauce. Firm tofu adds a satisfying crunch. If you prefer a softer texture, use a more delicate tofu variety.
• Onion. Provides a body to the sauce. Red onion or yellow onion both work great. Red onion gives a punch, and yellow onion adds a mild sweetness to the sauce.
• Tomato. Gives a punch, acidity, and vibrant red color to the curry. I have used tomato paste as it yields a silky texture. However, pureed fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes are good to use too.
• Garlic and Ginger. Fresh ginger and garlic add a spicy kick to the dish. If you have bottled ginger and garlic paste, feel free to use them. Or make your own and freeze it so it's always handy when needed.
• Spices. We need special spices to flavor the curry, like cumin, garam masala, turmeric, and red chili powder. Each spice has its own unique contribution, bringing warmth and richness to the curry. Garam masala acts as a flavor booster. Turmeric brings color, while coriander acts as a binding agent and gives volume to the sauce. Cumin is added for its deep, robust flavor.
• Coconut milk. This ingredient provides a creamy and silky texture to the curry, balancing the spiciness of other elements. You can substitute this tofu coconut curry with almond, soy, or fresh cream.

How to Make Indian Tofu Curry?

Firstly, drain the tofu, remove the excess water, and press it gently. This process helps the tofu absorb the spices and gives it a firmer texture.

Heat a large pan over medium heat chopped onions, and saute until the onion turns translucent. 

Now add the minced garlic and the grated ginger, and saute for 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant. 

Next, stir in the turmeric powder, ground cumin, and garam masala.

Turn the heat low and saute for 1 minute without burning the spice mix.

Now add tomato paste and water. Bring it to build and cook until all the ingredients are combined and mellow down. And the gravy gets thickened as well(This should take about 7 to 10 minutes). 

Then, stir the coconut milk, salt, and tofu. Turn the heat low and let it simmer for about five to ten minutes. 

Cook until the curry sauce coats the tofu well. 

Now, finish it by garnishing it with chopped cilantro.

Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

What To Serve With Tofu Curry?

• Rice. This Indian tofu curry is best served over a bed of rice. Basmati rice is a traditional choice, but Jasmine rice, long-grain rice, or wild rice would work wonderfully.
• Naan Bread. Serving this curry with traditional, fluffy Indian naan bread is comforting.
• Side Dishes. An onion or cucumber raita pairs well with this curry as a side dish. The tangy raita balances the rich flavors of the curry perfectly.
• Salads. If you're looking for a lighter option, a simple salad with a mild salad dressing would be perfect(like these fresco salad, cucumber mango salad.
• Pickles. Indian pickles or pickled vegetables may seem like a contrasting choice, but they work well with the curry.

Variations

• Tikka Masala Tofu Curry. For this variation, follow the same recipe but swap the tomato paste with tikka masala paste.
• Vegetable-Infused Tofu Curry. For added crunch and color, stir in veggies like cauliflower, broccoli, carrot, and coconut milk.
• Diced Onion/pepper. Along with tofu, add chopped onion or bell peppers to make the curry more flavorful and with textures.
• Garnished Tofu Curry. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro for a refreshing taste, or finish by squeezing a few drops of lemon juice for a tangy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions