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Vegan Palak Paneer with Tofu (Palak Tofu) – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Vegan Palak Paneer with Tofu (Palak Tofu)

This exquisitely seasoned vegan version of the classic Indian dish, palak paneer, swaps cheese for tender tofu in a vibrant, creamy spinach sauce, flavored with an aromatic garam masala spice blend.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 2 serving
Calories: 90

Ingredients
  

  • 10 cups (2400 ml) (2.5 L) spinach leaves and stems, about 10 ounces / 284 g (10 oz)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 mL / 0.5 fl oz) coconut or olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon (5 mL / 0.2 fl oz) garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2 mL / 0.1 fl oz) ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1 mL / 0 fl oz) garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1 mL / 0 fl oz) salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2 mL / 0.1 fl oz) lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup (60 mL) firm tofu, in 1/4-inch / 5 mm cubes
  • For an extra creamy texture, add 2 tablespoons (30 ml / 1 fl oz) of full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream to the blender with the spinach.
  • Press your tofu for at least 15 minutes before cubing. This removes excess water and allows it to absorb more flavor.
  • For a richer flavor, pan-fry the tofu cubes in a little oil until golden brown on all sides before adding them to the finished spinach puree.
  • Bloom the spices by adding them to the hot oil for 30 seconds before adding the onion. This intensifies their aroma and taste.

Method
 

  1. Place the spinach in a steamer over medium-high heat and steam for about 3 minutes, or until the leaves are wilted and cooked.
  2. While the spinach steams, heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until translucent.
  4. Stir in the garam masala, coriander, garlic powder, and salt.
  5. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently to toast the spices and prevent sticking.
  6. Transfer the steamed spinach, the cooked onion and spice mixture, and the lemon juice to a blender or food processor.
  7. Blend until smooth.
  8. Return the pureed spinach mixture to the skillet.
  9. Add the cubed tofu and stir to combine.
  10. Warm over medium-low heat until the tofu is heated through.
  11. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 90kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 5gFat: 6g

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