Kashmiri Lal Tofu Paneer
For the Crispy Tofu
For the Sauce
For Garnish (Optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow each step to make the recipe successfully.
Prepare and Slice Tofu
Press the block of extra-firm tofu to remove excess water. Slice the pressed tofu into thick, flat slices. Alternatively, tear the tofu into organic shapes for better flavor absorption.
Coat Tofu Slices
In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Sprinkle this mixture over the tofu slices and toss gently to ensure they are evenly coated.
Crisp Tofu
Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil (regular or mustard oil, or a mix) in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated tofu slices to the hot skillet and cook undisturbed for until golden brown on the bottom side. Flip the slices and continue to cook until they are golden brown on the other side as well. Remove the crisped tofu from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics for Sauce
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of oil. Add 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds and 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns. for a few seconds until fragrant. Add 1 medium finely chopped red onion and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook over medium-high heat until the onion is translucent, adding splashes of water as needed to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. Once the onion is golden brown, add 1 tablespoon garlic and continue to cook until the onion is evenly golden.
Blend Sauce Base
Transfer the cooked onion and garlic mixture to a blender. Add 2 tablespoons of Kashmiri chili powder (or start with 1.5 tablespoons if you prefer less heat) and 1 cup of water. Blend until the onion, black pepper, and fennel seeds are completely broken down and the mixture is smooth.
Prepare Whole Spices for Sauce
Heat the skillet again over medium heat. Add 1 black cardamom pod (opened slightly), 1 small cinnamon stick, and 2-3 cloves. If using, add 1/4 teaspoon hing (asafoetida) at this stage. until fragrant.
Combine and Simmer Sauce
Add 1 cup of tomato puree to the skillet. Then pour in the blended onion mixture. Rinse out the blender with 1/2 cup of water and add it to the skillet. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander, 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/8 teaspoon turmeric, and 1/4 teaspoon garam masala. Mix everything really well. the heat to low, add the crisped tofu, cover the skillet, and for . Allow the sauce to cook low and slow until all the flavors and spices meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
Serve and Garnish
Once the sauce has and thickened, remove from heat. Garnish with a drizzle of non-dairy yogurt and chopped fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve hot over rice, naan, roti, sourdough, or any cooked grain of your choice.
Before You Cook
Helpful details before you startIngredient SubstitutionsMissing something? View suitable alternatives.View 7 swaps
No Cornstarch?
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (per 1 tbsp cornstarch)
- Arrowroot powder (1:1)
- Tapioca starch (1:1)
No Onion?
- 1 tbsp onion powder (per medium onion)
- 3 tbsp dried minced onion
- Shallots or leeks (1:1)
No Garlic (fresh)?
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (per clove)
- 1/2 tsp garlic granules (per clove)
No Garam masala?
- 1 tsp cumin + 1/2 tsp coriander + 1/4 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp cardamom
No Asafoetida (hing)?
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder + 1/4 tsp onion powder
No Yogurt?
- Sour cream (1:1)
- Buttermilk (1:1, slightly thinner result)
No Cilantro?
- Flat-leaf parsley (1:1, milder)
- Fresh mint (in chutneys, salads)
Variations
Simple ways to adapt this recipe.
- For a more rustic textureIngredient swap
For a more rustic texture and better flavor absorption, tear the tofu into organic shapes instead of slicing.
- If you don't want to blend the sauceIngredient swap
Chop the onion very finely and use ground fennel and ground black pepper instead of whole spices.
- Substitute tofu with chickpeasIngredient swap
Beans, roasted vegetables, or chickpea flour tofu for alternative protein options.
Helpful Tips
Small details that can improve the final result.
Your Notes
Save your personal tweaks, substitutions and cooking adjustments.
Saved only on this device.Example: Used less salt, cooked 5 minutes longer, added extra coriander.
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