Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare the Palak Curry Base

   Combine the tomatoes, 1/2 onion, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 teaspoons cumin, 1 teaspoon ginger powder, 1/4 teaspoon turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida powder, 1 teaspoon garam masala, 1/4-1 teaspoon chili powder, a pinch of garlic, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Blend until a smooth, uniform paste forms.

2. 2.Add Spinach and Blend

   Add the 2-3 cups of spinach to the food processor with the blended mixture. Continue to blend until the spinach is fully incorporated, and the mixture is smooth and vibrant green.

3. 3.Dehydrate the Palak Curry

   Spread the palak curry mixture evenly onto a dehydrator tray lined with a non-stick sheet. Dehydrate for 3-5 hours, or until it reaches your desired consistency and texture.

4. 4.Prepare the Pine Nut Base for Paneer

   In a clean food processor, blend 1/2 cup pine nuts, 1/4 cup water, the juice of 1 lemon, 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, a pinch of garlic, and a pinch of salt until a smooth, creamy paste is formed. Transfer this mixture to a separate bowl.

5. 5.Dissolve Agar Powder

   In a small saucepan, dissolve 1 1/2 tablespoons of agar powder in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir continuously over heat until the agar powder is completely dissolved and the mixture is clear.

6. 6.Cool the Agar-Agar Solution

   Remove the agar-agar solution from heat and allow it to cool down to below 40°C (104°F). This is crucial to maintain the raw properties of the pine nut mixture when combined.

7. 7.Combine Paneer Components

   Once the agar-agar solution has cooled, gently fold the pine nut mixture (from Step 4) into the agar-agar solution until they are thoroughly combined.

8. 8.Set the Vegan Paneer

   Pour the combined paneer mixture onto a plate or into a shallow mold. Allow it to cool and stiffen completely, which typically takes about 30 minutes at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

9. 9.Cut and Season Paneer

   Once the paneer is firm, carefully cut it into small, uniform cubes. Lightly sprinkle the paneer cubes with olive oil and apple cider vinegar for added flavor and to prepare for dehydration.

10. 10.Dehydrate the Paneer

    Place the seasoned paneer cubes on a dehydrator tray. Dehydrate for 30 minutes to achieve a slightly firmer texture and enhance their flavor.

11. 11.Assemble and Serve

    Combine the dehydrated palak curry with the prepared vegan paneer cubes. Gently mix them together and serve immediately.