Tofu Curry: A Simple, Flavorful, and Healthy Recipe
This recipe delivers a delicious and healthy tofu curry, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's easy to customize to your spice preference and dietary needs, making it a versatile dish for everyone. This guide will walk you through creating a tofu curry that's both flavorful and satisfying, guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You'll Need
Before you begin, gather these essential ingredients for your amazing tofu curry:
- 1 block (14 ounces) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed to remove excess water. Pressing the tofu is crucial for achieving a firmer texture that holds up well in the curry.
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped (optional, but adds sweetness and color)
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional, but adds sweetness and color)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (13.5 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons curry powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or coconut oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions for Tofu Curry
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious and aromatic tofu curry:
Step 1: Preparing the Tofu
Press the tofu to remove excess water. You can do this by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures that your tofu won't be soggy in the curry.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Adding the Spices
Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This step builds the foundational flavor of your curry.
Step 4: Incorporating Vegetables and Tofu
Add the chopped bell peppers (if using) and cook for 3-5 minutes until slightly softened. Add the pressed tofu, breaking it into bite-sized pieces. Stir to coat the tofu with the spice mixture.
Step 5: Simmering the Curry
Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the tofu is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Serving and Enjoying
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over cooked rice. Enjoy your homemade delicious and healthy tofu curry!
Tips and Variations for Your Tofu Curry
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of curry powder and cayenne pepper to your liking.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, cauliflower, or peas.
- Protein: Add chickpeas or lentils for extra protein.
- Coconut Milk: Use light coconut milk for a lower-calorie option.
- Garnish: Experiment with different garnishes such as toasted coconut flakes, lime wedges, or chopped peanuts.
This tofu curry recipe is a fantastic starting point for your culinary adventures. Don't hesitate to experiment and make it your own! Enjoy!
