*To all my readers: at the time of the publication of this post, the world is in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic. These are difficult and trying times. But we will cross it together. Sending my prayers and well-wishes for the safety of people in all communities across the world. Much love- Swetha *
This recipe is an easy vegan Palak Tofu (vegan version of palak paneer) ready in under 10 minutes. Using frozen spinach, ginger, garlic, dried onions, and canned tomatoes; this dish can be made in a cinch, without sacrificing the taste. Let’s see the recipe first, shall we?
Recipe
Vegan Palak Tofu ready in 10 minutes
Course: RecipesCuisine: Indian4
servings1
minute9
minutes300
kcalIngredients
1 packet firm tofu
2 Tbsp Oil
- To be grinded together
1/2 packet frozen spinach (8oz)
1 Frozen Ginger Cube
1 Frozen Garlic Cube
1 cup water
- Spices
1 Frozen Ginger Cube
1 Frozen Garlic Cube
2 Tbsp Dried Onion Flakes
1 tsp Coriander Powder
1 tsp Kashmiri Chili Powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 tbsp crushed Kasuri Methi
1 tbsp tomato paste (I used canned, tube version also available)
a pinch of shredded nutmeg
Salt to taste
- Garam Masala Spices
2 Cloves
1 Dried Bay leaf
Directions
- Pour frozen spinach, 1 garlic cube, 1 ginger cube with 1 cup water in a high powered blender and make a puree.
- Now assemble all ingredients. Keep them close, we will cook the ingredients rather quickly.
- Heat oil in a pan to medium heat. Add 1 frozen ginger, frozen garlic, whole spices (clove, bay leaf) and saute for about 10-15 seconds.
- Saute dried onion, coriander powder, chilli powder, turmeric powder, hand-crushed Kasuri methi. (Caution - these will burn quickly unless you have the heat on medium-low and stir continuously).
- Now add 1 tbsp tomato paste. Now that moisture is in, you can increase the heat a little. Stir until the oil seeps out of the tomato sauce.
- Add the frozen mix (spinach, garlic, ginger, water) to the pan and let it come to a boil. Now increase heat to high. Add grated nutmeg.
- Add drained and cubed tofu pieces (paneer if you are non vegan) and let it boil for another minute.
- Serve.
Notes
- Just FYI - My frozen ginger, garlic cubes are from Trader Joe’s. My dried onion flakes are from Costco. I used Hunts tomato paste. Use whichever brand is available locally, Just make sure they have no preservatives added.
Flavor Buildup
What makes palak paneer so tasty? The combination of gentle greens with hearty tofu (paneer) makes this a healthy, yet tasty dish.
What ingredients are used and why?
- Ginger, garlic, onions because it is a flavor base for most stews, especially where greens are used.
- Coriander powder is added mostly whenever tomatoes are added to ground the acidity; Chili powder for some heat.
- Nutmeg and Kasuri methi were inspired by Chef Ranveer who correctly identified that these ingredients pair well with spinach.
- Bay leaf, whole clove - add fragrance without overpowering the sauce (notice the absence of garam masala in the recipe - which could be added but has the capacity to overwhelm the dish)
The tofu pieces coated with the delicate, yet flavor-filled greens taste great. So quick and easy, yet delicious!!
Conclusion
Did you realize that I did not blanch the spinach? Why? - Frozen spinach is actually frozen after being blanched. In manufacturing, it is done to protect the color and preserve flavor. Aha!! Why not use that to our benefit? 🙂
Similarly, lots of time saved by avoiding peeling garlic, ginger, onion, crushing, chopping them by using the frozen or dried version of the ingredients. Easy shortcuts available right in front of our eyes.
Say it with me – Tasty Indian dishes like Palak Tofu do not have to be complicated!! Using pre-processed (yet good quality and pure) ingredients, we have shortened the time for making this dish to a mere 10 minutes.
I hope this ‘Vegan Palak Tofu recipe ready within 10 minutes’ helps you deliver tasty Palak Tofu at your home on a regular weekday without too much stress or hassle. Let me know your thoughts and comments below. I look forward to reading them.
Stay safe, everyone!!
Post your comments here....I look forward to reading them!!