Here are 20 vegan Indian dinner dishes using tofu! They are all incredibly hearty, filling, and comforting to have. From tikka masala and vegan butter chicken to salads, there is definitely something for everyone!
Whether if you are new to tofu or a full-time vegan, this collection of 20 Indian-inspired tofu dinner recipes will definitely leave you hungry for more! From stews like tikka masala and curries to lighter sides like salads and stir-fries, you will for sure find something suitable.
🤔Types of tofu
This might be one of the most confusing parts for newbies to tofu - exactly how many types of tofu are there and how to use them? Let me break them down for you -
- Extra firm - As the name suggest, extra-firm tofu is the most compact and the toughest one. It is super dense and chewy, and can be fried, baked and grilled without falling apart.
- Firm - A little less dense and sturdy when compared to extra-firm. It can usually be used interchangeably with extra-firm, and can also be used for frying, baking and grilling.
- Medium - Has a moderate water content, and is quite fragile and do not hold its shape well. They work great in dishes that require minimal manipulation like boiling and braising. It is not recommended to use them in vigorous cooking methods like stir-frying or grilling.
- Soft - Not to be confused with silken tofu, they are coarser and more porous. Despite that, the uses of soft tofu is really similar to silken, and you can use them interchangeably in most recipes.
- Silken - Super delicate and will fall apart really easily. They are usually sliced up and added into Asian soups and stews like miso soup. Thanks to their creamy custard-like texture, they make a great base for dips, sauces and vegan desserts like mousses and cheesecakes.
🔪Pressing tofu
It is really important that you drain and press your tofu properly before using, unless the recipe suggest otherwise. Also, do not even try to press medium, soft or silken tofu as they ae super fragile and will turn into mush under pressure!
There are 2 main ways that you can press your tofu - either by using a tofu press or by stacking something heavy on it.
- Tofu press - I do recommend reading the instruction manual before using as different brands have slightly different mechanisms. But generally you will need to fix your tofu in between plates, then tighten the screws so that the pressure excreted will force excess water out of tofu.
- Without a press - Drain your tofu and wrap it with a few layers of dishtowel or paper towels. Place it on a rimmed plate or baking sheet, then place something heavy on top of the wrapped tofu. Cast-iron pans, ceramic plates or a few cans of canned food will all work well! Leave it for 20 minutes or longer before draining and patting dry tofu.
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That should cover the bases of everything you need to know about these recipes. As promised, here are 20 mouthwatering Indian dinner recipes that feature tofu!
Rich and bold in flavors, this Indian red quinoa salad features fluffy quinoa, crunchy veggies and crispy tofu served with a flavorful and creamy dressing. Makes a great appetizer or side dish that pairs beautifully with other Indian mains.
This luscious and creamy curry is served with chunks of perfectly spiced tandoori tofu! It is naturally vegan, and is oil-free and healthy too.
This veganized version of the classic matar masala uses tofu in place of cottage cheese. Creamy, thick and rich, it is also quick to make and ready in no time.
All you need is 10 ingredients and 30 minutes to make this amazing tofu curry! This dish consist of crispy fried tofu paired with a bold, rich curry sauce.
This unique version of the classic curry is drier, yet is super bold in flavor thanks to the various herbs and spices used! This healthy meal is packed full of veggies and high protein tofu.
There is nothing more comforting than a hearty and creamy bowl of curry! It is incredibly high in protein and fiber, and will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
Make this delectable paneer in just 30 minutes! This dish stars cheesy tofu cooked in a mildly spiced spinach base, and will definitely leave you wanting for more.
Using roasted veggies and tofu in place of chicken, this spicy and creamy vegan tikka masala is one of the must-try Indian dishes! This indulgent curry will definitely please even non-vegans.
Malai kofta, or Indian meatballs are cooked in a thick and savory cashew based sauce, making them super comforting and hearty to have. Only simple wholesome ingredients are used making this dish the lighten up version of traditional ones.
This incredible Indian mattar tofu paneer is ready in just under 45 minutes! Rich, creamy and mildly spicy, this dish is definitely a crowd pleaser.
This flavorsome vegetable biryani features fluffy basmati rice, crunchy cashews and perfectly roasted veggies topped with some spicy baked tofu! Wholesome and nourishing, this aesthetically pleasing dish is great for entertaining and feeding a crowd!
Tangy, spicy and savory, these lightly blackened Indian inspired Tandoori tofu taste even better than the non-vegan version! It is also pretty easy to make and only a handful of ingredients required.
These perfectly grilled vegan tofu tikka kebab are naturally vegan! Smoky and spicy, you can serve them over some pulao or biryani for a complete meal.
This mildly spicy Indian tofu coconut curry is a great quick meal to make that is family friendly! Ready in 30 minutes and only simple everyday ingredients needed.
Crispy and packed full of flavors, these baked curried tofu cubes are vegan and oil-free too! Great as a side dish, appetizer or even as a high protein snack.
This simple curry tofu casserole is hearty and filling, yet healthy at the same time! This easy one pot meal makes a great quick weeknight dinner.
Super hearty and filling lentil and tofu curry that is also quick and easy to fix! Can be made both in the Instant pot or on stove.
Skip the takeout and make yourself some creamy and flavorful korma at home instead! Best serve alongside some freshly steamed rice and naan.
This delectable peas, potato and tofu curry is super addictive, yet good for you too! This recipe is simple to throw together and only requires easily accessible ingredients.
This easy and quick to make Indian style tofu stir-fry is fragrant and delicious! A quick dinner to make on busy workdays.
🍽More helpful roundups
I hope you find this post helpful and informative! If you do try any one of these recipes or have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below. I love hearing from you.🙂
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Vidya Narayan says
Such a wonderful collection. Thank you so much for including mine. Cheers.
meesha says
Its my pleasure ! I really love your blog 😀