Vegan paneer masala

Vegan Paneer Masala features tofu cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce, reminiscent of traditional paneer dishes. This plant-based recipe is rich in flavor and ideal for a comforting meal.

14 Dec 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

16 oz tofu
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp cashew
3 cups canned tomatoes
1 jalapeno pepper
2 tbsp ginger root
3 garlic cloves
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp coriander leaves
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp chili powder
2 cups coconut milk
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp coriander leaves
1 cup white rice
2 cups water
2 tbsp cornstarch

Indulge in a rich and flavorful Vegan Paneer Masala, an aromatic and delightful plant-based dish that plays on the classic flavors of traditional paneer masala, substituting tofu for paneer. This dish offers a balanced blend of spices and creamy texture that will surely become a favorite in your vegan recipe collection.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Press the tofu to remove excess water and cut into cubes.
- Finely chop the ginger root and garlic cloves.
- Dice the jalapeño pepper.

2. Cooking the Tofu:
- Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.

3. Preparing the Masala Sauce:
- In the same pan, add the vegan butter and let it melt.
- Over medium heat, add chopped cashew nuts and toast them until they turn golden brown.
- Add the ginger, garlic, and jalapeño pepper to the pan. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Adding Spices and Tomatoes:
- Add the bay leaf, ground cumin, dried coriander leaves, cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and chili powder. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken.

5. Blending the Sauce:
- Remove the bay leaf and carefully blend the sauce until it reaches a smooth consistency. Use either an immersion blender directly in the pan or transfer it to a blender.

6. Making it Creamy:
- Return the blended sauce to the pan and pour in the coconut milk.
- Stir well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

7. Adding Tofu:
- Add the browned tofu cubes to the sauce.
- Mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry, then stir it into the pan to thicken the sauce.
- Season with salt and simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the tofu to absorb the flavors.

8. Cooking the Rice:
- In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add 1 cup of white rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until the rice is done and water is absorbed.

9. Final Touch:
- Garnish the Vegan Paneer Masala with fresh coriander leaves.

10. Serving:
- Serve the vegan paneer masala hot, with a side of fluffy white rice.

This Vegan Paneer Masala brings together the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine in a plant-based format, ensuring a satisfying and delicious meal. Perfect for any day of the week, this dish is both easy to prepare and a delight to serve.', 'encouragement': 'Experiment with your own variations and feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Gather your ingredients, enjoy the process, and savor every bite of this wholesome vegan delight!

Vegan paneer masala FAQ:

How long should I cook the tofu for optimal texture?

Cook the tofu cubes for about 10 minutes in olive oil, until they are golden brown on all sides. This helps achieve a crispy texture.

What kind of tofu should I use for this recipe?

Use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best texture in Vegan Paneer Masala. Soft or silken tofu may not hold its shape during cooking.

How can I thicken the sauce without cornstarch?

If you're looking for a cornstarch substitute, you can use arrowroot powder or a flour-based roux. Adjust the amount as needed, starting with about 1 tablespoon.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Vegan Paneer Masala?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Can I make Vegan Paneer Masala spicier?

Yes, to increase the heat, you can add more diced jalapeño, or include additional red chili powder to the spice blend, adjusting according to your spice preference.

Tips:

- Press the tofu for 15-20 minutes before cooking to remove excess moisture and achieve a firmer texture.

- Toast the cashews slightly before blending for an enhanced nutty flavor.

- Adjust the number of jalapeno peppers to control the level of heat in your dish.

- Simmer the sauce on low heat to allow the flavors to develop fully.

- Serve the Vegan Paneer Masala with warm, fluffy white rice or naan bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 450kcal
Protein 11g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 5g
Sugar 7g
Fat 33g

Vegan paneer masala