Dairy-Free Paneer Curry

Discover the rich, flavorful twist on a classic with this Dairy-Free Paneer Curry, a plant-based rendition that swaps traditional paneer for golden sautéed tofu. Perfectly spiced with turmeric, garam masala, and a hint of red chili, this vibrant curry features a creamy coconut milk base that’s entirely dairy-free. The combination of fresh aromatics—like garlic, ginger, and onion—paired with a tangy splash of lemon juice and a garnish of fresh cilantro creates a dish bursting with bold, authentic flavors. Ready in just 40 minutes and served best with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice, this vegan-friendly curry is the ultimate comfort food for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 grams Firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons Coconut oil
• 1 large Onion
• 3 cloves Garlic cloves
• 1 inch Fresh ginger
• 2 medium Tomatoes, chopped
• 400 ml Canned coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon Garam masala
• 0.5 teaspoon Red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Press the tofu to remove excess water. Then cut it into 1-inch cubes.

Step 2

Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the tofu and sauté until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 3

Finely chop the onion, garlic, and ginger.

Step 4

In a large saucepan, heat the remaining tablespoon of coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 5

Add the garlic and ginger and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down into a thick paste, around 5 minutes.

Step 7

Stir in the turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and red chili powder. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring often.

Step 8

Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Add salt and stir to combine.

Step 9

Add the browned tofu cubes into the sauce and simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors.

Step 10

Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon juice.

Step 11

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve the curry hot with rice or naan.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1334.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1710.2

Total Fat 146.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 111.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2521.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 76.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.1g	0%
Total Sugars 33.6g
Protein 57.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 822.8mg	0%
Iron 25.5mg	0%
Potassium 2855.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 71.1%

Protein: 12.4%

Carbs: 16.4%