Dairy-Free Paneer Masala

Savor the irresistible flavors of Indian cuisine with this Dairy-Free Paneer Masala, a vegan twist on the classic dish. Crafted with protein-packed extra-firm tofu as a substitute for paneer, this recipe captures the creamy, spiced essence of traditional masala using rich coconut milk instead of dairy. Fragrant cumin seeds, aromatic sautéed onions, and a medley of warm spices like garam masala and turmeric create a robust, savory curry that’s perfectly balanced. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a simmering sauce that melds beautifully with the tofu, this dairy-free delight is a comforting, plant-based meal. Serve it over fluffy rice or pair with vegan naan for a satisfying dinner that’s packed with flavor and completely dairy-free!

Nutriscore Rating: 82/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 grams Extra-firm tofu
• 400 ml Coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons Oil
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 1 large Onion
• 3 medium Garlic cloves
• 1 inch piece Ginger
• 2 large Tomatoes
• 1 small Green chili
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon Coriander powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon Garam masala
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro leaves

Directions

Step 1

Press extra-firm tofu to remove excess water, then cut it into 1-inch cubes.

Step 2

In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat and add cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until aromatic.

Step 3

Finely chop the onion, garlic, and ginger. Add them to the pan and sauté for 5 minutes or until the onion turns golden brown.

Step 4

Chop the tomatoes and green chili. Add them to the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes until the tomatoes become soft and mushy.

Step 5

Stir in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 6

Add the coconut milk, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 7

Gently add the tofu cubes and let them simmer in the sauce for 10 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.

Step 8

Stir in the garam masala and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 9

Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.

Step 10

Serve hot with rice or dairy-free naan.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1410.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1187.1

Total Fat 64.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 7.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2525.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 96.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 19.5g	0%
Total Sugars 48.7g
Protein 70.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 2931.6mg	0%
Iron 17.6mg	0%
Potassium 2692.4mg	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: 46.4%

Protein: 22.7%

Carbs: 31.0%