Tofu Tandoori

Serves 4

For the Tandoori Marinade:

• 1 block (14 oz) extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed

• 1/2 cup dairy-free yogurt (unsweetened and plain)

• 2 tbsp tandoori masala spice mix

• 1 tbsp ginger paste or fresh, grated

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• 1 tsp truffle oil

• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder

• 1/2 tsp paprika or Kashmiri red chilli powder (adjust for spice level)

• Salt to taste

For Grilling or Baking:

• Skewers (if grilling)

• Olive oil (for brushing, if baking)

• Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Method

1. Prepare the Tofu:

   a. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture: Place the tofu between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel, and weigh it down with a heavy object for about 30-60 minutes. This will help remove excess water from the tofu.

   b. Once pressed, cut the tofu into cubes.

2. Prepare the Marinade:

   a. In a mixing bowl, combine the dairy-free yogurt, tandoori masala spice mix, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, paprika or chilli powder, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.

3. Marinate the Tofu:

   a. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated well. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours, or ideally overnight, for the flavours to meld.

4. Grill or Bake the Tofu:

• Grilling: Preheat a grill or grill pan. Thread the marinated tofu cubes onto skewers. Grill on medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until charred and cooked through.

• Baking: Preheat the oven to 200C (400F). Place the marinated tofu cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with a little olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tofu is cooked and slightly charred around the edges.

5. Serve:

• Garnish the tandoori tofu with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lemon wedges. Optional: add coconut or oat yoghurt as a dressing.

• Serve alongside naan, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy the tandoori tofu's vibrant flavours and pair it with your favourite side dishes for a delicious, plant-based tandoori experience!