Tofu Biryani Recipe
Tofu Biryani is a vibrant and aromatic dish that combines the traditional flavors of biryani with protein-rich tofu. This vegetarian biryani is perfect for those who want a hearty, plant-based meal without compromising on taste. Follow this comprehensive guide to create a delightful Tofu Biryani that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
For the Rice:
- 3 cups basmati rice
- 6 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 bay leaf
- 4-5 green cardamom pods
- 2-3 cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon ghee or oil
For the Tofu Marinade:
- 400 grams firm tofu, cubed
- 1 cup yogurt (or plant-based yogurt for a vegan option)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Gravy:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 3 tablespoons ghee or oil
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fried onions
- 1/4 cup cashew nuts, roasted
- 1/4 cup raisins, fried
- 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
For the Saffron Milk (Optional):
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands
- 1/4 cup warm milk
Preparation
Step 1: Marinating the Tofu
In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, green chilies, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, salt, and lemon juice. Add the cubed tofu to the marinade, making sure the tofu is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.
Step 2: Preparing the Rice
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Add the salt, bay leaf, cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, and ghee or oil. Add the rinsed rice to the boiling water. Cook until the rice is 70-80% done (the rice should be firm and not fully cooked). Drain the rice and set aside.
Step 3: Preparing the Gravy
Heat ghee or oil in a large pan. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies. Sauté until the raw smell disappears. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy. Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Cook for a few minutes until the spices are well combined. Add the marinated tofu to the pan. Cook until the tofu is browned and heated through. Stir in the chopped coriander and mint leaves. Cook for another 5 minutes until the gravy is thickened.
Step 4: Layering the Biryani
In a heavy-bottomed pot or a large oven-safe dish, spread a layer of the partially cooked rice. Add a layer of the tofu gravy over the rice. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of rice on top. (Optional) Drizzle the saffron milk over the top layer of rice. Garnish with fried onions, roasted cashew nuts, fried raisins, and fresh coriander and mint leaves.
Step 5: Dum Cooking
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. If the lid is not tight, seal it with dough to trap the steam. Cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can place the pot in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for the same amount of time. Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Tofu Biryani is best served hot with a side of raita (yogurt mixed with cucumber and spices) and a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it with a cooling yogurt drink or a traditional Indian beverage like mango lassi.
Tips for the Perfect Tofu Biryani
- Choosing the Right Tofu: Use firm tofu for this recipe, as it holds its shape better during cooking.
- Spice Balance: Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preference. You can reduce the amount of chili powder and green chilies for a milder biryani.
- Dum Cooking: Ensure the pot is tightly sealed to trap the steam, which helps in evenly cooking the layers and infusing the flavors.
Variations to Try
- Vegetable Tofu Biryani: Add a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, and peas, to the tofu gravy for added texture and flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based yogurt and ghee alternatives to make this recipe completely vegan.
Health Benefits of Tofu Biryani
- Tofu: A great source of plant-based protein, tofu is also rich in calcium and iron.
- Spices: The spices used in biryani, such as turmeric and cumin, offer numerous health benefits including anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
Conclusion
Our Tofu Biryani Recipe is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together the essence of traditional biryani with a vegetarian twist. Whether you're serving it for a special occasion or as a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and delightful aroma.
