Tofu peas curry also known as matar tofu is a vegan version of the classic North Indian matar paneer recipe. It is made with green peas and tofu instead of paneer. This homestyle version is lighter and less creamy than typical North Indian curries, which makes it healthier for everyday meals. It pairs wonderfully with rice, roti, naan, paratha or with jeera rice.
Tofu Matar Curry
Tofu is a great source of protein to include in your meal when you are dieting. This curry is a great side dish to have wit roti, tofu makes a great substitute for paneer which is not advisable to consume when you are dieting.
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Normally tofu is bland, and it just absorbs all the flavours which you add into it. And pressure cooking the curry makes the tofu really soft and the tofu picks up the flavour better. Check out My Homemade Tofu Recipe.
About Matar Tofu
Tofu matar curry is a delicious vegan and healthy twist to the classic North Indian matar paneer curry. In this version, tofu cubes are cooked with green peas in a spicy tomato gravy with aromatic spices.
Tofu is a healthy, protein packed alternative to paneer, which makes it perfect for anyone following a vegan or low fat diet.
While paneer is made from curdled milk, and is high in fat, tofu is made from coagulated soy milk and is low in calories but rich in protein.
This makes tofu a great choice for vegans or anyone looking for light, nutritious curries to serve with roti, paratha, naan or rice.
Similar Recipes
In this recipe, tofu cubes and green peas are cooked together in a flavourful tomato based gravy with simple everyday spices. It comes together quickly in one pot using a pressure cooker, which makes it great for busy days.
This tofu curry pairs well with steamed rice, jeera rice, ghee rice, or even with Indian flatbreads like naan, roti, paratha and chapati. Overall, this curry tastes so light, healthy and tasty with less effort and minimal ingredients.
For me, curries are some of the easiest and quickest meals to prepare and this vegan tofu curry is a must try if you’re looking for easy, healthy curry.
Ingredients
- Tofu : Tofu is a great source of plant-based protein. It has a soft, firm texture similar to paneer, but is more nutritious. Check my homemade tofu recipe on my blog to make on your own.
- Peas : I have used fresh peas, but you can also use frozen peas. They add natural sweetness and a pop of green color to the curry.
- Oil : Any neutral cooking oil works well. It helps cook the spices evenly and gives the curry a smooth, rich texture.
- Tomato puree : Tomato puree forms the base of the curry. It adds a mild tanginess and helps thicken the curry.
- Whole spices : Cumin seeds, cinnamon and bay leaf are tempered in hot oil. They release a warm aroma and enhance the overall flavour of the curry.
- Spice powder : Chilli powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder and garam masala powder are the main spices used for the curry’s signature flavour and color. I have used my homemade garam masala powder to make the curry more rich and aromatic.
- Ginger garlic paste : Ginger garlic paste adds a strong aroma to the curry.
- Salt and sugar : Salt and sugar are the essential seasonings used to enhance and balance all the flavours in the curry.
- Coriander leaves : Coriander leaves are used as a garnish to add bright flavour and fresh finishing look to the curry.
Step by Step Pictures
Shell Green peas
1)I am using fresh green peas for this recipe. You can use fresh shelled peas or frozen.
2)Shell green peas. I somehow find this process relaxing.
3)Once peas are shelled, rinse them once and set aside.
Tomato Puree
4)Take freshly chopped tomatoes in a blender.
5)Make them into a puree without adding any water. Set this aside for a moment.
Tempering spices
6)Heat oil in a pressure cooker. Add in whole spices into the hot oil. I am using cumin, bay leaf and cinnamon. Let the spices sizzle in hot oil for a minute.
7)Add in ginger garlic paste into the oil and saute for a minute.
Make Curry base
8)Add in tomato puree which we made earlier into the cooker.
9)Cook the tomatoes until oil separates from the mixture and raw smell leaves from it.
10)Add in spice powders into the tomatoes. I am using coriander, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, and cumin powder.
11)Cook this for a minute until the raw smell from the spices leave.
Make Matar tofu
12)Now add in fresh green peas. If using frozen peas, add in the end.
13)Pour in water, season with salt. Add enough water to make curry.
14)Add some sugar to balance the taste. Cover and cook for 1 whistle. Now turn off the heat and let the steam escape by itself.
15)Open the cooker, the peas would have cooked. Now Add in tofu cubes into the curry.
16)Simmer for 5 minutes on low heat until the tofu absorbs the flavour of the curry.
17)Sprinkle some garam masala powder and mix well.
18)Add in coriander leaves and mix well.
19)Matar tofu is ready to serve.
20)Enjoy curry with hot roti, rice or paratha.
Expert Tips
Press the tofu : Always press and dry the tofu well before cooking. This improves its texture and helps it absorb the curry flavours better.
Adjust spices : Adjust the quantity of garam masala and other spices according to your taste preference. You can make it mild or more spicy as per your liking.
Make it creamy : For a richer texture, you can add cashew paste or fresh cream to the curry. This gives a smooth and creamy finish look.
Storage : Store the leftover tofu peas curry in an airtight container. It stays well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Serving : Serve this curry with ghee rice, pulao or jeera rice. It also pairs well with Indian flatbreads like naan, roti, chapati or paratha for a complete meal.
FAQ
Yes, gently press the tofu to remove excess water. This helps the tofu hold its shape better while cooking and allows it to absorb the flavour of the curry.
Yes, frozen peas work perfectly too. Simply add them towards the end of cooking so they remain tender and retain the color.
Yes, you can add cream if you prefer to keep it richer and more delicious curry. It gives a smooth, creamy texture and enhances the overall flavour.
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Matar Tofu Recipe | Tofu Peas Masala (Curry Recipe)
Tofu peas curry also known as matar tofu is a vegan version of the classic North Indian matar paneer recipe. It is made with green peas and tofu instead of paneer. This homestyle version is lighter and less creamy than typical North Indian curries, which makes it healthier for everyday meals. It pairs wonderfully with rice, roti, naan, paratha or with jeera rice.
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Matar Tofu Recipe | Tofu Peas Masala (Curry Recipe)
Amount per Serving
% Daily Value*
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
