Palak Tofu (Curried Spinach and Tofu)

Adapted from https://www.cookwithmanali.com/palak-tofu/

Ingredients

• 1 package firm tofu, cut into cubes
• 1 tbsp garlic-infused canola oil
• 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon red chili flakes
• salt, to taste

Spinach Curry

• 2 lbs baby spinach
• 1 can diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 tsp ground ginger (or 1 inch fresh ginger, roughly chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon curry, to sprinkle
• 1/8 teaspoon red chili powder, or to taste
• 3/4 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 to 1 cup coconut milk (1/2 a can)
• 1 tbsp garlic-infused canola oil
• salt, to taste
• 1-2 teaspoon sugar or honey, optional
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, optional

Instructions

Tofu

1. In a pan heat the oil. Add cubed tofu and sprinkle paprika, salt, pepper and red chili flakes.
2. Saute a few minutes on each side, until tofu is light golden brown in color. Set aside.

Spinach Curry

1. In a large pot, heat oil and add ginger. (If using fresh ginger, cook 3 minutes; if using ground ginger, cook 1 minute.) 
2. Add tomatoes, curry powder, cumin powder, salt, and chili powder, and cook 3-4 minutes.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted, then another 2 minutes.
4. Transfer mixture to a blender, add 1/2 cup (or more) coconut milk, and blend to a smooth paste. (Add coconut milk until puree is desired consistency.)
5. Return spinach puree to pot and add sauteed tofu.
6. Mix well and also add water at this step [if required] to adjust the consistency of curry to preference.
7. Add sugar/honey [if using] and mix.
8. Cover and let the curry simmer for 10 minutes on medium-low heat.
9. Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice (optional) and serve hot with Indian bread or basmati rice.