Biryani-Spiced Crispy Tofu with Tamarind Glaze

Category Main Dish | Vegan | Pan-Seared
Servings 3-4
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 Minutes

Intro

Golden, crispy tofu slabs are coated in aromatic Biryani spice and finished with a glossy tamarind glaze that balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. This dish is bold, satisfying, and plated beautifully — perfect for grain bowls, flatbreads, or a modern plant-based main.

Ingredients

For the Tofu

14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and sliced into thick slabs
2 tbsp olive oil
1½ tsp Biryani spice blend
½ tsp salt
1 tbsp cornstarch (for crispiness)

For the Tamarind Glaze

2 tbsp tamarind paste
1½ tbsp maple syrup or honey
1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
2 tbsp water

To Finish (Optional but Recommended)

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Thinly sliced red chili or chili flakes
Sesame seeds or nigella seeds

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu

Pat tofu slabs dry. Sprinkle evenly with salt, Biryani spice, and cornstarch, gently pressing to coat all sides.

Pan-Sear

Heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat. Sear tofu for 3–4 minutes per side until deeply golden and crisp. Remove and set aside.

Make the Glaze

Lower heat to medium. In the same pan, whisk together tamarind paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, and water. Simmer 2–3 minutes until glossy and slightly thickened.

Glaze the Tofu

Return tofu to the pan and spoon glaze over each piece. Cook 1–2 minutes, flipping once, until coated and sticky.

Serve

Transfer to a plate, drizzle remaining glaze, and finish with herbs and seeds.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over turmeric rice or lemony lentils
Tuck into flatbread with cucumber salad
Pair with roasted vegetables or a tahini drizzle

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Lameise

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