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Thai Inspired Green Curry Tofu: A Vegan Delight

Thai cuisine is celebrated for its complex flavours and vibrant colours, with a culinary tradition that beautifully balances sweet, salty, sour, and spicy notes. One dish that stands out in the realm of Thai cooking is green curry, known for its aromatic coconut milk base and a medley of fresh ingredients. In this article, we will explore a delightful vegan version of this classic dish, featuring tofu as the star ingredient: Thai Inspired Green Curry Tofu.

The Essence of Green Curry

Green curry, or "Gaeng Keow Wan," is traditionally made with green curry paste, a blend of green chillies, garlic, lemongrass, galangal, and various herbs. This paste forms the foundation of the dish, providing a rich and spicy base. While the original recipe often includes meat, this vegan adaptation uses tofu, making it accessible for those following a plant-based diet.

Why Tofu?

Tofu is a fantastic source of plant-based protein, and its spongy texture allows it to absorb the flavours of the curry beautifully. When cooked correctly, tofu can be creamy on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside, creating a satisfying contrast in every bite. Additionally, this protein-rich alternative is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for incorporating into various dishes.

Ingredients

To make a scrumptious Thai Inspired Green Curry Tofu, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Curry

• 400g of firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 400ml can of coconut milk
• 2-3 tablespoons of green curry paste (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (green or red)
• 150g of sugar snap peas or green beans
• 2 teaspoons of soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon of lime juice
• Fresh basil leaves (Thai basil if available) for garnish

For the Accompaniments

• Jasmine rice or whole grain rice
• Lime wedges for serving

Method

Preparing the Tofu

1. Press the tofu: Begin by pressing your tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and place a weight on top for about 30 minutes. This step helps the tofu absorb the flavours of the curry.

2. Cube and pan-fry: Once pressed, cut the tofu into cubes. Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add the tofu and pan-fry for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is golden and slightly crispy. Remove the tofu and set it aside.

Making the Curry

1. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary, then toss in the sliced onion. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add the curry paste: Introduce the green curry paste to the pan, frying it for one to two minutes to release the oils and intensify the flavours.

3. Incorporate the coconut milk: Pour in the coconut milk, stirring well to combine with the curry paste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

4. Add the vegetables: Stir in the bell pepper and sugar snap peas (or green beans). Allow the curry to simmer for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.

5. Return the tofu: Gently fold the crispy tofu back into the curry. Add the soy sauce or tamari and lime juice, adjusting the seasoning to your taste. Let everything simmer for an additional couple of minutes to heat through.

Serving

Serve your Thai Inspired Green Curry Tofu over fluffy jasmine rice, and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant touch. To enhance the flavours further, serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

Conclusion

Thai Inspired Green Curry Tofu is a deliciously satisfying dish that embodies the essence of Thai cooking while being completely vegan. Each bite delivers a burst of flavour that is aromatic, creamy, and slightly spicy, appealing to both dedicated vegans and those seeking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. Enjoy this vibrant curry at any time of year, and relish the tastes of Thailand from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re cooking for friends or enjoying a quiet evening meal, this dish is sure to impress and please all palates.

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