Tofu Manchurian

If you're a fan of delicious and flavorful vegetarian dishes, then you're in for a treat with this tofu manchurian recipe. This unique dish combines the softness of tofu with the bold flavors of Manchurian sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience that will satisfy your taste buds. Whether you're a tofu lover or simply looking for a new and exciting recipe to try, this tofu manchurian is definitely worth a try. So, let's dive into the recipe and learn how to make this delectable dish!

What is Tofu Manchurian?

• Tofu Manchurian is a delectable Indo-Chinese dish that combines the succulent texture of tofu with the bold flavors of Indian spices and unique seasonings. This dish is a perfect blend of crispy tofu cubes coated in a flavorful and aromatic sauce made with a combination of soy sauce, chili and garlic sauce, tomato ketchup, and vinegar.
• The addition of crunchy vegetables like capsicums and onions adds a delightful texture to this dish, making it a popular choice for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

Why You'll Love Tofu Manchurian?

• Irresistible Texture: Tofu Manchurian offers a delightful combination of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a texture lover's dream dish.
• Health Benefits Galore: Tofu, the main ingredient of this dish, is a great source of protein and various nutrients. It's also known for its heart-healthy and weight management properties, making Tofu Manchurian a guilt-free indulgence.
• Versatile and Flavorful: This dish not only packs a flavorful punch but also pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a versatile addition to any meal or snack time.
• A Delicious Vegan Option: For those following a vegan diet, Tofu Manchurian is a satisfying and delectable alternative to traditional meat-based dishes.
• Perfect for Spice Lovers: With the perfect balance of spice and tanginess, Tofu Manchurian is a go-to dish for those who enjoy bold and zesty flavors.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple and straightforward instructions, Tofu Manchurian is a breeze to whip up, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients for Tofu Manchurian

• Firm Tofu: Tofu is the main ingredient in this recipe, providing a soft and creamy texture to the dish.
• Corn Flour: Corn flour is used to coat the tofu, giving it a crispy exterior when stir-fried.
• Black Pepper Powder: Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor to the dish.
• Olive Oil: Used for stir-frying the tofu and vegetables, adding a rich and fruity flavor to the dish.
• Garlic: Adds a savory and aromatic element to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Onion and Capsicums: These vegetables provide a crunchy texture and sweet flavor to the dish, balancing out the spiciness of the other ingredients.

How To Make Tofu Manchurian?

If you're craving a flavorful and hearty meal, tofu manchurian is a great option to try. Here's a simple guide to making this delicious dish at home.

• Start by preparing the tofu. Cut the firm tofu into cubes and coat them in a mixture of corn flour, black pepper powder, and salt. Let the coated tofu cubes sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
• Next, heat olive oil in a pan and stir-fry the tofu cubes until they are golden brown on all sides. This step is crucial for giving the tofu a crispy texture and a rich, savory flavor.
• In a separate pan, sauté garlic, onions, spring onion greens, and diced capsicums until they are cooked but still crunchy. Then, add a combination of soy sauce, chili and garlic sauce, tomato ketchup, vinegar, and a pinch of salt for a burst of flavor.
• Once the sauce is well combined, add the fried tofu cubes and coat them thoroughly in the sauce over high heat. This step ensures that the tofu absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
• Finally, garnish the tofu manchurian with finely chopped spring onion for a fresh and colorful touch and serve it with a side of tangy tomato ketchup.

By following these steps, you'll be able to create a mouthwatering tofu manchurian dish that is bursting with flavor and texture. Enjoy the delicious combination of crispy tofu and savory sauce in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dish Pairing:

For a complete meal, serve tofu manchurian with steamed white rice or fried rice. The rice will complement the flavors of the manchurian and create a satisfying meal.

Vegetable Manchurian:

Another great option for a side dish is vegetable manchurian. The combination of the two dishes will provide a variety of flavors and textures, making for a delicious and fulfilling meal.

Crispy Noodles:

Pair tofu manchurian with crispy noodles for a crunchy and savory addition to the meal. The noodles will add a delightful crunchiness to each bite of the manchurian.

Fresh Salad:

Serve a fresh and light salad as a side dish to balance the bold flavors of the tofu manchurian. A simple salad with lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes will make a refreshing addition to the meal.

Chow Mein:

Chow mein is another great option to pair with tofu manchurian. The crispy noodles and flavorful sauce of the chow mein will complement the dish perfectly.

Hot and Sour Soup:

Enjoy a bowl of hot and sour soup as a starter to your meal. The tangy and spicy flavors of the soup will prepare your palate for the bold flavors of the tofu manchurian.

Tips for Tofu Manchurian

• Preparation Duration: The preparation time for this delicious tofu manchurian recipe is approximately 15-20 minutes. Make sure to cut the tofu into evenly sized cubes and coat them well with the flour mixture for the best results.
• Cooking Techniques: When stir-frying the tofu, ensure that the oil is heated well to achieve a golden brown crispy texture on all sides of the tofu cubes. Also, when sautéing the vegetables, cook them until they are half-cooked but still crunchy to retain their freshness and texture.
• Importance of Garnishing: Garnishing the tofu manchurian with finely chopped spring onion not only adds a pop of color and freshness, but also enhances the overall presentation of the dish, making it even more appetizing. Don't forget to garnish it before serving to impress your guests or family members.
• Serving Suggestion: Tofu manchurian pairs well with a side of steamed rice or noodles. Serve it with a drizzle of tomato ketchup for a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory tofu dish perfectly.
• Variation: Feel free to customize the level of spiciness in the dish by adjusting the amount of chili and garlic sauce according to your preference. You can also add other vegetables such as baby corn or mushrooms to create your own unique version of tofu manchurian.
• Storage Tip: Tofu manchurian is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it in a pan before serving to maintain its texture and flavors.

Enjoy making and serving this flavorful tofu manchurian for a satisfying meal that everyone will love!

Variations for Tofu Manchurian

• Vegetable Variation: Instead of tofu, try using mixed vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots for a colorful and nutritious twist on this classic dish.
• Protein Variation: Swap out the tofu for paneer, mushrooms, or even cauliflower florets for a different texture and flavor in your manchurian.
• Spicy Variation: Adjust the amount of chili and garlic sauce to suit your spice preference, or add in some dried red chilies for an extra kick.
• Sweet and Sour Variation: Increase the amount of vinegar and tomato ketchup for a tangier and more flavorful sauce.
• Gluten-Free Variation: Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free cornstarch instead of corn flour for a gluten-free version of tofu manchurian.
• Fusion Variation: Experiment with adding in other flavor elements like ginger, pineapple, or even a touch of coconut milk for a fusion-inspired twist on this Chinese-Indian dish.

How to Store Tofu Manchurian

• Properly Store Tofu: To maintain the freshness of your tofu, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container filled with water. Change the water every day to keep the tofu fresh and firm.
• Keep Vegetables Fresh: Store the diced capsicums and onions in the refrigerator in airtight containers or plastic bags to prevent them from wilting or spoiling. This will help preserve their crunchiness for the tofu manchurian.
• Maintain Sauce Freshness: Keep the sauces, such as tomato ketchup, chili and garlic sauce, and soy sauce, tightly sealed in the refrigerator after opening. This will prevent them from losing their flavor and freshness.
• Prep Ahead of Time: You can also prepare the tofu cubes and keep them in the refrigerator for a day before making the tofu manchurian. This will save you time and make the cooking process faster when you're ready to make the dish.
• Avoid Excess Moisture: After washing and draining the tofu, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels before tossing it in the flour mixture. Excess moisture can affect the texture of the tofu when cooking.
• Monitor Expiry Dates: Check the expiry dates of all the ingredients used in the recipe to ensure they are fresh and safe to consume. This will help maintain the flavor and quality of the tofu manchurian.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use other vegetables in tofu manchurian?

• Yes, you can customize the dish by adding or substituting vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, or mushrooms to suit your taste preferences. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for each vegetable.

How can I make tofu manchurian less spicy?

• If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chili and garlic sauce or omit it altogether. You can also adjust the amount of black pepper powder and skip adding extra green chilies to the dish.

Is tofu manchurian gluten-free?

• Yes, tofu manchurian can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce and making sure that all other ingredients are free from gluten contamination. Corn flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative to all-purpose flour for coating the tofu.

Can I make tofu manchurian in advance?

• While tofu manchurian is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the tofu and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, simply stir-fry the ingredients and add the sauces to finish the dish.

How do I adjust the consistency of the sauce in tofu manchurian?

• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can adjust the amount of corn flour used for coating the tofu. For a thinner sauce, you can add a little water or vegetable broth while cooking the dish.

Recipe Card

Tofu Manchurian

Tofu Manchurian 2018-11-22 02:53:27

Serves 3                             Print        

Prep Time   00:10        

Cook Time   00:20        

Total Time   00:30                      

Ingredients

• 200 grams firm tofu, cubed
• 1/4 cup corn flour
• 1/4 tsp black pepper powder
• salt to taste (I used 1/4 tsp)
• 3 to 4 tbsp olive oil          

For sauce

• 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic
• 1 medium sized onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp finely chopped spring onion greens and whites
• 1/2 cup diced red and green capsicums
• 4 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 2 tsp chili and garlic sauce
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tsp vinegar
• pinch of salt
• 2 tbsp finely chopped spring onion for garnishing        

Instructions

• In a wide bowl, add the corn flour, pepper powder and salt and mix well until combined.
• Meanwhile, wash and drain the tofu and then cut it into cubes.
• Then transfer the tofu cubes to the flour mixture and and toss well to coat and set aside for 10 mins.
• Meanwhile, heat a non stick pan with 3 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
• When the oil heats, add the tofu cubes and stir fry until all sides are golden brown. Remove them from the pan and set aside.          

How to prepare Manchurian

• Heat a pan with the remaining oil, add chopped garlic, and fry until they become golden brown.
• Add finely chopped onions and spring onion greens and whites, stir-fry for 1 minute or until transparent.
• Then add diced capsicums and saute until half cooked but still they are crunchy.
• Pour soy sauce, chili and garlic sauce, tomato ketchup, vinegar and salt, give a quick stir.
• Then add fried tofu cubes and saute well over high heat for a minute or until the sauce well coated with tofu cubes.
• Finally, garnish it with spring onion and serve tofu manchurian with tomato ketchup.         

By Santhi Therese    The Indian Claypot

https://theindianclaypot.com/

Step-By-Step Instructions:

In a wide bowl, add the cornflour, pepper
powder and salt and mix well until combined.

Meanwhile, wash and drain the tofu

and then cut it into cubes.

Then transfer the tofu cubes to the flour mixture

and toss well to coat and set aside for 10 mins.

Meanwhile, heat a nonstick pan with
3 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.

When the oil heats, add the tofu cubes

and stir-fry until all sides are golden brown.

Remove them from the pan and set aside.

Heat a pan with remaining oil, add
chopped garlic, and fry until they become
golden brown.

Add finely chopped onions and
spring onion greens and whites,

stir-fry for 1 minute or until transparent.

Then add diced capsicums and saute
until half cooked but still they are crunchy.

Pour soy sauce, chili and garlic sauce,
tomato ketchup, vinegar and salt,

give a quick stir.

Then add fried tofu cubes and saute
well over high heat for a minute or

until the sauce well coated with tofu cubes.

Finally, garnish it with spring onion and
serve tofu Manchurian with tomato ketchup.