Tandoori Tofu with Cilantro Mint Chutney

Ingredients

• 1 block extra firm tofu (torn into irregular pieces)
• salt (for boiling water)
• 0.5 cup Greek yogurt (divided (some for marinade, one big dollop for chutney))
• 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste
• 0.5 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp Kashmiri chili powder
• 1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (divided for marinade and chutney)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (plus extra for spraying)
• red food coloring (optional, for authentic street food look)
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro (for chutney)
• 0.5 cup fresh mint (for chutney)
• 1 Serrano chili (for chutney)

Steps

1. 1

   Tear the block of extra firm tofu into irregular, bite-sized pieces by hand to create more surface area for the marinade.

2. 2

   Bring a pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Add the tofu pieces and boil for 5 minutes. This process denatures and tightens the soy protein for a firmer, meatier texture.

3. 3

   Drain the tofu and set the pieces aside on a paper towel to cool and dry thoroughly.

4. 4

   Prepare the tandoori marinade by whisking together Greek yogurt, turmeric, coriander powder, Kashmiri chili powder, dried fenugreek leaves, lemon juice, ginger garlic paste, oil, and a drop of red food coloring if using.

5. 5

   Place the cooled tofu pieces in a bowl and coat thoroughly with the marinade.

6. 6

   Arrange the tofu in a single layer in an air fryer basket. Lightly spray the tops with oil.

7. 7

   Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until the edges are charred and crispy.

8. 8

   While the tofu cooks, prepare the chutney by blending one bunch of cilantro, a large handful of mint, one Serrano chili, a squeeze of lemon juice, a big dollop of Greek yogurt, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

9. 9

   Serve the hot tandoori tofu immediately with the cilantro mint chutney on the side or drizzled over the top.

Notes

Boiling the tofu in salt water is a key technique to improve the texture of the soy protein. The red food coloring is optional but provides the classic vibrant look found in Indian street food.

Nutrition per serving

• appetizer
• vegetarian
• high-protein
• air-fried
• Indian
• tofu
• gluten-free