Curried Tofu Kebabs – A Flavorful Vegetarian Delight
If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with vibrant colors and explosive flavors, the Curried Tofu Kebabs are a perfect choice. These skewers, featuring protein-packed tofu and an array of crisp, fresh vegetables, make for an exceptional appetizer or side dish. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or hosting a party, these kebabs can be easily served alongside fluffy white rice for a wholesome meal or paired with a cooling yogurt dip to impress your guests. Their striking color contrast adds a delightful visual appeal to your spread, and the aromatic spices elevate their flavor profile to a new level.
Ingredients
For the Marination:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ginger (grated) | 1 inch |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Lemon juice | 4 tablespoons |
| Soy sauce | 4 tablespoons |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chinese 5 Spice Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Red chili flakes | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
For the Vegetable Kebab:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tofu (cut into cubes) | 250 grams |
| Red, Yellow, or Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum, cubed) | 2 pieces |
| Green zucchini (thickly sliced) | 2 pieces |
| Onions (diced into squares) | 2 pieces |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Instructions
1. Prepare Skewers:
Start by soaking at least 8 wooden skewers in water for about 20 minutes. This will help prevent them from burning while grilling.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated ginger, minced garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, turmeric powder, Chinese 5 Spice Powder, red chili flakes, and salt. Mix everything well until the marinade is smooth and aromatic.
3. Marinate the Ingredients:
Add the cubed tofu, bell peppers, zucchini slices, and diced onions into the marinade. Stir gently to ensure that everything is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 1 hour. If you have more time, marinating for longer will help the tofu and vegetables absorb even more of the flavorful spices.
4. Prepare for Grilling:
Once the tofu and vegetables have marinated, it’s time to thread them onto the skewers. Be sure to wear rubber gloves while handling the marinade, as the turmeric and chili flakes can stain your hands. Carefully thread the tofu and vegetables onto the soaked skewers, alternating between the tofu and the vegetables to create a balanced mix.
5. Preheat the Grill:
Heat a grill pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the pan with a bit of oil to prevent the kebabs from sticking. Alternatively, if you have access to a BBQ grill, you can use that, or you can also broil the kebabs in the oven.
6. Grill the Kebabs:
Place the skewers onto the preheated grill pan. Cook for about 20-30 minutes, turning the skewers occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred, and the tofu has a golden-brown crust. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the vegetables and the heat of the grill.
7. Serve:
Once the kebabs are perfectly grilled, remove them from the skewers and serve immediately. These Curried Tofu Kebabs are excellent when paired with warm brown rice or served as a stand-alone party snack. You can also complement them with a yogurt dip or a cheese dip for added flavor.
Nutritional Information (Approximate values per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
| Vitamin A | 25% of daily value |
| Vitamin C | 40% of daily value |
| Iron | 15% of daily value |
Tips for Perfect Kebabs:
- Tofu Texture: For firmer tofu, use extra-firm tofu and press out excess moisture before marinating.
- Grilling Method: If you don’t have a grill pan, a regular frying pan or a BBQ grill will work just fine.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or eggplant to suit your taste.
- Marinating Time: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful your kebabs will be, so don’t be afraid to let them sit overnight in the fridge for an even more intense flavor profile.
These Curried Tofu Kebabs are a wholesome and protein-packed addition to your dinner table. With their vibrant colors, delicious marination, and grilling perfection, they’ll be the star of your meal or party. Whether enjoyed with rice, or as an appetizer with a dip, these kebabs are sure to impress!
