Hot and Sweet Soya Recipe
Overview:
This delightful Hot and Sweet Soya recipe is a flavorful concoction of tofu chunks marinated in a tantalizing blend of spices, cooked to perfection with onions, tomatoes, and a touch of sweetness from apricot jam. Created by the talented Jyoti Nair and featured as the winning recipe in this week’s Thursday magazine, it’s a must-try for those seeking a burst of flavors in their lunch or snack time. Bursting with Asian and Indian influences, this dish promises to be a hit at potlucks, weeknight dinners, or whenever you crave a savory treat. Let’s dive into the recipe and unlock its culinary magic!
Ingredients:
Quantity | Ingredient |
---|---|
100g | Tofu |
3 | Onions |
3 | Tomatoes |
2 | Green chilies |
1 | Red chili powder |
1/2 tsp | Turmeric powder |
1 tsp | Garam masala powder |
2 | Salt |
– | Low-fat plain yogurt |
4 | Coriander leaves |
2 tbsp | Ginger-garlic paste |
2 tbsp | Apricot jam |
– | Oil |
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 230.4
- Fat Content: 15.1g
- Saturated Fat Content: 2g
- Cholesterol Content: 0.3mg
- Sodium Content: 25.6mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 22.9g
- Fiber Content: 3g
- Sugar Content: 12.4g
- Protein Content: 4.2g
Instructions:
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 52 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 52 minutes
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Soak the Soya Chunks:
- Begin by soaking the soya chunks in warm salted water for about 30 minutes. This step helps to rehydrate the tofu and enhance its texture.
-
Marinate the Soya Chunks:
- After soaking, squeeze out the excess water from the soya chunks and wash them thoroughly. Drain them well.
- In a bowl, prepare a marinade by combining ginger-garlic paste and low-fat plain yogurt.
- Marinate the drained soya chunks in this flavorful mixture for approximately 20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
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Saute the Soya Chunks:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the marinated soya chunks and sauté them until all the liquid evaporates, and they turn golden brown. Set aside.
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Prepare the Spiced Onion-Tomato Base:
- In the same pot, heat 3 tablespoons of oil.
- Add sliced onions and fry them until they turn golden brown, infusing the dish with rich flavors.
- Reduce the flame and add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds to release their aromatic essence.
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Cook the Tomatoes and Green Chilies:
- Introduce diced tomatoes and sliced green chilies into the pot.
- Cook them until they soften and turn mushy, covering the pot with a lid to retain the moisture and flavors.
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Combine and Cook:
- Now, add the sautéed soya chunks to the pot along with salt to taste.
- Mix everything well, ensuring that the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Cover the pot and let the dish simmer on low flame for approximately 15 minutes, allowing the ingredients to mingle and intensify in flavor.
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Add the Sweet Touch:
- Uncover the pot and introduce a delightful twist to the dish by adding apricot jam.
- Let it cook for an additional minute, allowing the jam to infuse its sweet notes into the savory concoction.
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Final Touches:
- Sprinkle a pinch of garam masala powder over the dish, enhancing its aroma and flavor profile.
- Garnish your creation with fresh coriander leaves and a handful of fried onions for added texture and visual appeal.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Your Hot and Sweet Soya is now ready to be savored!
- Serve it piping hot alongside chapatis (Indian flatbreads), white bread, or puris for a complete and satisfying meal experience.
Tips:
- Ensure to properly drain and squeeze out excess water from the soya chunks before marinating to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by altering the quantity of red chili powder and green chilies.
- Experiment with different jams or preserves for a unique flavor twist.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves just before serving to add a burst of freshness to the dish.
Conclusion:
With its harmonious blend of spices, tender tofu chunks, and a touch of sweetness, this Hot and Sweet Soya recipe is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Whether you whip it up for a cozy dinner at home or impress guests at a potluck, this dish is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that promises to delight all your senses. Bon appétit! 🍽️