How to Make Vegan Paneer at Home: A Simple Guide

Paneer is a beloved staple in many Indian dishes, known for its creamy texture and versatility. For those following a vegan diet, traditional paneer made from dairy is off the table. 

However, you can still enjoy this delicious ingredient by making your own vegan version at home. Here’s a straightforward guide to making vegan paneer using tofu and a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients

1 block of firm tofu (400 grams)

2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast

2 tablespoons of lemon juice

1 teaspoon of salt

1 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional)

1 teaspoon of onion powder (optional)

1 tablespoon of olive oil (optional, for a richer texture)

Equipment

A clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth

A heavy weight (like a large can or a pot filled with water)

A mixing bowl

A cutting board

A knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu

Start by draining the tofu and pressing out any excess water. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, and place a heavy weight on top. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. This process helps to remove moisture, giving the tofu a firmer texture that’s more similar to traditional paneer.

2. Marinate the Tofu

Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into cubes or your desired shape. In a mixing bowl, combine the nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and olive oil (if using). Mix well to create a marinade.

3. Coat the Tofu

Add the tofu cubes to the bowl and gently toss them until they are evenly coated with the marinade. Let the tofu sit in the marinade for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavours. For a more intense flavour, you can marinate the tofu for several hours or overnight in the fridge.

4. Cook the Tofu

You have a few options for cooking the tofu, depending on the texture you prefer:

Baking: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread the marinated tofu cubes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is golden and slightly crispy on the outside.

Pan-Frying: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a little oil and fry the tofu cubes until they are golden brown on all sides.

Grilling: Skewer the tofu cubes and grill them until they have nice grill marks and are heated through.

5. Use Your Vegan Paneer

Your homemade vegan paneer is now ready to use in your favourite recipes. It can be added to curries, salads, wraps, or enjoyed as a snack.

Tips and Tricks

Firm Tofu: Ensure you use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best texture. Silken tofu will not hold up well in this recipe.

Flavour Variations: Experiment with different marinades to create unique flavours. Try adding curry powder, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs to the marinade.

Storage: Store any leftover vegan paneer in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to a week.

Texture: If you prefer a chewier texture, freeze the tofu before marinating. Freezing and then thawing tofu changes its texture, making it more sponge-like and better at absorbing flavours.

Enjoying Your Vegan Paneer

Vegan paneer can be used in a variety of dishes, just like its dairy counterpart. Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Palak Paneer: Cook the vegan paneer in a creamy spinach sauce for a delicious and nutritious meal.

Vegan Paneer Tikka: Marinate the vegan paneer in a mixture of plant-based yoghurt and spices, then grill or bake until golden.

Vegan Paneer Skewers: Skewer the vegan paneer with vegetables and grill for a tasty starter or side dish.

Vegan Paneer Stir-Fry: Stir-fry the vegan paneer with your favourite vegetables and a splash of soy sauce for a quick and easy meal.

Making vegan paneer at home is a simple and rewarding process. It allows you to enjoy the familiar texture and taste of paneer while adhering to a plant-based diet. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious addition to your vegan cooking repertoire. Enjoy the flavours and satisfaction of homemade vegan paneer!