Tofu with Indian sauce, black lentils, and buckwheat

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Tofu with Indian sauce served with black lentils and buckwheat in a bowl.

Tofu with Indian Sauce, Black Lentils, and Buckwheat

Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that’s packed with flavor? Tofu with Indian sauce, black lentils, and buckwheat is a fantastic option! This dish combines the creamy goodness of tofu with a rich, spicy sauce, and serves it over hearty lentils and buckwheat. It’s not just satisfying—it’s also a colorful and aromatic dish that’s sure to impress at your dinner table. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Indian cuisine or trying something new, this recipe will leave you feeling delighted.

What Goes into This Tofu with Indian Sauce, Black Lentils, and Buckwheat

Gather your ingredients to create this fulfilling dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 200 g fresh tomatoes or tomato puree (about 7 oz)
  • 100 g pitted dates (about 3.5 oz)
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 cm fresh ginger (about 0.4 in)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • Red and green fresh chili peppers to taste
  • 2 teaspoons tamarind paste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  • 200 g herb tofu (about 7 oz)
  • 80 g black lentils (about 2.8 oz)
  • 80 g buckwheat (about 2.8 oz)
  • Olive oil for frying
  • 1 clove garlic (for frying)
  • Lemon zest for added flavor

Step-by-Step Tofu with Indian Sauce Recipe

Follow these instructions to whip up your tasty tofu dish:

  1. Start by peeling the tomatoes: Place them in boiling water for a few seconds to loosen the skin. Remove the skin, chop the flesh, and discard the seeds.
  2. In a pan, toast the cumin seeds until they become fragrant, then transfer them to a mortar and pestle to crush them.
  3. Add ground coriander, garlic, ginger, and salt to the crushed cumin. Blend these ingredients until you form a paste.
  4. In a blender, mix the tomato flesh with the spice paste, pitted dates, tamarind paste, and chili peppers. Blend briefly to keep some texture.
  5. Pour the blended sauce back into the pan and simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. Let it cool, then stir in chopped parsley.
  6. Cook the black lentils according to package instructions and set aside.
  7. In a similar fashion, prepare the buckwheat and also set aside once cooked.
  8. In the same pan, heat some olive oil, then add lemon zest and crushed garlic. Sauté until the garlic becomes aromatic.
  9. Add the cooked lentils and buckwheat to the garlic and lemon mixture. Stir well to combine everything nicely.
  10. Dice the herb tofu and cook it in salted water for two minutes.
  11. To serve, first place a generous amount of the lentil and buckwheat mix on a plate. Top it off with the tofu, and drizzle the Indian sauce over everything. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of chopped chilies for extra spice.

Serving Tofu with Indian Sauce, Black Lentils, and Buckwheat

To make a beautiful presentation with your Tofu with Indian sauce, black lentils, and buckwheat, layer the lentils and buckwheat side by side on a vibrant plate. Tofu sits attractively on top, soaking up all the flavors of the delicious sauce. You might want to serve this dish with some warm naan or a side of steamed veggies to enhance the experience. For drinks, a refreshing cucumber-mint lemonade pairs perfectly with it.

Helpful Tricks for Tofu with Indian Sauce, Black Lentils, and Buckwheat

  • Spice it Up: If you enjoy heat, feel free to add more chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
  • Get Creative: You can substitute black lentils with other lentil varieties, such as green or brown lentils, if that’s what you have on hand.
  • Chop and Change: Add other veggies like spinach or bell peppers to the lentil and buckwheat mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

Tofu with Indian Sauce, Black Lentils, and Buckwheat FAQs

What type of tofu should I use?
Herb tofu is great for this recipe, but you can use firm tofu or silken tofu based on your preference.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Just reheat before serving.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Store each component separately for the best texture, then combine when ready to eat.

Tofu with Indian sauce, black lentils, and buckwheat is a dish bursting with flavor and nutrition. Give it a try, and enjoy a delightful culinary journey!