Saucy Tofu With Garam Masala

Garam masala is a beloved South Asian spice mix used to flavor a wide variety of dishes, from curries to pulaos. While you can buy garam masala premade, I wanted to showcase just how special the deep warming flavors of a good-quality homemade garam masala can be in a vegetarian dish. Here pieces of tofu are coated in cornstarch and pan-fried until they develop a golden brown craggy crust that's begging to soak up all of the glossy garam masala sauce. Fresh and vegetal green bell pepper works well with the sweet and tangy sauce, but zucchini, green beans, or sugar snap peas would work just as well. Serve the tofu over warm rice or quinoa. —Rachel Gurjar