The Essential Soya Prep
Boil: Place soya nuggets in boiling salted water for 5 minutes until they double in size.
Squeeze: Rinse under cold water and squeeze vigorously to remove all excess liquid. This allows the nuggets to absorb the spices like a sponge.
Method 1: The Pressure Cooker Curry
Blend: Mix yogurt, cashews, ginger, and all ground spices in a blender until smooth.
Temper: Heat oil in a pressure cooker with whole spices and hing.
Cook: Add the blended mixture, soya nuggets, and 1.5 cups hot water. Pressure cook for 2–3 whistles (approx. 10 mins).
Finish: Garnish with dried fenugreek (Kasuri Methi) and fresh cilantro.
Method 2: Soya "Pakora" Kadhi
The Fritters: Pulse boiled nuggets into coarse granules. Mix with chickpea flour, onions, and greens. Drop spoonfuls into hot oil and fry until crispy.
The Gravy: Whisk yogurt, chickpea flour, and 4 cups of water. Simmer on low heat with tempered spices for 15 minutes.
Combine: Add fritters to the gravy 5 minutes before serving to let them soak.
Method 3: Smoky Tava Masala (Stovetop)
The Char: Hold dry coconut over a gas flame until the edges are black and smoky. Blend with garlic and ginger into a thick paste.
The Sauté: Sauté onions in a skillet until golden. Add the charred paste and grated tomato; cook until oil separates.
The Sear: Toss in soya nuggets and kokum/tamarind. Stir-fry on high heat for 3 minutes to get a slightly charred, dry coating.