Malai Tofu Curry – Vegan Malai Paneer

14 ounce (396.89 g) firm or extra firm tofu pressed for 15

1/2 teaspoon garam masala

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 tsp cornstarch or tapioca starch

1 teaspoon oil

1 tablespoon vegan butter or oil

1 1/2 cups thinly sliced onion

4 cloves garlic minced or 2 teaspoons paste

1 inch ginger minced or 2 teaspoons ginger paste

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom

1/2 teaspoon cayenne

2 bay leaves

a good pinch of cinnamon

1/4 cup (60 ml) tomato paste

1/2 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt divided

15 ounce can (425.24 g) full-fat coconut milk reserve 2 to

3 tablespoons almond flour

cilantro and pepper flakes for garnish