Tofu Tikka Masala
The tikka masala sauce is prepared by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger, then adding diced tomatoes and dairy-free cream to create a luscious and creamy base. A blend of ground spices, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala, is added to infuse the sauce with rich and aromatic flavors.
INGREDIENTS
For the Marinated Tofu:
- 14 oz (400g) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1/2 cup dairy-free yogurt (e.g., coconut yogurt or almond yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Tikka Masala Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup dairy-free cream (e.g., coconut cream or cashew cream)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving
INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare the Marinated Tofu:
In a mixing bowl, combine the dairy-free yogurt, tomato paste, vegetable oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, chili powder, paprika, garam masala, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well.
Add the cubed tofu to the marinade, ensuring that the tofu is well coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer for better flavor.
Preheat your grill, oven broiler, or stovetop grill pan.
Thread the marinated tofu cubes onto skewers if using a grill. If not, you can bake or pan-sear them.
Grill, broil, or cook the tofu until it’s lightly browned and has grill marks or a slightly crispy texture. Set aside.
Prepare the Tikka Masala Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Cook for a minute to toast the spices.
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and dairy-free cream. Stir to combine.
Sprinkle in the garam masala and continue to cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
Combine Tofu and Tikka Masala Sauce:
- Add the grilled tofu cubes to the skillet with the tikka masala sauce. Stir gently to coat the tofu with the sauce.
Serve Tofu Tikka Masala:
Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Serve hot over cooked rice or with naan bread for a flavorful and creamy vegan tofu tikka masala.
TIPS
- Adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of chili powder or using fresh green chilies.
- You can add a splash of lemon juice or lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.
- If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a bit of vegetable broth or water.
NUTRITION VALUE
- Calories: 300-350 (approximate values)
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Fiber: 4-6g
