Tofu Tikka Masala

Elevate your palate with vegan splendor!

tofu tikka masala

Savor the vibrant and aromatic essence of a classic Tikka Masala with a vegan twist. Using tofu instead of traditional chicken, this dish delivers a substantial, protein-filled meal that’s bound to please both vegans and non-vegans.

AuthorMarvelDifficultyIntermediate

Yields4 Servings
Prep Time20 minsCook Time30 minsTotal Time50 mins

 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
 2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
 1 onion, finely diced
 3 garlic cloves, minced
 1-inch ginger, grated
 2 tbsp tomato paste
 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
 1 cup coconut milk or almond milk
 2 tsp garam masala
 1 tsp turmeric
 1 tsp cumin
 1 tsp paprika
 ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
 Salt to taste
 Fresh cilantro for garnish

1

In a large skillet or pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry until they are golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the onions until translucent.

3

Add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for another 2 minutes until aromatic. Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring the onions are well-coated.

4

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, followed by the coconut or almond milk. Mix well.

5

Add the garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

6

Return the fried tofu cubes to the skillet, ensuring they are well-coated with the masala sauce. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes.

7

Check for seasoning and adjust if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Ideal with basmati rice or naan bread.

Helpful Hints & Recommendations:

Tofu: Ensure you press the tofu adequately to eliminate extra moisture. This step is pivotal for enhanced flavor absorption and a more robust texture.

Heat: Modify the cayenne pepper to align with your heat tolerance. If spicy isn't your style, feel free to skip it.

Creaminess: Desire a silkier consistency? Introduce a touch of vegan yogurt or cashew cream to the masala mix.

Storing Solutions: This meal remains fresh in the fridge for around 4 days. Interestingly, its taste often deepens and improves with time, making leftovers a treat.

Pairing: Complement your Tofu Tikka Masala with vegan cucumber raita and a squeeze of fresh lemon for a harmonious meal experience.

Ingredients

 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
 2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
 1 onion, finely diced
 3 garlic cloves, minced
 1-inch ginger, grated
 2 tbsp tomato paste
 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
 1 cup coconut milk or almond milk
 2 tsp garam masala
 1 tsp turmeric
 1 tsp cumin
 1 tsp paprika
 ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
 Salt to taste
 Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions

1

In a large skillet or pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry until they are golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the onions until translucent.

3

Add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for another 2 minutes until aromatic. Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring the onions are well-coated.

4

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, followed by the coconut or almond milk. Mix well.

5

Add the garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

6

Return the fried tofu cubes to the skillet, ensuring they are well-coated with the masala sauce. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes.

7

Check for seasoning and adjust if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Ideal with basmati rice or naan bread.

Tofu Tikka Masala