If you're craving a rich, creamy, and satisfying Indian-inspired dish, this Easy Vegan Chicken Tikka Masala is about to be your new go-to meal! With extra firm tofu marinated in aromatic spices and a luscious tikka masala sauce, this dish is packed with bold flavors. Serve it with basmati rice or vegan naan for a comforting meal that tastes just like your favorite Indian restaurant dish! 🍛✨
Tikka Masala is a flavorful and creamy Indian-inspired dish, typically made with yogurt marinated and grilled protein (like chicken, paneer, or tofu) in a rich, spiced tomato-based sauce. The sauce usually includes tomato paste, garam masala, fresh ginger, garlic, coconut milk or cream, and other aromatic spices, giving it a deep, warm flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold & Flavorful – Made with garam masala, fresh ginger, and coconut milk, every bite is packed with warmth and spice.
- Vegan & Protein-Packed – Thanks to tofu, this dish is a satisfying, plant-based take on a classic.
- Easy to Make – With simple steps and basic ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready in no time!
- Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch ahead and store it in an airtight container for easy meals throughout the week.
Other Curries To Love! ❤️
- Mushroom Zucchini Coconut Madras Curry
- Vegan Abiko Curry Recipe
- Harissa Lemon Chickpea Curry With Potato
- Easy Chickpea Ssamjang Curry With Fluffy Quinoa
- Vegan Cheesy Chana Masala
What You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- Extra firm tofu – The perfect meat alternative that holds up well to marinating and cooking.
- Garam masala or curry powder – A blend of warm, aromatic spices that define this dish.
- Tomato paste & tomato sauce – Gives the sauce a deep, rich base.
- Coconut milk – Adds creaminess and balances the spices.
- Vegan cashew yogurt – Used to marinate the tofu for extra flavor and tenderness.
- Coconut sugar or maple syrup – A touch of sweetness to balance the heat.
- Olive oil – For cooking the tofu and sautéing the aromatics.
- Fresh ginger & garlic – Essential for an authentic, fragrant sauce.
- Fresh cilantro – A bright, fresh garnish.
- Lemon juice – Enhances the flavors with a bit of tang.
- Basmati rice or naan – The perfect accompaniment!
Let’s Get Cooking!
- Press & Marinate the Tofu – Press the extra firm tofu using a tofu press or paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut into tofu cubes and marinate with vegan cashew yogurt, garam masala, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Let sit for at least 15-20 minutes.
- Broil or Grill the Tofu – Place marinated tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Broil or grill for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Sauté Aromatics & Spices – In a large pan over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onion, fresh ginger, and garlic for 2-3 minutes.
- Make the Sauce – Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, and garam masala. Let cook for a couple of minutes before adding coconut milk, coconut sugar, and a splash of water.
- Simmer & Combine – Add the broiled/grilled tofu pieces to the sauce. Let simmer on medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or vegan naan. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Want extra creaminess? Use coconut cream instead of coconut milk.
- Spice it up! Add a pinch of red chili powder for more heat.
- Swap the tofu – Try this with cauliflower or chickpeas for a fun twist!
How to Store Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop with a little oat milk to bring back the creamy texture.
It’s your Turn!!!!
This vegan tofu tikka masala is a delicious, easy-to-make twist on a classic Indian dish. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a longtime fan, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Hope you love it as much as I do! 😊🍛
Happy cooking! 🔥
Easy Vegan Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Tofu)
If you're craving a rich, creamy, and satisfying Indian-inspired dish, this Easy Vegan Chicken Tikka Masala is about to be your new go-to meal! With extra firm tofu marinated in aromatic spices and a luscious tikka masala sauce, this dish is packed with bold flavors. Serve it with basmati rice or vegan naan for a comforting meal that tastes just like your favorite Indian restaurant dish!
Ingredients
- 1 block extra firm tofu
- 2 teaspoons garam masala or curry powder
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste & 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup coconut milk
- ½ cup vegan cashew yogurt
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger & 3 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Basmati rice or naan – The perfect accompaniment!
Instructions
- Press & Marinate the Tofu – Press the extra firm tofu using a tofu press or paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut into tofu cubes and marinate with vegan cashew yogurt, garam masala, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Let sit for at least 15-20 minutes.
- Broil or Grill the Tofu – Place marinated tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Broil or grill for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Sauté Aromatics & Spices – In a large pan over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onion, fresh ginger, and garlic for 2-3 minutes.
- Make the Sauce – Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, and garam masala. Let cook for a couple of minutes before adding coconut milk, coconut sugar, and a splash of water.
- Simmer & Combine – Add the broiled/grilled tofu pieces to the sauce. Let simmer on medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or vegan naan. Enjoy!
