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Tofu Tikka Masala

Vegan Masala Recipe

Tofu Tikka Masala

Charred tofu tikka meets a silky tomato, cashew and spice sauce in this restaurant-style vegan curry. Smoky edges and a rich gravy make it feel properly special.

Recipe by How our recipes are created

90 minPrep: 60 minCook: 30 minServes 4North IndianVegan
tofu tikka masalarich gravynorth indianchickpeas

From the kitchen

What to expect

The char on the tofu is not merely decorative—it gives the creamy sauce contrast and savoury depth. Let the marinade cling, cook the pieces until bronzed and fold them into the gravy near the end.

Serving idea

Best served simply

Serve with basmati rice, roti, or naan, with sliced onion and lemon on the side.

Useful equipment

Tools that make this recipe easier

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Heavy-bottomed cooking pot

Steady heat helps rice, dal and slow-simmered sauces cook evenly without catching on the base.

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Vegan Masala recommends

Electric spice grinder

Freshly ground whole spices give masalas a brighter aroma than long-opened ground spices.

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Cook the recipe

Method

  1. 1

    In a bowl, mix 3 tbsp plant yoghurt, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp chilli powder, 1 tsp garam masala, 1/2 tsp turmeric, and 1/2 tsp salt.

  2. 2

    Add 200 g cubed tofu and 1 diced bell pepper. Toss well and leave to marinate for 1 hour.

  3. 3

    Bake the marinated tofu and vegetables at 200°C for 15–20 minutes, or pan-fry them until the edges are lightly charred.

  4. 4

    Blend 1 large finely chopped onion and 2 medium chopped tomatoes to a smooth purée.

  5. 5

    Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan and cook the onion paste until it turns golden and loses its raw smell.

  6. 6

    Add 4 cloves minced garlic and cook for a few seconds, just until fragrant.

  7. 7

    Stir in the tomato purée and cook until it thickens and the oil begins to separate from the masala.

  8. 8

    Add 2 tbsp fresh coriander, 2 tsp coriander powder, 1 tsp cumin powder, 1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves, and the remaining 1/2 tsp salt. Cook for 1 minute.

  9. 9

    Add 1 cup water and simmer until the gravy has body and the raw tomato taste has gone.

  10. 10

    Stir in 100 ml oat cream and 1 tin drained chickpeas, then add the baked tofu tikka pieces.

  11. 11

    Simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. Finish with 1 tsp sugar if needed, then serve hot.

  12. 12

    Scatter over a little extra fresh coriander if you like before serving.

Gather everything first

Ingredients

  • 3 tbsp unsweetened plant yoghurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp chilli powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp salt, divided
  • 200 g firm tofu, cubed
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped
  • 2 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves
  • 1 cup water
  • 100 ml oat cream
  • 1 tin chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional)

A few useful notes

Notes

  • Cook the masala until it changes colour and the oil starts to show at the edges; that step gives the gravy its depth.
  • Add the yoghurt over low heat and stir gently so it does not split.
  • If the gravy thickens too much after standing, loosen it with a splash of water when reheating.
  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and usually taste more settled the next day.
  • For a deeper finish, char the tofu and peppers a little more in the oven or pan before adding them to the sauce.

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