Textual Chef

Vegan Tofu Tikka Masala

Pan-seared tofu simmered in a deeply spiced, creamy tomato coconut milk sauce that mirrors the rich warmth of classic tikka masala — all without any dairy.

50 minMediumServes 4410 cal/serving

IndianDinnerStovetopVeganVegetarianHigh ProteinDairy-FreeEgg-FreeGluten-Free

Ingredients

  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed, cubed
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1 yellow onion, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cook 1 cup rinsed basmati rice according to package directions.

  2. 2

    Press 14 oz pressed, cubed extra-firm tofu between paper towels for 10 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and ground turmeric.

  3. 3

    Heat half the 2 tbsp coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear tofu in a single layer for 3-4 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to a plate.

  4. 4

    Heat remaining coconut oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely diced yellow onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add 4 cloves minced garlic cloves and 1 tsp grated fresh ginger; cook 1 minute.

  5. 5

    Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste, 2 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp ground turmeric, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper. Cook 2 minutes until fragrant.

  6. 6

    Add 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes and 1 can full-fat coconut milk. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes until thickened. Season with 1 tsp salt.

  7. 7

    Return tofu to the skillet and simmer for 5 more minutes. Serve over basmati rice garnished with 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro.

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