Description
A rich and creamy vegan butter chicken made with tofu and a spiced tomato-cashew gravy. This plant-based version of the classic Indian dish is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing tofu)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for coating tofu)
- 1 tablespoon vegan butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked)
- 1 cup water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving
Instructions
- Press the tofu to remove excess water, then cut into cubes and toss with cornstarch.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add tofu and cook until golden and crispy on all sides. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt vegan butter. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and golden.
- Add garlic and ginger, cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in garam masala, turmeric, paprika, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5-10 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Blend soaked cashews with water or broth until smooth. Pour into the skillet and stir to combine.
- Add coconut milk and maple syrup (if using). Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
- Add crispy tofu to the sauce and simmer for another 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate tofu in spices before cooking.
- Soak cashews in hot water for at least 20 minutes if not using a high-speed blender.
- Adjust spice level by increasing or decreasing chili powder.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
