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paneer tikka masala
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5 from 6 votes

Tofu Tikka Masala with Sauteed Onions

A flavorful, spicy, creamy tomato gravy with sauteed onions and tofu.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Danielle

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil divided
  • 14 oz extra firm tofu or protein of choice
  • 6 cardamom pods
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 yellow onions medium
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 6 garlic cloves finely chopped
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • 6 tablespoons plain yogurt (use plant based yogurt to make this vegan)
  • 6 tablespoons heavy cream (use plant based cream to make this vegan)
  • Basmati rice for serving

Instructions

  • Cut the tofu into cubes (or substitute protein of choice here).
  • Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to a large nonstick skillet and heat over medium heat.  Add the tofu in a single layer.  Cook for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown.  Move the tofu to a bowl and place the pan back on the stove.
  • Add an additional 2 tablespoons oil to the pan and heat over medium-high heat.  When hot, put in the cardamom, cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, and bay leaves.  Stir for 1 minute to allow flavors to develop, then add the onions, garlic, and ginger.  Reduce heat to medium and cook until onions start turning brown, about 10 minutes.
  • Add the tomatoes, salt, and cayenne.  Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Remove cover and add garam masala, yogurt, and cream.  Stir gently for about 5 minutes to reduce the liquid.  Remove the cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and bay leaves before serving.  Serve with basmati rice or naan.