Tofu and Vegetable Tikka Masala

The preparation time and cooking time for the Tofu and Vegetable Tikka Masala recipe can vary depending on your experience in the kitchen and the specific cooking methods you choose. Here's a rough estimate:

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Preparation Time: Approximately 30 minutes

This includes the time needed to prepare the marinade, marinate the tofu, chop the vegetables, and gather all the ingredients.

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Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes

This includes the time it takes to grill the tofu (2-3 minutes per side), sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger, simmer the sauce, and cook the vegetables until they are tender.

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Please keep in mind that these times are approximate, and actual preparation and cooking times may vary based on your cooking skills, equipment, and specific recipe variations. It's always a good idea to read through the recipe and gather all the ingredients and tools you need before starting to cook, as this can help streamline the cooking process.

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Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, cubed

• 1 cup plain yogurt (use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option)

• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste (blend equal parts fresh ginger and garlic with a little water)

• 1 tablespoon garam masala

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

 

For the Tikka Masala Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk

• 1 tablespoon garam masala

• 1 teaspoon ground paprika

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, etc.), chopped

• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

• Cooked brown rice or naan bread for serving

 

Instructions:

Marinating the Tofu:

1. In a bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and vegetable oil. This will be your marinade.

2. Gently press the tofu between paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut it into cubes and add them to the marinade. Ensure the tofu cubes are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or longer if possible.

3. After marinating, thread the tofu cubes onto skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before threading).

 

Grilling the Tofu:

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush with a little oil to prevent sticking.

2. Grill the tofu skewers for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop grill marks and the tofu is heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.

 

Preparing the Tikka Masala Sauce:

1. In a large skillet or pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.

2. Add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Stir in the garam masala, ground paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to toast the spices.

4. Add the crushed tomatoes and coconut milk. Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Add the chopped mixed vegetables and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

6. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

 

Assembling the Tofu and Vegetable Tikka Masala:

1. Remove the tofu from the skewers and gently stir it into the Tikka Masala sauce.

2. Serve the Tofu and Vegetable Tikka Masala over cooked brown rice or with naan bread.

3. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

 

This Tofu and Vegetable Tikka Masala is a healthy and flavorful Indian-inspired dish that's rich in protein and packed with spices. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of India in this satisfying meal!