Tofu Tikka Masala

Tofu Tikka Masala

Rich, comforting, and protein-packed—this Indian-inspired dish features marinated tofu baked to perfection, then simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce.

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 min
• Cook Time: 25 min
• Baking Time: 30 min
• Total Time: ~40–45 min
• Cuisine: Indian | Course: Main

Ingredients

For the Tofu Marinade

• 16 oz firm tofu
• ½ cup Greek-style yogurt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 tsp garam masala (or curry powder)
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes

For the Masala Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• 2 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 cups tomato purée
• 1 tsp salt
• Fresh ground black pepper (2 twists)
• 2 cups water
• ½ cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)
• 2 tsp sugar (optional)

For Serving (Optional)

• Basmati rice or naan
• Fresh cilantro
• Yogurt or dairy-free alternative
• Lemon wedges
• Pickled red onions

Instructions

1. Bake the Tofu

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together all marinade ingredients.
3. Pat tofu dry and break into bite-sized chunks. Toss gently in the marinade to coat thoroughly.
4. Arrange tofu in a single layer on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 30 minutes until golden and slightly chewy. No need to flip.

2. Prepare the Masala Sauce

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in ginger, garlic, coriander, cumin, garam masala, and red pepper flakes.
4. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add tomato purée, salt, and black pepper. Cook on medium-low for 5 minutes.
6. Pour in water and cream. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Optional: add sugar for extra balance.

3. Combine & Serve

1. Stir the baked tofu into the masala sauce. Let simmer for a few minutes to absorb flavors.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—more salt, lemon juice, or sugar if desired.
3. Serve hot with rice or naan. Garnish with fresh cilantro, yogurt, lemon wedges, or pickled onions for extra brightness.