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

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • In a large bowl, mix together all marinade ingredients.

  • Pat tofu dry and break into bite-sized chunks. Toss gently in the marinade to coat thoroughly.

  • Arrange tofu in a single layer on the baking sheet.

  • Bake for 30 minutes until golden and slightly chewy. No need to flip.

2. Prepare the Masala Sauce

  • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

  • Add chopped onions and sauté for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.

  • Stir in ginger, garlic, coriander, cumin, garam masala, and red pepper flakes.

  • Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

  • Add tomato purée, salt, and black pepper. Cook on medium-low for 5 minutes.

  • Pour in water and cream. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  • Optional: add sugar for extra balance.

3. Combine & Serve

  • Stir the baked tofu into the masala sauce. Let simmer for a few minutes to absorb flavors.

  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—more salt, lemon juice, or sugar if desired.

  • Serve hot with rice or naan. Garnish with fresh cilantro, yogurt, lemon wedges, or pickled onions for extra brightness.