Description
This Easy Vegan Butter Chicken recipe uses tofu as a plant-based alternative to traditional chicken, simmered in a rich and flavorful coconut milk and tomato sauce infused with Indian spices. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a comforting, healthy, and delicious vegan meal perfect for dinner served alongside rice, quinoa, or naan.
Ingredients
Tofu
- 350g block firm or extra firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ tbsp avocado or olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 3 large cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tbsp finely grated fresh ginger (or 1 tsp powdered ginger)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 heaped tsp turmeric
- 1 heaped tsp coriander
- ¾ cup crushed tomatoes
- ¾ cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tsp soy sauce or tamari
To Serve
- Brown rice, quinoa, or naan
- Cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Broiler: Preheat your oven’s broiler (or grill if you’re in Europe) to prepare for cooking the tofu.
- Prepare Tofu: Place tofu cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if desired. Toss the tofu in ½ tablespoon of avocado or olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper.
- Broil Tofu: Broil the tofu for 10-12 minutes, until the pieces start turning golden. Flip the tofu over, re-season with salt and pepper, then broil for an additional 5-6 minutes until golden brown all over.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the tofu cooks, heat 2 tablespoons coconut oil in a large frying pan or pot over medium heat. Add crushed garlic and grated ginger and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Add Spices: Stir in turmeric, coriander, and garam masala. Cook the spices with the aromatics for about one minute to release their flavors.
- Simmer Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, coconut milk, and soy sauce or tamari to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes. Stir occasionally, adding a little water if the sauce starts to stick.
- Combine Tofu and Sauce: Add the broiled tofu to the sauce and simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
- Serve: Serve the vegan butter chicken hot with brown rice, quinoa, or naan. Garnish optionally with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for a bright finish.
Notes
- Use firm or extra firm tofu to ensure it holds shape during cooking.
- Broiling tofu gives it a crispy texture that contrasts well with the creamy sauce.
- Adjust the spice levels by adding more garam masala or turmeric if preferred.
- You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version.
- If the sauce thickens too much during simmering, add a splash of water to maintain consistency.
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges brighten the dish and add fresh flavor notes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: Indian
